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This cheeseburger meatloaf transforms America's favorite sandwich into a hearty dinner that brings everyone to the table. The gooey cheese center creates an irresistible surprise with every slice, making weeknight dinners feel special without extra effort.
I first made this when my teenage son brought three unexpected friends for dinner. What started as a panic solution became our most requested family meal, with everyone fighting over the cheesiest middle slices.
- Ground beef: choose 80/20 for best flavor and moisture balance
- Fresh bread crumbs: create a lighter texture than store bought
- Minced onion: adds savory depth without overwhelming texture
- Beaten eggs: act as the crucial binder keeping everything together
- Salt and pepper: simple but essential for bringing out the beef flavor
- Shredded cheddar cheese: sharp varieties melt perfectly and provide that classic cheeseburger taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the meat mixture:
- Combine ground beef, bread crumbs, minced onion, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Use your hands to mix thoroughly but gently, as overworking creates tough meatloaf. The mixture should hold together when squeezed but still feel light.
- Create the base:
- Lay out a large piece of wax paper on your counter and press the meat mixture into a 14x18 inch rectangle. Keep the thickness as even as possible, around half an inch. This uniform thickness ensures consistent cooking and perfect cheese distribution.
- Add the cheese filling:
- Spread shredded cheddar across the meat rectangle, leaving a 3/4 inch border around all edges. This border prevents cheese from leaking during rolling and cooking. For extra flavor variations, consider mixing in cooked bacon bits or diced pickles with the cheese.
- Roll into a log:
- Starting at the shorter end, carefully lift the wax paper and use it to help roll the meat mixture jelly roll style, encasing the cheese completely. Press the seam and ends firmly to seal in the cheese, creating a solid pinwheel loaf.
- Bake to perfection:
- Transfer your meatloaf to a baking dish and bake uncovered until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, about one hour. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute and cheese to set slightly.
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The cheese filling is what makes this recipe special. My grandmother taught me this rolling technique for meatloaf, but I added the cheese after my first bite of a juicy restaurant burger with perfectly melted cheese. The combination of these two comfort foods creates something truly magical that brings my family together every time.
Make Ahead Tips
This cheeseburger meatloaf shines as a make ahead meal. You can prepare the entire loaf up to a day before cooking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to cook, remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to allow it to come to room temperature. This not only saves time on busy evenings but actually improves the flavor as the seasonings have time to marry with the meat.
Creative Variations
The basic cheeseburger meatloaf can be customized endlessly to match your favorite burger toppings. Try mixing diced pickles into the cheese layer for a tangy surprise. Add a layer of cooked and crumbled bacon beneath the cheese for a bacon cheeseburger experience. For mushroom lovers, sauté mushrooms with the onions before adding to the meat mixture. You can even experiment with different cheese varieties like pepper jack for heat or Swiss for a more subtle flavor.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve this meatloaf with traditional burger accompaniments for the full experience. A side of crispy oven fries or potato wedges completes the comfort food theme. For a lighter option, a simple green salad with tomatoes and red onion balances the richness of the meatloaf. For sauce lovers, offer small bowls of ketchup, mustard, and special sauce on the side. I like to slice the meatloaf thickly and serve it on a large platter family style, allowing everyone to appreciate the beautiful cheese spiral.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I ensure the meatloaf holds its shape?
Make sure to tightly roll the meat mixture and seal the edges firmly. Using wax paper helps with precise rolling and even shaping.
- → Can I substitute the cheddar cheese?
Yes, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicier kick.
- → How do I know the meatloaf is fully cooked?
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach at least 160°F (70°C).
- → Can I prepare the meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the loaf and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- → What side dishes pair well with this meatloaf?
Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad complement this dish perfectly.