Savory Cheeseburger Meatloaf Filled with Cheddar (Print version)

Juicy cheeseburger meatloaf rolled around sharp cheddar, brushed with tangy glaze, and baked until sliceable and melty.

# Ingredients:

For the meatloaf

01 - 3/4 cup (55 g) fresh breadcrumbs
02 - 1/3 cup (80 ml) whole milk
03 - 2 large eggs, beaten
04 - 1/2 cup (75 g) finely minced yellow onion
05 - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
06 - 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
07 - 1 teaspoon black pepper
08 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
09 - 2 lb (900 g) 85/15 ground beef

For the cheddar filling

10 - 2 cups (225 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
11 - 1/3 cup (50 g) finely chopped dill pickles, patted dry

For the glaze

12 - 1/3 cup (80 g) ketchup
13 - 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
14 - 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
15 - 1 teaspoon brown sugar

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking dish or sheet pan with parchment for easier cleanup.
02 - In a large bowl, stir together the breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until evenly moistened.
03 - Add the ground beef and mix gently with your hands just until combined. Do not pack or overwork the mixture.
04 - Press the meat mixture onto parchment into a 10x14 inch rectangle. Sprinkle cheddar and chopped pickles over the center, leaving a 1 inch border around the edges.
05 - Use the parchment to roll the meatloaf from a short side. Pinch the seam and ends closed, then place seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
06 - Stir the ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar together. Brush half over the loaf and bake for 40 minutes, then brush with the remaining glaze and continue baking until the meat reaches 160°F, about 15-25 minutes more.
07 - Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing thickly so the juices settle and the cheddar center stays creamy.

# Good to know:

01 - Use 85/15 ground beef for a juicy loaf that is not overly greasy.
02 - Resting is important because the cheddar center firms slightly as it cools.
03 - Best served warm with potatoes, salad, pickles, or roasted vegetables.