Name: Cheeseburger Meatloaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lb ground beef (80/20); 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 large eggs; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided); 6 slices cooked bacon (chopped and divided); 1 small onion (finely chopped); 2 tablespoons ketchup; 1 tablespoon yellow mustard; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

This Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a bold twist on the classic comfort food you know and love. It’s everything you love about a juicy cheeseburger—beefy, cheesy, bacon-loaded goodness—all baked into a hearty meatloaf. The top is drenched in melty cheddar and crisp bacon, making every slice a rich, savory bite.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or even tucked into a sandwich bun. It’s a crowd-pleaser for kids, guests, and anyone who can’t resist a cheeseburger upgrade.

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

For a juicy and flavorful meatloaf, go with 80/20 ground beef. This ratio provides enough fat to keep the meatloaf tender and rich without becoming greasy. If you want a leaner option, 85/15 also works—just be careful not to overbake, or it may dry out.

Ingredients for the Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Ground beef (80/20): The heart of this dish, giving the meatloaf that juicy burger texture.
Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meat together while keeping it tender.
Eggs: Essential for structure and moisture.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, it delivers that signature cheeseburger flavor.
Cooked bacon: Adds smoky crunch to both the inside and top of the loaf.
Onion: Finely chopped for sweetness and depth.
Ketchup + mustard: For that nostalgic burger tang.
Worcestershire sauce: A little umami boost.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to tie everything together.

How To Make the Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan. Cook the bacon ahead of time and let it cool. Then, chop it into bite-sized pieces. Grate your cheddar and finely dice the onion.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Base

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped onion, half of the shredded cheddar, half of the cooked bacon, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix until just combined—don’t overmix or the loaf can turn dense.

Step 3: Shape and Bake

Form the mixture into a loaf shape on your baking sheet or press it into your prepared loaf pan. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 4: Add the Toppings

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and sprinkle the remaining cheddar and bacon evenly on top. Return it to the oven for 5-7 more minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and makes for cleaner cuts. Garnish with parsley if you’d like, and serve warm!

How to Serve and Store Cheeseburger Meatloaf

This meatloaf shines when served with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted green beans, or even buttery corn on the cob. For a fun twist, try slicing leftovers and making sandwiches with toasted buns and extra cheese.

To store, let the meatloaf cool completely. Wrap slices tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes beautifully—just wrap individual slices and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

You can substitute crushed crackers, panko, or even rolled oats. Just make sure they’re finely crushed for a smooth texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it in the pan, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when you’re ready.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack can work well if you want to change up the flavor.

What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?

Soy sauce with a touch of balsamic vinegar is a good substitute for that savory depth.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Not in its original form due to breadcrumbs and ketchup. But you can easily swap in almond flour and sugar-free ketchup to make it low-carb.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Sure can! Ground turkey works great—just note it may be slightly drier, so don’t skip the cheese and bacon to keep it flavorful.

Want More Beef Dinner Ideas?

If this Cheeseburger Meatloaf hit the spot, you’ll want to keep these other hearty meals in your rotation:

One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta: A rich, garlicky pasta dish that’s comforting and easy.
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes: Let the slow cooker do the work for these melt-in-your-mouth bites.
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup: Perfect for cooler nights, this soup is pure comfort.
The Best Beef Stir Fry: Quick and colorful, packed with flavor and veggies.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce: Cheesy, meaty, and ultra-satisfying.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s always on hand when cravings strike.

And don’t forget to tag me when you try it out! Did you switch up the cheese? Add some heat? Drop your twist in the comments—I love hearing how you make these meals your own.

✨ Follow along for more daily recipe inspo over on my Pinterest: Life with Jam

Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Cheeseburger Meatloaf takes your favorite burger flavors—beef, cheddar, and bacon—and bakes them into a comforting, sliceable dinner. It’s juicy, cheesy, and perfect for busy weeknights or Sunday suppers.

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease a loaf pan.

2. Cook bacon in advance and let it cool, then chop into small pieces. Grate the cheddar and dice the onion.

3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped onion, half the cheddar, half the bacon, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined.

4. Form into a loaf on the prepared baking sheet or press into loaf pan. Bake for 40–45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

5. Remove from oven and top with the remaining cheese and bacon. Return to oven for another 5–7 minutes until cheese is melted.

6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.