Cheeseburger Meatloaf

This Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a fun twist on the classic meatloaf, combining the juicy flavors of a cheeseburger with the hearty texture of a traditional meatloaf. It’s loaded with ground beef, melted cheese, and a tangy ketchup-mayo glaze on top, making it a family-friendly dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cheeseburger Flavors – The delicious, familiar taste of a cheeseburger in every bite.
• Moist & Flavorful – The combination of ground beef, cheese, and seasonings makes it incredibly juicy and satisfying.
• Easy & Quick – Ready in about 1 hour, it’s a simple and hearty meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (85% lean is ideal)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)

For the Topping:

• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
• 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined, but be careful not to overwork the meat to keep the loaf tender.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, making sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the meat mixture.

Step 4: Shape and Bake

Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan or form it into a loaf shape on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes or until the meatloaf is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F/71°C).

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

While the meatloaf is baking, mix together the ketchup, mayonnaise, mustard, and relish (if using) in a small bowl.

Step 6: Add the Topping

After the meatloaf has finished baking, spread the topping mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the topping is heated through and slightly caramelized.

Step 7: Serve

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite side dishes, like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with crispy roasted potatoes or fries for a classic cheeseburger-inspired meal.
• Serve with a side of coleslaw for a crunchy contrast.
• Add a dollop of pickles or onions on the side for extra flavor.

Tips & Variations

• Add Bacon – For extra flavor, chop up some crispy bacon and mix it into the meatloaf for a smoky taste.
• Cheese Variations – Experiment with different types of cheese like Swiss, mozzarella, or American for a different twist.
• Vegetarian Option – You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils for a vegetarian version.
• Make It Spicy – Add a bit of hot sauce or jalapeños to the meat mixture for some heat.

Final Thoughts

This Cheeseburger Meatloaf brings the best of both worlds—juicy, cheesy meatloaf with all the classic flavors of a cheeseburger. It’s a simple, hearty meal that’s sure to become a favorite for everyone at the dinner table. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!

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