When it comes to comfort food, two dishes reign supreme: the classic cheeseburger and the humble meatloaf. Now, imagine what happens when you bring them together. That’s exactly what you get with Cheeseburger Meatloaf—a juicy, cheesy, flavorful loaf that captures all the goodness of a burger but in a hearty, sliceable form.
This recipe is tender, loaded with melty cheese, and packed with the same savory flavors you’d expect from your favorite diner burger. Serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or even tucked into a sandwich the next day, and you’ve got yourself a comfort food masterpiece.
Why You’ll Love Cheeseburger Meatloaf
This isn’t your average meatloaf—it’s the ultimate upgrade:
- Juicy and Flavorful – With ground beef, onions, and a touch of seasoning, every bite is packed with savory goodness.
- Cheesy Center – Melty cheddar (or your favorite cheese) runs through the middle, making each slice irresistible.
- Burger Vibes – All the flavors of a cheeseburger—beef, cheese, ketchup, mustard—baked into one loaf.
- Family-Friendly – A dinner that pleases both kids and adults alike.
- Great for Leftovers – Slice it up for next-day sandwiches or serve with eggs for a hearty breakfast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 works best for juiciness)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed buttery crackers)
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (reserve some for topping)
- ½ cup ketchup (for the glaze)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon mustard (for the glaze)
Optional add-ins: cooked bacon bits, pickles (diced), or a little hot sauce for heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Oven
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Meatloaf
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, eggs, breadcrumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined—don’t overwork it or the loaf will be tough.
3. Add the Cheese
Press half the mixture into the loaf pan. Sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly over the top, leaving a small border at the edges. Add the remaining beef mixture on top and press gently to seal the cheese inside.
4. Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread evenly over the top of the loaf.
5. Bake
Bake for 55–65 minutes, until the loaf is cooked through (internal temp 160°F / 71°C). If desired, sprinkle more cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
6. Rest and Slice
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing—this keeps it juicy. Serve warm.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overmix: Mix until just combined for a tender loaf.
- For extra juiciness: Add a few strips of raw bacon on top before baking.
- Cheese choices: Cheddar is classic, but Swiss, mozzarella, or pepper jack work beautifully.
- Freezer-friendly: Assemble the meatloaf ahead of time, wrap tightly, and freeze. Bake directly from frozen with extra cook time.
Fun Variations
- Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf – Mix in crumbled bacon and top with more crispy strips.
- Pickle Lovers’ Version – Fold in diced dill pickles for that tangy burger flavor.
- BBQ Twist – Swap ketchup glaze for smoky barbecue sauce.
- Mini Meatloaves – Make individual portions using a muffin tin for quicker cooking.
Serving Ideas
Cheeseburger Meatloaf pairs perfectly with:
- Mashed potatoes and gravy for classic comfort.
- Roasted veggies like carrots or green beans.
- French fries or tater tots to lean into the cheeseburger theme.
- Toasted sandwich bread for next-day leftover sandwiches.
Why This Recipe Will Be a Favorite
Cheeseburger Meatloaf is everything you love about two iconic dishes rolled into one: hearty, cheesy, flavorful, and completely comforting. It’s easy enough for weeknights yet impressive enough to serve for Sunday dinner. Plus, the cheesy center makes it feel like a special twist on a classic.
It’s a dish that brings people together at the table, and once you try it, you’ll keep it in your recipe rotation forever.
Final Thought: If you’re craving a meal that’s hearty, comforting, and a little indulgent, this Cheeseburger Meatloafis the answer. Juicy beef, gooey cheese, and a sweet-savory glaze make it a comfort food legend in the making.