Are you ready to elevate your comfort food game with a dish that combines all your favorite flavors into one delightful meal? If you love BBQ, bacon, cheeseburgers, and meatloaf, this BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf recipe is exactly what you need in your life. Juicy ground beef, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a smoky BBQ sauce come together to create a savory, flavorful meatloaf that's sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Keep reading to learn how to make this mouth-watering dish, along with tips and tricks to make it perfect every time!

What is BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf?
BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a modern twist on traditional meatloaf, incorporating all the elements of a classic bacon cheeseburger. Instead of forming patties, you shape the ground beef mixture into a loaf and bake it, allowing all the delicious flavors to meld together. With a tangy BBQ glaze, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon, this meatloaf combines the best of both worlds—comfort food and a backyard cookout. It’s a meal that satisfies on so many levels, perfect for weeknight dinners or even a special occasion.
Ingredients List for BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
For the meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ¼ cup pickles, diced (optional, for added cheeseburger flavor)
- 2 tablespoons mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the BBQ glaze:
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (use your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Ingredients List for BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
For the garnish and serving:
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese for topping
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
- Hamburger buns or dinner rolls (optional, if you want to serve it like a sandwich)
- Extra BBQ sauce for drizzling or dipping
These ingredients come together to give your meatloaf a rich, savory taste with all the familiar flavors of a BBQ bacon cheeseburger. The combination of beef, bacon, cheese, and BBQ sauce guarantees a comforting dish that is both filling and delicious.
Substitutions and Variations
There are several ways you can customize this BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs:
- Ground Meat Options: While ground beef is traditional for a cheeseburger flavor, you can easily swap it out for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version. Ground pork or a beef-pork mixture also works for a richer taste.
- Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even a smoked gouda can add a unique twist to your meatloaf.
- Toppings: If you want to go full-on cheeseburger mode, consider adding pickles, grilled onions, or even a layer of sliced tomatoes on top of your meatloaf before baking.
- Gluten-Free: Swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs, and ensure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free if you need to cater to dietary restrictions.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to get started? Follow these steps to create the perfect BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Cook the bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy. You can either fry it in a skillet or bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes. Once cooked, crumble the bacon and set it aside.
- Prepare the meat mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, mustard, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and optional diced pickles. Season with salt and pepper. Mix everything gently with your hands until just combined—avoid overmixing to prevent the meatloaf from becoming dense.
- Form the loaf: Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in your prepared loaf pan, or freeform it on a lined baking sheet for a rustic look.
- Prepare the BBQ glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). About 10 minutes before the meatloaf is done, spread the remaining BBQ glaze over the top for a glossy finish.
- Add extra cheese (optional): If you want extra cheesy goodness, sprinkle some additional shredded cheddar on top of the meatloaf during the last 5 minutes of baking to let it melt.
- Rest and serve: Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and makes the meatloaf easier to cut.
How to Cook BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat the oven: Always start by preheating your oven to ensure even cooking.
- Prep your ingredients: Gather all the ingredients, chop the onions and garlic, cook the bacon, and shred the cheese.
- Mix the meatloaf ingredients: Combine everything carefully, ensuring the mixture holds together without overmixing.
- Shape the loaf: Form it into a compact loaf shape to ensure even cooking.
- Apply the glaze: Don’t skip the glaze—it’s what gives the meatloaf its irresistible BBQ flavor.
- Bake and rest: Keep an eye on the internal temperature, and let the loaf rest to ensure maximum juiciness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the meat: Overworking the meat mixture can lead to a tough, dense meatloaf. Mix just until combined.
- Not using enough binder: The breadcrumbs and egg act as binders that keep the meatloaf together. Make sure not to skip them, or the loaf may fall apart.
- Skipping the resting period: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing prevents the juices from running out, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
- Undercooking: Always use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
Serving and Presentation Tips
When serving BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf, presentation matters just as much as the taste. Here are a few tips to make your dish look as good as it tastes:
- Slicing: Use a sharp knife to get clean, even slices.
- Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or green onions over the meatloaf for a pop of color and added freshness.
- Drizzle with extra BBQ sauce: Before serving, drizzle some extra warm BBQ sauce over the meatloaf slices for added flavor.
How to Serve BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
This meatloaf is hearty and flavorful enough to serve on its own, but here are some ideas for complementary sides:
- Classic mashed potatoes: The creaminess of mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with the savory meatloaf.
- Roasted vegetables: Roasted carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts make excellent sides.
- Baked beans or corn on the cob: These sides complete the BBQ theme.
You can even serve slices of this meatloaf between hamburger buns for a BBQ bacon cheeseburger experience!
Presentation Ideas for BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf
- Platter Presentation: Slice the meatloaf and arrange it neatly on a platter with BBQ sauce drizzled on top and fresh herbs for garnish.
- Burger Style: Place meatloaf slices on toasted buns with lettuce, tomato, and onions for a burger-style presentation.
BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe Tips
- Make ahead: Prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freezing: You can freeze uncooked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
- Leftovers: Leftovers make great sandwiches! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon?
A: Yes, turkey bacon works as a leaner alternative, though it won’t be as crispy as regular bacon.
Q: How do I prevent my meatloaf from falling apart?
A: Make sure you’re using enough breadcrumbs and egg, which act as binders. Also, avoid overmixing the meat mixture.
Q: Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the meatloaf ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
Conclusion
This BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf recipe is a fun, flavorful twist on the classic comfort food. With juicy beef, smoky bacon, melted cheese, and a tangy BBQ glaze, it’s a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether you're making it for a cozy family dinner or to impress guests, this meatloaf will surely become a household favorite. Serve it up with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a meal that’s bursting with flavor. Don’t wait—give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious mashup of BBQ, bacon, and cheeseburger goodness in every bite!
PrintBbq Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe
This BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on classic meatloaf, combining ground beef, bacon, cheese, and BBQ sauce for a hearty, family-friendly meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, it’s easy to prepare and packed with smoky, cheesy goodness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Bacon
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- BBQ sauce
- Breadcrumbs
- Eggs
- Onion
- Garlic
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare a loaf pan.
- Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble.
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, eggs, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Fold in the cooked bacon and shredded cheese.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan.
- Brush the top with BBQ sauce.
- Bake until fully cooked through and golden.
- Let it rest before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can use any BBQ sauce of your choice for flavor variations.
- Serve with mashed potatoes or a side salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 750mg
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