A Classic Comfort Food Mashup Your Whole Family Will Love

Looking for a family dinner that’s both comforting and packed with flavor? This Cheeseburger Meatloaf combines the juicy, savory goodness of a classic cheeseburger with the cozy familiarity of meatloaf. It’s easy to prepare, makes enough to feed a crowd, and tastes just as good the next day—if not better.

If you’re a fan of cheeseburgers, meatloaf, or both, then this is a must-try recipe. It’s loaded with cheddar cheese, savory seasonings, and a tangy ketchup topping, with an optional addition of dill pickles to really dial up that cheeseburger flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week, or looking to impress at a potluck, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Try This Delicious Cheeseburger Meatloaf Tonight!

Ready to shake up your dinner routine? Save or print this recipe and give it a try tonight. It’s hearty, satisfying, and so simple to make—you might even find a new family favorite!

Introduction

Cheeseburger Meatloaf brings together two beloved American classics: the all-beef cheeseburger and the traditional meatloaf. The result is a rich, savory, cheesy loaf that’s loaded with flavor. Instead of grilling burgers individually, this recipe allows you to bake everything in one dish and serve it with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even pickles and extra condiments.

Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or just craving something nostalgic, this recipe hits the spot every time. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly and can be made ahead of time—perfect for busy households.

Tools Needed, Servings, and Cook Time

Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools ready to streamline your cooking process.

Tools You’ll Need:

• Large mixing bowl
• Loaf pan or baking sheet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon or your hands
• Oven

Servings:

6 to 8 generous servings

Time Required:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make your cheeseburger meatloaf:

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 pounds ground beef
• ¾ cup fresh bread crumbs
• ½ cup minced onion
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup chopped dill pickles (optional, for added cheeseburger flavor)

For the Topping:

• ½ cup ketchup
• Additional ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your meatloaf will bake evenly and thoroughly.

2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:

• Ground beef
• Bread crumbs
• Minced onion
• Beaten eggs
• Salt and pepper
• Yellow mustard
• Ketchup
• Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Optional: chopped dill pickles

Mix everything together until all ingredients are fully combined. You can use a spoon, but using your hands will help distribute the seasonings and ingredients more thoroughly.

3. Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the beef mixture into a loaf pan or form it by hand on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Gently shape it into a loaf, about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide. Avoid packing it too tightly, which can result in a dense texture.

4. Add the Topping

Spread ½ cup of ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This helps form a sweet, tangy glaze.
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the ketchup. As it bakes, this cheesy topping will melt and brown to perfection.

5. Bake the Meatloaf

Place the loaf into your preheated oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). The cheese should be melted and slightly golden, and the loaf should be firm to the touch.

6. Rest Before Serving

Once done, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes. This step is essential—it allows the juices to redistribute, making the loaf easier to slice and more flavorful.

Recommendation for Recipe Success

• Don’t overmix: Overmixing the meat can lead to a dense, tough texture. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Use fresh bread crumbs: They help hold the meatloaf together without making it gummy.
• Monitor internal temperature: A meat thermometer ensures you don’t under- or overcook the meat.
• Let it rest: This makes slicing cleaner and helps the juices settle, improving flavor and texture.
• Add pickles: For true cheeseburger vibes, the optional chopped dill pickles are a game-changer.

Serving Suggestions

Cheeseburger Meatloaf is incredibly versatile. Here are some perfect pairings to complete your meal:

• Mashed potatoes or garlic roasted potatoes
• Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli
• A crisp side salad with vinaigrette
• Toasted hamburger buns (slice and serve like mini meatloaf sliders!)
• Extra pickles and mustard or ketchup on the side

Storage Tips

Refrigeration:

Place leftover slices in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

Wrap the whole loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating:

• Oven: Reheat slices at 300°F until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 1–2 minutes.

For best results, add a bit of ketchup or a damp paper towel over the slice while reheating to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well in this recipe. Just note that it may require a little extra seasoning to boost flavor, and it may cook a bit faster than ground beef.

2. What cheese works best in this meatloaf?

Cheddar cheese is classic and gives a strong cheeseburger taste. However, you can substitute with mozzarella for a milder flavor or pepper jack for a bit of spice.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it up to a day ahead. Cover tightly and refrigerate. When ready, just top with ketchup and cheese and bake as directed.

4. Is there a low-carb version of this recipe?

To reduce carbs, substitute fresh bread crumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds, and use a sugar-free ketchup alternative.

5. How do I prevent the meatloaf from becoming greasy?

Use lean ground beef (at least 85/15) and bake the loaf on a wire rack over a baking sheet to let excess fat drain away.

Conclusion

This Cheeseburger Meatloaf is everything you love about a classic burger—juicy beef, sharp cheddar, tangy condiments, and optional pickles—baked into a hearty, satisfying loaf. Whether you’re looking to simplify your dinner routine or want a nostalgic meal the whole family can agree on, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal fuss.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or make-ahead meals, it’s a comforting go-to dish you’ll want to make again and again. Serve it up with your favorite sides, and don’t forget to save a few slices for leftovers—you’ll be glad you did.

Ready to bring the best of two American classics to your dinner table? Try this Cheeseburger Meatloaf tonight, and taste the magic of comfort food done right.