Tasty Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf (Print Format)

Hearty ground beef loaf with crispy bacon, cheddar cheese pockets, tangy glaze, and smoky seasoning for a satisfying meal.

# Ingredients:

→ Meat Mixture

01 - 2 lb lean ground beef
02 - 6 strips bacon, cut into pieces
03 - 1 cup dill pickle relish, drained
04 - 3/4 cup crispy fried onions
05 - 2 large eggs
06 - 3/4 cup panko bread crumbs
07 - 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
08 - 1/2 tsp liquid smoke flavor
09 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed

→ Topping

10 - 6 strips bacon, whole
11 - 1/2 cup ketchup
12 - 2 tbsp brown sugar
13 - 1 tsp Dijon mustard

# Steps:

01 - Drain excess liquid from pickle relish and cube sharp cheddar cheese. Prepare bacon by cutting six strips into pieces and reserving six whole strips for topping.
02 - In a large bowl, gently mix ground beef, drained relish, crispy fried onions, eggs, panko bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke with your hands. Avoid overmixing to maintain tenderness.
03 - Fold in the diced bacon pieces and cubed cheddar cheese carefully, ensuring even distribution without overworking the mixture.
04 - Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a foil-lined 9x13 inch baking pan. Arrange the whole bacon strips across the top, overlapping slightly for full coverage.
05 - Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F using a meat thermometer.
06 - Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard to create the glaze. Brush it evenly over the meatloaf surface, then return to the oven for 5-10 minutes until caramelized and bacon crisps.
07 - Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain its shape and juiciness. Serve warm with preferred sides.

# Tips:

01 - Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing ensures it holds together better. Using a meat thermometer prevents overcooking and dryness.