Cheeseburger Meatloaf

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If you’re like me and love comfort food that hits the nostalgic sweet spot and delivers on flavor, then this Cheeseburger Meatloaf is going to win your heart. It combines everything I love about a classic cheeseburger—juicy ground beef, melty cheddar cheese, smoky bacon—into one hearty, satisfying dish that’s baked to perfection. Every bite feels like a cheeseburger party, but with the warmth and coziness of a home-cooked meatloaf.

I first whipped this up on a lazy Sunday, trying to use up leftover burger ingredients, and it quickly became a family favorite. The texture is tender yet firm, the cheese oozes beautifully over the top, and those crispy bacon bits add the ultimate finishing touch. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a weekend indulgence, this meatloaf never disappoints.

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Why You’ll Love This Cheeseburger Meatloaf

• It’s packed with bold flavor – Think juicy beef, savory onions, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon all wrapped in one dish.
• Easy to customize – You can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
• Crowd-pleaser – Even picky eaters can’t resist this cheesy, beefy masterpiece.
• Comfort food classic – It’s hearty, filling, and perfect for cozy dinners.
• Leftovers are incredible – Just reheat and enjoy all over again, or slice it into a sandwich!

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What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use for Cheeseburger Meatloaf?

When making Cheeseburger Meatloaf, I’ve found that using 80/20 ground beef gives the best result. That ratio means 80% lean meat and 20% fat, which is perfect for keeping the meatloaf juicy and flavorful without becoming greasy. If you go leaner (like 90/10), you might end up with a drier texture—unless you balance it with extra moisture from eggs, milk, or cheese.

You could even mix in a bit of ground pork or ground turkey if you’re looking to lighten it up or deepen the flavor. But honestly, sticking to 80/20 ground chuck gives you that true cheeseburger richness that really makes this dish shine.

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Options for Substitutions

Whether you’re dealing with allergies, preferences, or just using what you have, here are some simple swaps that work great in this recipe:

• Ground Beef → Ground Turkey or Chicken
  If you want something leaner or lower in fat, ground poultry is a great alternative. Just be sure to add a bit more moisture (like shredded zucchini or extra egg) so it doesn’t dry out.
• Cheddar Cheese → Mozzarella, Pepper Jack, or American Cheese
  Want more melt or spice? Try a different cheese! Pepper Jack adds a kick, while American cheese brings in classic fast-food cheeseburger vibes.
• Breadcrumbs → Crushed Crackers or Oats
  Out of breadcrumbs? Use crushed Ritz crackers for a buttery twist, or rolled oats for a slightly healthier option.
• Bacon → Turkey Bacon or Omit Entirely
  For a lighter option, go with turkey bacon. Or if you’re keeping it pork-free, just leave it off—it’ll still be packed with flavor.
• Onion → Shallots or Onion Powder
  Not a fan of chopped onions? Minced shallots offer a milder flavor, or a teaspoon of onion powder will do the trick.

These swaps won’t compromise the integrity of the meatloaf—and in some cases, they might just elevate it in a new direction.

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Ingredients for This Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Each ingredient in this Cheeseburger Meatloaf plays a role in building flavor, texture, and that irresistible cheeseburger vibe we’re going for. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

• Ground Beef (80/20)
  The heart of the meatloaf. Provides juiciness and richness, mimicking the perfect burger patty.
• Cheddar Cheese
  Melts into the meat and drapes beautifully over the top for that gooey cheeseburger effect.
• Bacon
  Adds smoky, salty crunch on top and makes it feel like a deluxe bacon cheeseburger.
• Eggs
  Bind everything together and help the loaf hold its shape without being too dense.
• Breadcrumbs
  Absorb moisture and add body, keeping the meatloaf tender.
• Milk
  Softens the breadcrumbs and adds a bit of richness.
• Yellow Mustard
  Just like on a burger, mustard gives a tangy kick that balances out the beef and cheese.
• Ketchup
  Adds sweetness and tomato flavor—classic cheeseburger territory.
• Worcestershire Sauce
  Deepens the umami and ties the meat flavors together beautifully.
• Onion (finely chopped)
  Infuses the loaf with moisture and a savory-sweet base flavor.
• Garlic Powder
  Adds a mellow garlic punch without overpowering the dish.
• Salt & Black Pepper
  Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors.

These ingredients combine to create a meatloaf that tastes just like your favorite cheeseburger—only better, because it’s baked and served in hearty slices.

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Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.

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Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until just crispy. You don’t want it too crunchy because it will continue baking in the oven. Set it aside on a paper towel to drain, then chop into small pieces.

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Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, mustard, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently using your hands or a spoon until just combined—don’t overwork it or it’ll turn tough.

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Step 4: Shape the Loaf

Transfer the meat mixture onto the prepared sheet or into a loaf pan. Shape it into a firm, even loaf. Press gently to smooth the top, but don’t pack it too tightly.

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Step 5: Add Cheese and Bacon

Layer slices of cheddar cheese over the top of the meatloaf. Then sprinkle or press your chopped bacon evenly across the top. The cheese will melt down the sides as it bakes—so good!

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Step 6: Bake

Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). If the cheese browns too quickly, tent with foil halfway through.

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Step 7: Rest Before Slicing

Once baked, let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and makes cleaner slices.

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How Long to Cook the Cheeseburger Meatloaf

The Cheeseburger Meatloaf should be baked at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 to 55 minutes. Cooking time may vary depending on the shape and thickness of your loaf, as well as your oven. The best way to know it’s done? Use a meat thermometer—you’re looking for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) in the center.

If you’re adding a lot of cheese or using a denser mixture (like ground turkey or extra add-ins), give it a few extra minutes and keep an eye on that thermometer. And always let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.

