BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf: A Comfort Food Favorite with a Smoky Twist
When you think of classic comfort food, meatloaf probably comes to mind. But what if we took that traditional dish and gave it a smoky, cheesy, and bacon-packed upgrade? Introducing the BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf—a juicy, hearty, and flavor-loaded take on your favorite diner-style burger. Imagine all the best parts of a BBQ bacon cheeseburger (yes, including that smoky BBQ sauce and melty cheese!) baked into a savory meatloaf that’s perfect for dinner any night of the week.
This recipe is a household favorite because it’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat. Plus, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. Each slice delivers a bold combination of smoky bacon, tangy BBQ sauce, and gooey cheddar cheese, all wrapped up in a tender meatloaf.
Be sure to hit that follow button for more recipes like this one. Special thanks to ChefManiac for inspiring creative spins on traditional comfort foods!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is everything you love about a backyard cookout—bacon, BBQ sauce, and gooey cheese—brought indoors in the form of a comforting baked dish. It’s the ultimate fusion of a cheeseburger and meatloaf.
Not only is it packed with flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this savory meatloaf ready to bake, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or a hearty weekend dinner. Pair it with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a simple salad for a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Meatloaf Fun Fact
Did you know that meatloaf dates back to ancient Rome? While the modern American version gained popularity during the Great Depression as a way to stretch ingredients, it has since evolved into a beloved comfort food. This version takes inspiration from the classic cheeseburger, creating a fun and flavorful twist that’s perfect for today’s table.
How to Make BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef 🥩
- ½ cup cooked bacon, chopped 🥓
- ½ cup breadcrumbs 🍞
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for topping) 🍯
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided) 🧀
- 1 egg 🥚
- Salt and pepper, to taste 🧂
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your meatloaf bakes evenly. - Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped bacon, breadcrumbs, BBQ sauce, egg, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. - Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and shape it into a loaf. The loaf should be compact but not overly packed, as this helps it cook evenly. - Add Toppings:
Spread a layer of BBQ sauce over the top of the loaf for extra smoky flavor. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top, reserving the rest for later. - Bake:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). If you’re unsure, use a meat thermometer to check. - Top with More Cheese:
During the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top of the meatloaf and let it melt for a cheesy, gooey finish. - Let It Rest:
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This step ensures the juices redistribute, giving you a tender and moist meatloaf. - Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the meatloaf into thick pieces and serve warm. Don’t forget to add an extra drizzle of BBQ sauce for that smoky-sweet kick!
Recipe Tips and Variations
- Cheese Options: While cheddar is classic, you can use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses for a unique twist.
- BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce to customize the flavor—sweet, smoky, or spicy!
- Add Veggies: Mix in some finely diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to add extra texture and flavor.
- Make It Spicy: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
- Turkey Option: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter version of this meatloaf.
What to Serve with BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
This meatloaf is hearty and flavorful on its own, but pairing it with the right sides takes it to the next level. Here are some ideas:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are the perfect complement to the smoky and tangy flavors of the meatloaf.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for a lighter, veggie-packed side dish.
- Mac and Cheese: Double down on the cheese with a side of creamy mac and cheese.
- Cornbread: A slice of warm, buttery cornbread pairs wonderfully with the BBQ flavors.
- Coleslaw: Add a refreshing crunch with a side of tangy coleslaw.
Final Thoughts
This BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food mashup, perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or treating yourself to a hearty meal. It’s smoky, cheesy, and packed with bacon—what more could you ask for? Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting friends for a cozy gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.
If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out in the comments below! Did you put your own twist on it? Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and follow me for more delicious meal ideas!
BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe: A Smoky Twist on Classic Comfort Food
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (plus more for topping)
- 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, BBQ sauce, crumbled bacon, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
- Spread additional BBQ sauce on top of the meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
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