Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Name: Cheeseburger Meatloaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 cup plain breadcrumbs; 2 large eggs; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 medium onion, diced; 1/2 cup ketchup; 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; Salt and pepper to taste

Author: Melon Claire

Published: October 26, 2024

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Easy-to-Make Cheeseburger Meatloaf That Will Have You Drooling

Is there anything more nostalgic than a hearty slice of Cheeseburger Meatloaf fresh from the oven, its cheesy goodness melting into every savory bite? This recipe is more than just a meal; it evokes childhood memories of juicy burgers sizzling on the grill while the aroma wafts through the air and builds excitement. You’ll find this cheeseburger meatloaf is not only fast to prepare but also kid-friendly, making it the perfect family dinner. This dish brings the delicious flavors of a classic cheeseburger right to your dinner table, wrapped up in a meaty loaf that’s as comforting as it is satisfying.

Are you craving a taste of indulgence wrapped in nostalgia?

Close your eyes and picture this: a slice of warm, cheesy meatloaf ready to be devoured alongside fluffy mashed potatoes and drizzled with your favorite barbecue sauce. Doesn’t that just make your mouth water? We’ve all had those days when we need something delicious and fulfilling, something that warms the heart and brings everyone together. Picture the moment when you cut into that meatloaf, the gooey melted cheese stretching as you pull the slices apart. Each mouthful becomes a bite of nostalgia, a comforting reminder of home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll absolutely adore this Cheeseburger Meatloaf for various reasons.

Easy Prep: With minimal prep and straightforward steps, you can whip this dinner together in no time.
Healthy Comfort Food: Using lean ground beef keeps it healthier, and you can tailor it with vegetables or spices to suit your family’s preferences.
Crowd-Pleaser: This meatloaf is sure to wow picky eaters. Its flavor profile mirrors that of a cheeseburger, making it instantly likable for kids and adults alike.
Minimal Ingredients: With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a truly satisfying dish without the fuss.

Ingredients

To create this mouthwatering Cheeseburger Meatloaf, you will need:

1 lb lean ground beef, perfect for keeping things light while still providing that savory flavor.
1 cup plain breadcrumbs that will hold everything together, adding that ideal texture you crave.
2 large eggs, acting as the binding agent that keeps your meatloaf from crumbling apart.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, the star ingredient that brings oozing, melty goodness into every slice.
1 medium onion, diced, for that sweet and savory burst of flavor that complements the beef perfectly.
1/2 cup ketchup, a classic that offers moisture and a hint of sweetness, reminiscent of our favorite burgers.
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, bringing depth and umami to the dish that can’t be overlooked.
Salt and pepper to taste, essential for enhancing all the flavors and making each bite memorable.

Now that we’ve listed out these tasty ingredients, you can already almost taste the cheeseburger goodness that’s about to happen!

Timing

Creating this delicious Cheeseburger Meatloaf is fast and indulgent. Prepping the ingredients only takes about 15 minutes, and in just an hour of baking, you’ll be ready to feast. Alternatively, if you prefer a slow-cooked, luxurious version, consider letting it bake longer or cooking it in a slow cooker to deepen those flavors.

Step-by-Step

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish. The anticipation of that oven-beaten heat is just the beginning!
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, diced onion, eggs, and half the cheese. As you mix, notice how the scent of savory beef and melted cheese becomes intoxicating.
Season the mixture with salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and any additional spices you desire. The aroma will have you excited for what’s to come!
Shape the mixture into a loaf in the baking dish; you want it as tight and compact as possible for that satisfying density.
Generously spread ketchup over the top, allowing it to coat the surface and create a sticky, sweet glaze while baking.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, watching it pile up like a dreamy, gooey blanket.
Bake for approximately 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches a juicy 160°F (70°C). You’ll know it’s done when the cheesy crust is golden brown and irresistibly bubbling.
Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This step is crucial for juicy, mouthwatering slices that won’t fall apart as you dish it out.

Nutritional Information

This Cheeseburger Meatloaf boasts about 300 calories per serving, making it a comforting indulgence while still being fairly balanced in your diet. The lean beef and the addition of onions provide protein and essential nutrients, making this a delightful addition to your family meals. Remember, balance is key, and a little indulgence now and then is what makes life delicious!

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re on the lookout for health-conscious options, consider low-sugar alternatives such as using sugar-free ketchup or opting for turkey instead of beef. You can also experiment with dairy-free cheese or replace traditional breadcrumbs with whole grain or gluten-free alternatives to meet dietary preferences while still keeping the flavor delightful.

Serving Suggestions

This Cheeseburger Meatloaf is great on its own, but why not make it even more fantastic? Serve slices on toasted burger buns to create a gourmet sandwich experience. Alternatively, dish it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. And don’t forget to whip up a side salad with tangy dressing for those nice, fresh flavors to balance all the hearty goodness!

Common Mistakes

A few common mistakes often happen when baking this delight.

Overbaking can lead to a dry meatloaf, so keep an eye on that internal temperature.
Texture issues can arise if the mixture is too loose; be sure to use the right amount of breadcrumbs for stability.
Messes can happen, especially when you’re mixing. Keeping your workspace tidy will make for a more pleasant cooking experience!

Storing Tips

To keep your Cheeseburger Meatloaf fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice the meatloaf into portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through.

Tempt Yourself to Bake It ASAP!

If you’ve been looking for a cozy dinner recipe that tugs at the heartstrings while ticking all the boxes for flavor and satisfaction, it’s time to give this Cheeseburger Meatloaf a try. With its hearty, cheesy, and meaty goodness, you’ll find yourself revisiting this dish again and again. Gather your ingredients and get ready to serve up slices of nostalgia, comfort, and all-around deliciousness!

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a healthy alternative that works beautifully.
Can I freeze leftover meatloaf?
Absolutely! It freezes well for months, making it a perfect dish for meal prep!
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should be at least 160°F (70°C).
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can add extra flavor and nutrients.
What can I serve with Cheeseburger Meatloaf?
Try it with mashed potatoes, salad, or as a burger on a bun with your favorite fixings!

So don’t wait—let’s bring some cheeseburger joy into your kitchen today with this delightful meatloaf!