Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup pickles, chopped (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, and egg until the mixture is well blended.
3. Season the Meat: Add the ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of all ingredients.
4. Incorporate Add-ins: Fold in the crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, and chopped pickles (if using).
5. Shape the Loaf: Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf. Optionally, top with additional cooked bacon slices and cheese.
6. Bake: Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 55 minutes, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked and the top is slightly caramelized.
7. Rest Before Slicing: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking to retain its juices and enhance the flavors.
8. Serve: Slice the meatloaf and serve hot, garnished with extra pickles and a drizzle of ketchup if desired.

Variations & Tips

• Healthier Options: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack for added spice or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to boost the vegetable content.
• Glazed Topping: For a sweet glaze, top the meatloaf with a mixture of ketchup and brown sugar before baking. This will create a delicious caramelized layer.

This bacon cheeseburger meatloaf offers a hearty and flavorful twist on a classic dish, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.