Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a delicious twist on a classic meatloaf, with all the flavors of a cheeseburger packed into each slice. It’s loaded with cheddar cheese, savory beef, and a hint of tangy ketchup—perfect for a hearty dinner that the whole family will love!
Why You’ll Love Cheeseburger Meatloaf
- Cheesy and Flavorful: Cheddar cheese is mixed in and melted on top.
- Simple to Make: All the ingredients of a cheeseburger in an easy meatloaf format.
- Comforting and Filling: A satisfying meal that pairs well with classic sides like mashed potatoes or green beans.
Ingredients for Cheeseburger Meatloaf
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground turkey or chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup pickles, finely chopped (optional, for a true cheeseburger flavor)
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl: For combining ingredients.
- Loaf pan: For shaping and baking the meatloaf.
- Spatula or spoon: For spreading the topping.
How to Make Cheeseburger Meatloaf
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground turkey (or chicken), 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and chopped pickles if using.
- Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
Step 3: Shape and Bake the Meatloaf
- Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix the topping ingredients (ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar) and spread it evenly over the meatloaf.
Step 4: Bake and Add Cheese
- Bake the meatloaf for 45-50 minutes. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar on top.
- Return the meatloaf to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 5: Let It Rest and Serve
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cheeseburger Meatloaf with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad. It’s also delicious with classic cheeseburger toppings like pickles and extra ketchup!
Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Meatloaf
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make the meatloaf dense; mix just until combined.
- Add Cheese Inside and On Top: Mixing some cheese in the meatloaf and melting more on top gives it a cheesier taste.
- Try Ground Turkey or Chicken: Lighten up the recipe by replacing some of the beef with turkey or chicken.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the meatloaf and refrigerate it (uncooked) for up to 1 day before baking.
Q2: Can I add bacon?
A: Absolutely! Add chopped cooked bacon into the meat mixture or lay strips of bacon on top before baking.
Q3: Can I freeze Cheeseburger Meatloaf?
A: Yes! Freeze cooked meatloaf for up to 2 months, then reheat it covered in the oven until hot.
Conclusion: A Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food
Cheeseburger Meatloaf combines the best of both worlds—a juicy cheeseburger and comforting meatloaf. With melted cheese and tangy ketchup-mustard topping, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!