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Tips for Perfect Cheeseburger Meatloaf

• Use a pan with space: Baking it free-form on a sheet pan (instead of a loaf pan) allows the fat to drain away and lets the edges crisp up nicely.
• Don’t overmix: When combining the meat mixture, mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can make the texture dense and rubbery.
• Layer cheese at the end if you prefer melty topping: Want ultra-gooey cheese? Add the cheddar slices in the last 10–15 minutes of baking.
• Drain excess fat if needed: If you’re baking in a loaf pan, carefully tilt and drain off any grease about halfway through the cook time.
• Rest before slicing: Letting the meatloaf rest keeps it juicy and helps it slice cleanly without falling apart.
• Try a flavor twist: Mix in chopped pickles, a bit of BBQ sauce, or even jalapeños for a spicy, tangy twist on the classic.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even with a foolproof recipe like Cheeseburger Meatloaf, a few small missteps can throw off the final result. Here are the most common mistakes I’ve seen—and how to avoid them:

• Overmixing the meat
  It’s tempting to keep stirring, but too much handling makes the loaf dense. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Using very lean beef without moisture boosters
  Lean meat can dry out. If you’re using 90/10 beef or leaner, consider adding extra milk, cheese, or even a spoonful of mayo to keep it moist.
• Not checking internal temperature
  Guesswork isn’t your friend here. Always use a meat thermometer to make sure you hit 160°F for safe and juicy results.
• Forgetting to rest the loaf
  Cutting into it right away causes all those flavorful juices to run out. Give it 5–10 minutes to rest before slicing.
• Too much cheese on top too early
  While it’s tempting to go full cheese bomb, putting all the cheese on top from the beginning can cause burning. Add a layer midway through or at the end for perfect melt.

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What to Serve With Cheeseburger Meatloaf?

This meatloaf is a showstopper on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes brings the meal together beautifully. Here are my favorite accompaniments:

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Classic, buttery mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort pairing for meatloaf. They soak up the juices and balance out the richness.

Garlic Green Beans

Quickly sautéed or steamed with a little garlic and lemon zest—fresh and vibrant to lighten the plate.

Mac and Cheese

Go all-in on the cheeseburger theme with a rich, baked mac and cheese. Double the cheese, double the joy.

Simple Garden Salad

Crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette help cut through the heaviness of the meatloaf.

Roasted Corn on the Cob

Sweet corn roasted with butter and herbs pairs beautifully with the savory meatloaf flavors.

Toasted Brioche or Garlic Bread

Wipe up every last bit of cheese and juice from the plate with soft, golden bread.

Crispy Potato Wedges

If mashed potatoes aren’t your thing, crispy oven-baked wedges give you that burger-and-fries energy.

Pickles or Coleslaw

For a crunchy, tangy bite, serve with dill pickles or a fresh slaw—just like you’d expect in a cheeseburger basket.

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Storage Instructions

Cheeseburger Meatloaf stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day sandwiches. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• In the Fridge: Once cooled, store slices in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to keep it moist.
• In the Freezer: Wrap individual slices in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• To Reheat: Microwave in short intervals with a damp paper towel to prevent drying, or reheat covered in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 15–20 minutes.

Whether you’re enjoying it the next day or pulling a frozen slice out on a busy weeknight, it tastes just as amazing reheated.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a general estimate based on one slice (assuming 8 servings total per loaf):

• Calories: ~410 kcal
• Protein: 27g
• Fat: 29g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Sugar: 3g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 125mg
• Sodium: 580mg

Keep in mind this varies depending on the brand of cheese, bacon, and any substitutions you make. You can lighten it up with leaner meat and lower-fat cheese if needed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of cheese works best for Cheeseburger Meatloaf?

Cheddar is the go-to for a classic flavor and melt. Sharp cheddar gives a bold taste, while American cheese offers that classic burger-style meltiness. You can also mix in mozzarella or pepper jack for variety.

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Can I make Cheeseburger Meatloaf ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prep the meatloaf mixture a day ahead, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the cook time if it’s going in cold.

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Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a leaner option and works well. Just make sure to increase the moisture with an extra egg, a splash of milk, or grated veggies like zucchini so it doesn’t dry out.

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Why is my meatloaf falling apart?

This usually happens when there aren’t enough binders (like eggs or breadcrumbs), or it wasn’t mixed enough. Letting it rest before slicing also helps it hold its shape.

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Can I stuff the meatloaf with cheese?

Definitely! You can tuck shredded or cubed cheese into the center of the loaf for a molten core of gooey goodness. Just make sure the outer layer is sealed well.

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Do I need to cover the meatloaf while it bakes?

Nope! It’s best baked uncovered so the top gets golden and the cheese melts perfectly. If it starts browning too fast, tent it with foil during the last 15 minutes.

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How do I know when the meatloaf is done?

Use a meat thermometer. The center should read 160°F (71°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, make a small cut in the middle to check that the juices run clear.

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Can I turn leftovers into sandwiches?

Yes—and they’re amazing! Just slice a cold piece, reheat it, and layer it onto a toasted bun with pickles and a swipe of ketchup or mayo. Instant cheeseburger vibes!

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Conclusion

Cheeseburger Meatloaf is everything you love about a juicy cheeseburger wrapped up in a warm, comforting slice of homemade goodness. It’s rich, cheesy, full of flavor, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping meals ahead, or just looking for a new dinner idea that hits all the right notes, this recipe is a winner.

What I love most is how versatile it is—you can change up the cheese, swap in leaner meat, or even get creative with toppings. No matter how you slice it (literally), this meatloaf brings serious flavor and comforting nostalgia to the table.

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