These Quesabirria Tacos offer a delightful mix of tender, slow-cooked beef and tortillas dipped in rich broth, creating a flavor-packed experience with every bite. The combination of spices, beef, and savory broth makes this recipe a true standout.
Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a mouthwatering twist on the classic comfort food, combining all the flavors of a juicy bacon cheeseburger into a hearty, satisfying dish. This recipe is perfect for those who love the taste of a cheeseburger but want to enjoy it in a cozy, family-style meal. Let's start by gathering all the ingredients you'll need to create this delicious meatloaf.
INGREDIENTS
- Ground Beef: 1 1/2 lbs, providing the base for the meatloaf, bringing in that rich, beefy flavor.
- Bacon: 8 slices, cooked and crumbled, adding a smoky, savory element to the dish.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, shredded, offering a creamy and tangy taste that complements the beef and bacon.
- Bread Crumbs: 1/2 cup, helping to bind the meatloaf together and giving it structure.
- Ketchup: 1/4 cup, adding a touch of sweetness and acidity to the meatloaf mixture.
- Mustard: 1/4 cup, for a bit of tangy kick that balances the richness of the other ingredients.
- Worcestershire Sauce: 2 tablespoons, enhancing the umami flavor in the meatloaf.
- Onion: 1, finely chopped, adding moisture and a subtle sweetness.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, for a robust, aromatic flavor.
- Eggs: 2, beaten, which act as a binder to hold the meatloaf together.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, seasoning the meatloaf to perfection.
- Topping:
- Ketchup: 1/2 cup, for a classic meatloaf glaze.
- Mustard: 1 tablespoon, adding a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the ketchup.
- Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons, giving the glaze a caramelized sweetness.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan to ensure the meatloaf doesn’t stick.
- Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
-
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, bread crumbs, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix everything together until well combined.
- Step 3: Form the Meatloaf
-
Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press it down gently to shape it into a loaf that fits snugly in the pan.
- Step 4: Prepare the Topping
-
In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This will create a flavorful glaze that caramelizes as the meatloaf bakes.
- Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf
-
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the topping is caramelized. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) when fully cooked.
- Step 6: Rest and Serve
-
Once the meatloaf is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meatloaf, making it easier to slice. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty, flavorful Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf!
Serving and Storage Tips
This Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf is best served hot, right out of the oven. It pairs beautifully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad. If you have leftovers, allow the meatloaf to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices of meatloaf in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. For a quicker option, you can also microwave individual slices, though the texture may vary slightly.
Helpful Notes
For an extra cheesy experience, consider adding a layer of shredded cheese on top of the meatloaf before spreading on the glaze. This will create a deliciously melty cheese crust.
To add a smoky flavor, you can use smoked cheddar or add a dash of smoked paprika to the meat mixture.
If you prefer a leaner meatloaf, you can use a mixture of ground beef and ground turkey or chicken. Just keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different.
Tips from well-known chefs
Chef Bobby Flay: Recommends mixing the meatloaf ingredients just until combined to avoid a dense texture. Over-mixing can make the meatloaf tough.
Chef Rachael Ray: Suggests using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for a lighter texture and better absorption of flavors.
Chef Jamie Oliver: Advises brushing a layer of mustard directly onto the meatloaf before adding the glaze for an extra tangy flavor boost.