Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Cheeseburger Meatloaf is the ultimate mash-up of two comfort food classics—juicy cheeseburgers and hearty meatloaf. It’s packed with beefy flavor, melted cheese, and just the right amount of seasoning to give it that burger-shop taste, all baked into a sliceable loaf that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or leftovers the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this meatloaf because it brings the fun, nostalgic flavor of a cheeseburger to the dinner table in a comforting, no-fuss format. It’s cheesy, savory, and incredibly satisfying—especially when I top it with classic burger fixings like pickles and ketchup. It’s easy to prep, bakes up beautifully, and always gets rave reviews from anyone I serve it to.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)

• Onion, finely chopped

• Garlic, minced

• Eggs

• Breadcrumbs

• Milk

• Ketchup

• Yellow mustard

• Worcestershire sauce

• Shredded cheddar cheese

• Salt and pepper

• Optional toppings: pickles, extra cheese, ketchup or burger sauce

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, I combine the ground beef, onion, garlic, eggs, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper. I mix just until combined—being careful not to overwork it.

3. I fold in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.

4. I shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the pan or on the baking sheet.

5. I bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

6. In the last 5 minutes, I brush the top with extra ketchup and sprinkle on more cheese if I want it extra gooey.

7. I let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Sometimes I top it with sliced pickles for that full cheeseburger experience.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• I use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version

• I add diced pickles or relish to the meat mixture for a tangy bite.

• I swap cheddar for pepper jack or American cheese, depending on the flavor I want.

• I serve leftovers as sandwiches with lettuce, tomato, and burger sauce for an easy lunch.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm slices in the microwave or oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through. It also freezes well—I wrap individual slices for easy meal prep, then reheat from frozen or thaw overnight.

FAQs

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare the meatloaf, shape it, and store it in the fridge (uncooked) for up to a day in advance. Then I bake it when ready.

What kind of cheese works best?

I prefer sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but any melting cheese works—like Monterey Jack, Swiss, or American.

Can I make this without breadcrumbs?

Yes, I’ve used crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked rice as a substitute. It helps hold the loaf together.

How do I keep the meatloaf from drying out?

I use milk and eggs to keep it moist, and I avoid overbaking. Letting it rest after cooking helps retain the juices too.

Can I cook this in a muffin tin?

Absolutely. I sometimes make mini meatloaves in a muffin pan—they cook faster and are great for portion control.

Conclusion

Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a fun, family-friendly dinner that brings bold, nostalgic flavors into a comforting slice. It’s easy to make, satisfying to eat, and totally customizable. Whether I’m serving it with mashed potatoes, a side salad, or tucked into a sandwich the next day, this meatloaf never disappoints.

Print