Hearty Bacon Cheeseburger Loaf (Printer-Friendly)
Ground beef loaf layered with bacon, cheddar, and a tangy glaze for a smoky, juicy finish.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Meat and Protein
01 -
2 pounds lean ground beef
02 -
12 strips bacon, 6 chopped and 6 whole
03 -
2 large eggs
→ Cheese
04 -
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed
→ Breading and Seasonings
05 -
0.75 cup panko bread crumbs
06 -
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
07 -
0.5 teaspoon liquid smoke
→ Vegetables and Condiments
08 -
0.75 cup crispy fried onions
09 -
0.75 cup dill pickle relish, drained
→ Glaze
10 -
0.5 cup ketchup
11 -
2 tablespoons brown sugar
12 -
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
In a large bowl, gently mix ground beef, drained dill pickle relish, crispy fried onions, eggs, panko bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke using your hands. Avoid overmixing to maintain tenderness.
02 -
Carefully fold the chopped bacon pieces and cubed cheddar cheese into the meat mixture, distributing evenly without overworking.
03 -
Form the mixture into a loaf and place it in a foil-lined 9x13 inch baking pan. Arrange the whole bacon strips over the top, overlapping slightly for full coverage.
04 -
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 50 to 60 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
05 -
Combine ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Brush evenly over the meatloaf surface and return to the oven for 5 to 10 minutes to caramelize the glaze and crisp the bacon topping.
06 -
Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes outside the oven to redistribute juices and firm up for slicing.
# Helpful Hints:
01 -
Drain pickle relish thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in the mixture.
02 -
Use a meat thermometer to guarantee safe internal temperature and avoid drying out.
03 -
Resting the loaf before slicing enhances juiciness and prevents crumbling.
04 -
Fresh panko ensures a lighter texture compared to standard bread crumbs.