Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Introduction

Cheeseburger Meatloaf takes the comforting classic meatloaf and infuses it with all the best parts of a juicy cheeseburger—melted cheese, savory ground beef, breadcrumbs, onions, ketchup, mustard, and even pickles if you’d like. It’s a hearty dish that tastes familiar yet feels new, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s pure comfort food. Meatloaf is nostalgic, but sometimes it can be a little plain—this version is anything but! The gooey pockets of melted cheese and the tangy ketchup-mustard topping transform the loaf into something indulgent and crave-worthy. It’s fun, family-friendly, and every slice feels like biting into a cheeseburger without the bun.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the heartiness of meatloaf.
• Kid-approved and loved by adults alike.
• Perfect for meal prepping and reheating.
• Customizable with different cheeses, sauces, and mix-ins.
• Comfort food that’s elevated, fun, and satisfying.

Recipe Details

• Cuisine: American Comfort Food
• Course: Main Course
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55–60 minutes
• Total Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 6–8 slices
• Calories: ~380 kcal per serving

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs ground beef (85/15 works best)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
• ½ medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Topping:

• ¼ cup ketchup
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese (for melting on top)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, cheese, onion, garlic, ketchup, mustard, and seasonings.
2. Shape into a loaf and place in a baking dish.
3. Bake for 45 minutes, then add topping and extra cheese.
4. Bake until fully cooked and cheese is bubbly.
5. Rest, slice, and serve.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preheat Oven
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or baking dish.
2. Make Meatloaf Mixture
   In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, shredded cheddar, onion, garlic, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Shape the Loaf
   Transfer mixture into prepared pan and shape into a firm loaf.
4. First Bake
   Bake uncovered for about 45 minutes.
5. Add Topping
   In a small bowl, mix ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar. Spread evenly over meatloaf, sprinkle with extra cheddar cheese.
6. Finish Baking
   Return to oven and bake another 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly and internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Rest & Slice
   Let meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to lock in juices.

How to Serve

• Serve with French fries, onion rings, or roasted potatoes for the full cheeseburger experience.
• Add a fresh green salad or coleslaw to balance richness.
• Drizzle extra ketchup or burger sauce over slices.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Don’t overmix—keeps the meatloaf tender.
• Tent with foil if cheese browns too quickly.
• Add diced pickles or bacon inside for extra cheeseburger flavor.
• Try blending ground beef with ground pork for extra juiciness.

Variations

• Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf: Add crumbled bacon inside or wrap bacon strips around the loaf.
• Stuffed Cheeseburger Meatloaf: Fill the center with cheese cubes for melty bites.
• Spicy Cheeseburger Meatloaf: Add jalapeños or pepper jack cheese.
• BBQ Cheeseburger Meatloaf: Replace ketchup-mustard topping with BBQ sauce.
• Mini Cheeseburger Meatloaves: Make in a muffin tin for individual servings.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Freezer (Uncooked): Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
• Freezer (Cooked): Freeze slices or whole loaf up to 2 months. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Loaf pan or baking dish
• Meat thermometer

FAQ

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, but add extra cheese and onions to keep it flavorful and moist.

Q2: Can I make it ahead?
Yes—assemble the loaf, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q3: Can I skip the topping?
You can, but the ketchup-mustard glaze makes it taste more like a cheeseburger.

Q4: What cheese works best?
Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend also work well.

Conclusion

Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a fun and flavorful twist on two classic American comfort foods. Juicy, cheesy, and loaded with burger-inspired flavors, it’s the kind of dish that both kids and adults will devour. Whether you keep it simple or customize it with your favorite burger toppings, this meatloaf is guaranteed to become a family favorite.