If you love the nostalgic flavors of a classic cheeseburger and want to enjoy them in a comforting, hearty new way, this Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe is your new best friend. It takes all the beloved elements—juicy ground beef, sharp cheddar cheese, tangy ketchup, and mustard—and transforms them into a deliciously moist meatloaf topped with melted cheese and a bright glaze. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or weekend family feast, this dish combines simplicity and flavor that will quickly make it a regular in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Sometimes the simplest ingredients come together to create the most unforgettable flavors. Each component in this cheeseburger meatloaf works to build layers of taste, texture, and even a pop of color that makes the dish as appealing to the eyes as it is to your palate.
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef: The hearty base that gives this dish its meatloaf soul and juicy texture.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, cheddar adds that classic cheeseburger bite inside the loaf.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Binds everything together while keeping the meatloaf tender and moist.
- 1/4 cup ketchup: Adds sweetness and moisture to the mixture; it’s a burger staple you can’t skip.
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard: Brings a tangy brightness balancing the richness of the beef and cheese.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Deepens the savory notes for a more complex flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers a subtle aromatic kick that shines through in every bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the meat’s natural flavor with a mild onion sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential to season and bring out all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that balances the dish nicely.
- 1 large egg: Acts as the glue that holds the meatloaf together without making it dense.
- For the topping: 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 tablespoon mustard, 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and optional chopped pickles for a fresh, tangy garnish.
How to Make Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Whether you prefer the rustic touch of a foil-lined baking sheet or the classic shape of a loaf pan, getting this ready ensures your meatloaf will cook evenly and come out looking perfect.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and the egg. The key here is to mix everything gently until just combined. Overworking the mixture can make your meatloaf tough, so treat it with care for the juiciest result.
Step 3: Shape and Bake the Meatloaf
Shape your mixture into a neat loaf on your prepared baking sheet or press it evenly into your loaf pan. Pop it into the oven and bake for 40 minutes. This first phase starts to cook your meatloaf through while keeping it tender inside.
Step 4: Add the Topping
After 40 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread a glossy layer of the topping—made by mixing ketchup and mustard—over the top. Sprinkle the additional shredded cheddar cheese evenly for that irresistible melty finish. Return it to the oven for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is perfectly melted and the meatloaf’s internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
This next step is often overlooked but very important: let your cheeseburger meatloaf rest for 5 to 10 minutes once it’s out of the oven. This allows all those juicy flavors to set, making each slice neat, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.
How to Serve Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your meatloaf with chopped pickles not only adds a pop of tart freshness but also recalls the classic cheeseburger experience. Feel free to add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions if you want a little extra color and mild herbal brightness.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, which soak up every bit of the melted cheese and ketchup glaze. Roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts add earthiness and texture, while a simple green salad offers a light, crisp balance that makes the meal feel complete and inviting.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe into delightful sandwiches by slicing leftover meatloaf and placing it between burger buns with lettuce, tomato, and a swipe of mayo or mustard. You could even transform it into a hearty meatloaf slider platter for parties or game day gatherings that will thrill everyone at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover cheeseburger meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep it moist and flavorful, perfect for weekday lunches or dinner the following day.
Freezing
If you want to save your meatloaf for longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then again in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. Frozen cheeseburger meatloaf can be kept for up to 3 months, making it an excellent make-ahead meal option for busy days.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in the microwave on medium power, or warm them in a 325°F (160°C) oven wrapped in foil to maintain moisture. Adding a little extra cheese or a dollop of ketchup can refresh the classic cheeseburger flavors perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey will work as a leaner alternative. Just be mindful it can dry out faster, so consider adding a bit more ketchup or an extra egg to keep the meatloaf moist and tender.
What kind of cheese is best for the Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe?
Sharp cheddar cheese is ideal because it melts nicely and gives the meatloaf its signature tangy cheeseburger flavor. However, feel free to experiment with American cheese or a blend if you prefer a creamier texture.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The best way is to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Your meatloaf is perfectly cooked when it reaches 160°F (71°C). This ensures safety without overcooking and drying it out.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep the texture just right without gluten.
What can I do if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
If Worcestershire sauce isn’t on hand, you can substitute with soy sauce or leave it out altogether. It adds depth, but the meatloaf will still be delicious without it thanks to the mustard and ketchup.
Final Thoughts
This Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe is honestly one of those comforting classics that you’ll find yourself making again and again. It’s fun to prepare, full of flavor, and yields plenty of smiles around the dinner table. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner or crowd-pleasing centerpiece.
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Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: High-Protein
Description
Cheeseburger Meatloaf combines the classic flavors of a cheeseburger in a comforting, hearty meatloaf form. Featuring ground beef, cheddar cheese, and a savory mix of seasonings, this dish is topped with a zesty ketchup and mustard glaze and extra cheese for the perfect melty finish. Ideal for a family dinner, it’s flavorful, easy to prepare, and pairs well with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
Topping
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: chopped pickles for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or lightly grease a loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix the meatloaf ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup ketchup, 1 tablespoon yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and the egg. Mix gently until just combined to keep the meatloaf tender—you don’t want to overwork the meat.
- Shape the loaf: Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape directly on the prepared baking sheet or press it into a loaf pan evenly for consistent cooking.
- Initial baking: Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 40 minutes to begin cooking through.
- Add the topping: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread a mixture of 2 tablespoons ketchup and 1 tablespoon mustard evenly over the top. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese for a melty finish.
- Finish baking: Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Rest and serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute. Garnish with chopped pickles if desired, and serve warm alongside your favorite sides.
Notes
- Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh simple salad for a balanced meal.
- Leftovers make great sandwiches the next day—just reheat and add your favorite condiments.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
