🍔 Cheeseburger Meatloaf 🍔
This hearty Cheeseburger Meatloaf combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the comfort of meatloaf. Packed with cheddar cheese and seasoned ground beef, this dish is a family favorite for dinner!
📋 Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- ¾ cup fresh bread crumbs
- ½ cup minced onion
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground black pepper
- 3 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
📝 Directions:
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2️⃣ Mix the Meatloaf:
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, minced onion, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until evenly combined.
3️⃣ Shape the Meatloaf:
- Pat out the meat mixture onto a piece of wax paper into a large rectangle, about 14×18 inches.
4️⃣ Add the Cheese:
- Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the meat, leaving a ¾-inch border around the edges.
5️⃣ Roll the Meatloaf:
- Roll up the meatloaf jelly-roll style, starting from one end and rolling tightly. Pinch the ends to enclose the cheese and form a compact loaf.
6️⃣ Prepare for Baking:
- Transfer the meatloaf to a 10×15-inch baking dish, seam side down.
7️⃣ Bake the Meatloaf:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) when checked with an instant-read thermometer.
Cheeseburger Meatloaf FAQs & Tips
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! While cheddar is the classic choice for cheeseburger flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or even Swiss to change up the taste.
2. How do I prevent the cheese from oozing out?
Be sure to leave a small border around the edges when you sprinkle the cheese. Also, pinching the ends tightly helps seal the cheese inside. If you’re still concerned about leakage, you can place the meatloaf seam-side down to help keep it intact.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the meatloaf a day in advance, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just allow it to come to room temperature before putting it in the oven.
4. Can I add toppings like ketchup or mustard?
Yes, you can brush ketchup, mustard, or even barbecue sauce over the top before baking for an extra layer of cheeseburger flavor. Some people also like to add crispy bacon for a bacon cheeseburger twist!
5. How do I know when it’s fully cooked?
The best way to ensure your meatloaf is fully cooked is by using an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C). This ensures the beef is safe to eat without overcooking.
6. What can I serve with cheeseburger meatloaf?
This dish pairs well with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. You could also serve it with French fries for a full “burger” experience.
Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Meatloaf
- Don’t Overmix the Meat: Overmixing the ground beef can make your meatloaf tough. Mix just until everything is combined for a tender loaf.
- Use Fresh Breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs help to absorb the juices and keep the meatloaf moist. If you don’t have fresh breadcrumbs, panko can be a good substitute.
- Let it Rest Before Slicing: Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes after taking it out of the oven. This helps the juices redistribute and makes for cleaner slices.
- Add Toppings After Baking: If you love the flavor of a cheeseburger with pickles, lettuce, and tomatoes, consider adding these toppings on the side after the meatloaf is cooked, much like you would with a traditional burger.
This Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a delicious, fun twist on the classic, bringing together the best of two comfort food worlds in one satisfying dish!
🍽️ Serve and Enjoy!
Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy the cheesy goodness of this comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for any family dinner!