Name: Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/4 lbs ground beef (90% lean); 2 teaspoons olive oil; 1/2 cup onion, finely diced; 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon; 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 tablespoon yellow mustard; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 3/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1 egg; 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes; 1/4 cup ketchup; 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional); Cooking spray; 2 tablespoons of water

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If you’re anything like me, comfort food is the heart and soul of cozy dinners—and that’s exactly why this Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites. It’s like taking all the best parts of a cheeseburger—the juicy beef, melty cheddar, smoky bacon, and tangy ketchup—and shaping it into a warm, satisfying meatloaf. Whether you’re feeding family or just craving a hearty meal that feels like a hug on a plate, this recipe hits all the right notes.

I love making this for weeknight dinners when I want something quick but still special. It’s easy to prep and comes together faster than you’d expect, plus it’s forgiving if you want to swap in your favorite cheese or add a little extra seasoning. Trust me, once you make this Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe plays a simple but important role—the beef brings the savory base, the bacon adds irresistible smokiness, and the cheddar gives that gooey cheeseburger touch. Here’s a little about what to look for when you shop.

Ground beef: I use 90% lean for the best balance between flavor and fat, which keeps the loaf juicy without being greasy.
Cooking spray: To keep things from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Olive oil: For sautéing the onions evenly and adding depth to the flavor.
Onion (finely diced): Cooking these until golden brings a subtle sweetness that complements the beef perfectly.
Cooked and crumbled bacon: Adds that smoky punch you expect from a cheeseburger but with a little extra crunch.
Panko breadcrumbs: These help bind everything together without weighing it down—plus they keep the texture light.
Yellow mustard: A classic cheeseburger condiment that brightens the whole loaf with tangy notes.
Worcestershire sauce: Brings umami richness and a savory depth that ties all the flavors.
Salt and pepper: Essential to season the beef and bring out all those tasty layers.
Egg: Helps hold everything together so your meatloaf slices cleanly.
Cheddar cheese (small cubes): Melts in the middle for that melty cheeseburger experience in every bite.
Ketchup: The perfect topping to finish off the loaf with a sweet and tangy glaze.
Chopped parsley (optional): Adds a touch of color and freshness if you want to fancy it up.

Variations

I love how flexible this Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe is. Over time, I’ve tried a few tweaks to make it my own or to fit what’s in my fridge, and trust me, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes!

Turkey or chicken version: I once swapped ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter twist—just add a bit more seasoning since turkey can be mild.
Different cheeses: If you’re a fan of sharper or creamier flavors, try Swiss or pepper jack instead of cheddar. It changes the vibe but stays delicious.
Spicy kick: Toss in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne in the mixture for a little heat that wakes up your taste buds.
Herbs and veggies: Sometimes I add finely diced bell pepper or fresh herbs like thyme to brighten the flavor profile.

How to Make Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe

Step 1: Soften the onions to build flavor

Start by heating your olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and let them cook slowly for about 4 to 5 minutes until they turn golden and soft. This caramelizing step is key because it mellow out the onions’ sharpness and adds a sweet depth—don’t rush this part! Then, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the yellow mustard and Worcestershire sauce, letting those flavors mingle before adding to the meat mixture.

Step 2: Combine the ingredients gently but thoroughly

In a large bowl, toss together the ground beef, cooked bacon, panko breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, egg, water, and your onion-mustard mixture. Add your cubed cheddar cheese last to keep it from melting in the mixing process. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to mix everything evenly, but be careful not to overwork the mixture—it’s tempting to squish it all together tightly, but a gentle touch helps keep your meatloaf tender.

Step 3: Shape and bake your mini meatloaves

Form the mixture into four equal meatloaves on your foil-lined, cooking-sprayed baking sheet. I find making smaller individual loaves helps them cook more evenly and serve quite neatly. Spread about one tablespoon of ketchup over each one for that signature cheeseburger glaze. Pop them into a preheated 350°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes—test for doneness by ensuring the center is no longer pink, or use a meat thermometer aiming for about 160°F internally.

How to Serve Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe

A rectangular black baking dish holds a layered meatloaf with three visible layers. The bottom layer is a thick, dense ground meat with a browned crust. Above this is a melted cheese layer that is bright yellow and creamy, covering most of the meat. On top, several slices of crispy bacon lay side by side, adding a reddish-brown color and a crunchy texture. The dish sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I usually sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness—makes it feel a bit more special and less like your everyday meatloaf. Sometimes, if I have some handy, a few thin slices of dill pickles on the side give it that unmistakable cheeseburger vibe that brings a little tang to every bite.

Side Dishes

You can’t go wrong with classic sides like crispy oven fries or a simple green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette. I’ve also served it alongside roasted veggies or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up every bit of those meaty, cheesy flavors. In my family, crunchy coleslaw always makes an appearance for a refreshing crunch that balances the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist at dinner parties, I’ve shaped the meat mixture into mini muffin tins for cheeseburger meatloaf cupcakes—easy individual servings that look adorable and guest-friendly. You could even serve each with a mini slider bun for a playful presentation. It’s perfect for casual gatherings and makes the whole cheeseburger concept feel extra festive and shareable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After dinner, I usually let the meatloaf cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or popping leftovers into airtight containers. Stored in the fridge, these meatloaves keep well for up to 3 days and still taste great warmed up. It’s a lifesaver for quick lunches or easy dinners when you’re short on time.

Freezing

This recipe freezes wonderfully, which is something I appreciate when meal prepping. Just shape the individual meatloaves but don’t bake them yet—wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake fresh—it’s almost like homemade all over again!

Reheating

To reheat, I like warming leftover meatloaf in a low oven (around 300°F) wrapped in foil to keep it moist, for about 10-15 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works fine—just cover it with a damp paper towel to avoid drying out. Either way, make sure it’s heated through without overcooking, so those cheesy pockets stay lovely and gooey.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in this Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe?

Absolutely! While cheddar is classic and melts beautifully, feel free to substitute cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a smoky gouda depending on your preference. Just cut into small cubes so the cheese melts evenly throughout the meatloaf.
Is it necessary to cook the bacon before adding it to the meatloaf?

Yes, cooking and crumbling the bacon first ensures it has that smoky flavor and crisp texture without adding excess grease to the meatloaf. Raw bacon won’t cook evenly inside, so pre-cooking is key for the best results.
Can I prepare this Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe ahead of time?

You can definitely assemble the meatloaf a day in advance. Just shape the loaves and cover them tightly with plastic wrap, keeping them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This saves time on busy evenings and still delivers fresh-baked flavor.
What’s the best way to check if the meatloaf is done?

The safest and easiest method is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the center to make sure it’s no longer pink and the juices run clear.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. This simple swap keeps the texture and flavor intact, perfect for gluten-sensitive eaters.

Final Thoughts

This Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it combines nostalgia with ease. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but tasty enough to impress fussier eaters or guests. Whenever I serve it, there’s a little smile of delight around the table, and that always makes the effort worthwhile. I hope you give it a try—you might just find it becoming a new family favorite right in your home!

Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe