Cheeseburger Meatloaf

The Cheeseburger Meatloaf combines two American favorites into one unforgettable dish. Juicy ground beef, melty cheddar cheese, tangy pickles, and savory onions come together for a meatloaf that feels both nostalgic and exciting. Baked to perfection and finished with a glossy ketchup topping, every slice delivers the rich, hearty flavors you love in a classic cheeseburger.

Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this Cheeseburger Meatloaf recipe is easy to prepare and always satisfies. Pair it with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a crisp side salad for a complete, comforting meal that brings smiles all around the table. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or seasoned foodies, this dish hits the spot every time.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

• 1 large egg

• ½ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)

• ¼ cup mustard

• ¼ cup dill pickles, chopped

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, mustard, pickles, onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.

3. Mix just until combined—be careful not to overwork the meat.

4. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on a lined baking sheet or into a loaf pan.

5. Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top for a glossy finish.

6. Bake for 45–55 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

7. Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Kcal: 425 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Cheeseburger Meatloaf: The Ultimate Comfort Food Mashup

Few things scream comfort food louder than a hearty meatloaf fresh out of the oven. Now imagine combining that nostalgic dish with all the juicy, cheesy goodness of your favorite cheeseburger. That’s exactly what Cheeseburger Meatloaf brings to the table, a creative, mouthwatering twist on two American classics. Perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or weekly meal prep, this dish offers the satisfaction of a burger without ever firing up the grill.

The idea behind cheeseburger meatloaf is simple: pack all the familiar flavors of a classic cheeseburger, ground beef, cheddar cheese, pickles, ketchup, and mustard, into a rich, oven-baked loaf that’s tender and juicy. Unlike traditional meatloaf, which can sometimes turn out dry or bland, cheeseburger meatloaf is bursting with moisture and flavor thanks to the cheese and condiments baked right into the mix.

In this post, we’ll explore the background of meatloaf, the inspiration for this cheeseburger twist, the key ingredients that make it special, serving ideas, variations you can try, and tips for perfect results every time. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just beginning your culinary adventures, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

A Brief History of Meatloaf

Meatloaf has been a beloved staple of American kitchens since the late 19th century. Originally a way to stretch scarce meat supplies during tough economic times, meatloaf gained popularity during the Great Depression and remained a comfort food favorite through generations. Traditionally made from ground beef mixed with breadcrumbs, milk, and seasonings, it was an economical way to feed large families.

Over the years, countless variations have emerged, from Italian-style meatloaf stuffed with mozzarella and marinara to barbecue-glazed versions popular in the South. Our Cheeseburger Meatloaf is another delicious evolution, inspired by the flavors of an all-American cheeseburger.

What Makes Cheeseburger Meatloaf Unique?

The magic of Cheeseburger Meatloaf lies in the layering of classic burger flavors throughout every bite. Here’s why this dish stands out:

• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is mixed right into the beef, ensuring melty, gooey pockets of cheese throughout the loaf. It mimics the irresistible cheese pull you get when biting into a perfectly cooked burger.

• Pickles: Chopped dill pickles bring a zesty, slightly tangy pop that cuts through the richness of the meat and cheese, just like pickles do in a burger.

• Ketchup and Mustard: Classic burger condiments are not just for topping, they’re baked right into the meat mixture, adding moisture and bold flavor.

• Onions: Finely chopped onions create a savory base that complements the beef beautifully.

• Worcestershire Sauce: This umami bomb adds depth and a savory complexity, enhancing the overall burger vibe.

Instead of building a burger layer by layer, all these flavors are combined into one cohesive dish that’s incredibly easy to prepare and even easier to devour.

Key Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:

• Ground Beef: For best results, choose beef with about 80/20 fat content. The little extra fat ensures your meatloaf stays juicy and flavorful without becoming greasy.

• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is preferred for its strong, tangy flavor, but you can substitute with mild cheddar or a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella if desired.

• Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meat mixture together and retain moisture. You can use regular, seasoned, or panko breadcrumbs depending on your texture preference.

• Egg: Acts as a binder, helping the loaf hold its shape.

• Ketchup and Mustard: Adds flavor, tang, and moisture.

• Pickles: Dill pickles are ideal, but bread and butter pickles can add a sweeter twist if that’s your preference.

• Onion and Garlic Powder: For savory depth and a rich flavor base.

• Worcestershire Sauce: Essential for that umami-packed punch.

Serving Suggestions

While Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a complete star on its own, pairing it with the right sides takes it to the next level:

• Mashed Potatoes: A classic choice that perfectly soaks up any juices and ketchup glaze.

• Roasted Vegetables: Think carrots, broccoli, or asparagus for a light, fresh complement.

• Potato Wedges or Fries: Embrace the burger theme fully!

• Garden Salad: A crisp, refreshing counterpoint to the rich meatloaf.

• Mac and Cheese: For the ultimate indulgent meal.

Easy Variations to Try

Want to put your own spin on this delicious dish? Here are a few ideas:

• Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf: Wrap your loaf with strips of bacon before baking or mix cooked crumbled bacon into the meat mixture.

• Spicy Cheeseburger Meatloaf: Add diced jalapeños or pepper jack cheese for a little heat.

• Stuffed Cheeseburger Meatloaf: Place a layer of cheese cubes inside the loaf for a melty, cheesy center surprise.

• Keto-Friendly Cheeseburger Meatloaf: Replace the breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds to keep it low-carb.

• Turkey Cheeseburger Meatloaf: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter, leaner version.

Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Meatloaf

• Do not overmix: Overworking the meat can lead to a dense, tough loaf. Mix just until combined.

• Use a meat thermometer: Ensures your loaf is perfectly cooked without being dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

• Let it rest: Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps redistribute the juices and makes slicing cleaner.

• Use a baking sheet: Instead of a loaf pan, shape your meatloaf free-form on a baking sheet. This allows more surface area for caramelization and less chance of the loaf stewing in its own juices.

Conclusion

Cheeseburger Meatloaf is the perfect comfort food mash-up you didn’t know you needed. It’s everything you love about a classic cheeseburger wrapped up into a warm, hearty sliceable loaf that’s easy to prepare, fun to eat, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re making it for a casual weeknight dinner or a nostalgic weekend gathering, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser that leaves everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!).

Rich, juicy, cheesy, and full of bold, savory flavors, this dish reminds us why comfort food holds such a special place in our hearts. Make it once, and it will quickly earn a spot in your regular recipe rotation. After all, when you combine two of the most beloved American meals into one irresistible creation, how can you go wrong?