Name: Cheeseburger Meatloaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 0.25 cup plain breadcrumbs; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 0.5 tsp garlic powder; 0.75 tsp salt; 1 large egg; 0.5 cup onion (minced); 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese; 1 lb ground beef (85/15 blend); 0.5 cup ketchup; 1 Tbsp brown sugar; 1 tsp yellow mustard; 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Introduction to Cheeseburger Meatloaf

When comfort food meets convenience, you get the deliciously satisfying cheeseburger meatloaf. This dish cleverly combines a classic cheeseburger's rich flavors with the easy-to-prep benefits of a meatloaf. Imagine sinking your teeth into a tender loaf filled with savory ground beef, melted sharp cheddar, and aromatic spices. What’s not to love about that?

Why cheeseburger meatloaf?

So, why should you give cheeseburger meatloaf a try? For one, it’s a perfect solution for busy weeknights when you still want to serve your family something hearty and wholesome. Plus, it's a crowd-pleaser, loved by both kids and adults alike. By adding a tangy glaze made from ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce, each bite bursts with flavor, reminiscent of your favorite backyard barbecue.

This dish is also incredibly versatile! You can customize it to fit your family’s tastes by adding different cheeses or veggies, or even serving it with classic sides like mashed potatoes or a crisp salad. The possibilities are endless, making it not just a recipe, but a canvas for culinary creativity. For more twists on classic comfort foods, you might enjoy exploring other recipes like loaded baked potatoes or classic homemade meatballs.

Get ready to impress your dinner guests and fuel your weeknight dinners with this scrumptious take on a beloved classic!

Ingredients for Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Creating a mouthwatering cheeseburger meatloaf doesn't have to be complicated. Let's break down the essential ingredients to ensure your dish turns out just right.

Essential ingredients for the meatloaf

The foundation of your meatloaf starts with a few key components:

Plain breadcrumbs (¼ cup): Adds texture and binds everything together.
Smoked paprika (1 tsp): Provides a smoky flavor that elevates the dish.
Garlic powder (½ tsp): A must-have for that savory punch.
Salt (¾ tsp): Enhances all the flavors.
Egg (1 large): Helps to bind the ingredients.
Onion (½ cup minced): Adds moisture and sweetness.
Sharp cheddar cheese (4 oz.): The star of the show, bringing that cheeseburger vibe.
Ground beef (1 lb., 85/15 blend): Keeps it juicy and flavorful.

Glaze essentials

The glaze is what makes this cheeseburger meatloaf truly special. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ketchup (½ cup): The base of your glaze for that classic sweetness.
Brown sugar (1 Tbsp): Balances the acidity of the ketchup.
Yellow mustard (1 tsp): Adds a zing that complements the meat.
Worcestershire sauce (1 tsp): Deepens the flavor profile with its umami richness.

These ingredients combine to create a delicious cheeseburger meatloaf that’s bound to impress! For additional tips on selecting quality ingredients, check out the American Meat Science Association for expert advice.

Step-by-Step Preparation of Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Creating a delicious cheeseburger meatloaf is simpler than you might think! Follow these easy steps to have dinner on the table in no time, while satisfying your cravings for a classic cheeseburger with a twist.

Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). This is crucial for ensuring your meatloaf bakes evenly. While the oven heats up, gather all your ingredients. You’ll need plain breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, garlic powder, a large egg, minced onion, cheddar cheese, and ground beef, among others. Having everything on hand makes for a smoother cooking experience.

Mix the Seasoned Breadcrumbs

In a small mixing bowl, stir together the following ingredients for your seasoned breadcrumbs:

¼ cup plain breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¾ teaspoon salt

Mix them well, allowing the spices to evenly coat the breadcrumbs. This mixture adds a great depth of flavor to your cheeseburger meatloaf, reminiscent of those late-night burger cravings we all know too well.

Combine the Meat Mixture

In a larger bowl, you’ll want to combine the core of your meatloaf. Start by finely mincing the onion and chopping the sharp cheddar cheese into small pieces. Now, add your ground beef (1 lb.), the seasoned breadcrumbs from the previous step, the whisked egg, minced onion, and chopped cheddar cheese.

Get your hands in there and mix gently until everything is well incorporated. Feel free to think of this step as a mini workout; just remember not to overwork the meat—it makes for a tough meatloaf!

Shape the Meatloaf

Next, transfer the mixture into a casserole dish or a rimmed baking sheet. Shape the mixture into a rectangle about 7 inches long, 4 inches wide, and 1.5 inches thick. Not only does shaping it properly help with cooking time, but it also makes for a more visually appealing dish—who doesn’t love a nicely shaped meatloaf?

Prepare the Glaze and Apply

While your meatloaf is taking form, let’s make the delicious glaze! In a small bowl, mix together the following:

½ cup ketchup
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon yellow mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Stir until smooth, then spread the glaze generously over your unbaked meatloaf. This adds an irresistible sweet and tangy layer that is simply mouthwatering.

Bake and Serve

Place your cheeseburger meatloaf in the oven and bake for 50-55 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160ºF (71ºC). Once done, let it rest outside the oven for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This resting time is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.

Serve your meatloaf slices warm, perhaps alongside a simple side salad or mashed potatoes, and enjoy the nostalgic flavors of a cheeseburger in a whole new format! Your family and friends will love this twist on a classic favorite.

For more tips on meatloaf variations, check out this guide on meatloaf recipes. Happy cooking!

Fun Variations on Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Who says meatloaf has to be boring? Here are a couple of exciting takes on cheeseburger meatloaf that will tantalize your taste buds.

Add Some Spice: Jalapeño Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Looking to turn up the heat? Add diced jalapeños to the meat mixture for a zesty kick. Pair it with pepper jack cheese for an extra layer of flavor. This spicy take will satisfy those craving a bit of adventure on their plates.

Healthier Twist: Turkey Cheeseburger Meatloaf

For a lighter option, swap out beef for ground turkey. This turkey cheeseburger meatloaf is packed with protein while keeping calories in check. You’ll still enjoy the same classic flavors with reduced fat, making it a great weeknight dish for health-conscious foodies.

By experimenting with these fun variations, you can easily customize your cheeseburger meatloaf to suit any palate! For even more ideas and inspiration, check out this healthy cooking guide or ways to spice up your meals.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Ensure Even Cooking with a Meat Thermometer

Investing in a meat thermometer is a game-changer for cooking your cheeseburger meatloaf to perfection! Aim for an internal temperature of 160ºF to ensure it's fully cooked and safe to eat. Insert the thermometer into the center of the meatloaf for the most accurate reading. This simple tool takes the guesswork out of meal prep, helping you avoid overcooking or undercooking your delicious dish!

Let It Rest Before Slicing

After pulling your decadent cheeseburger meatloaf from the oven, resist the urge to slice right away. Allow it to rest for about 5-10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meatloaf, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful. Enjoy the enticing aroma while you wait—it's worth it!

For more insights on cooking meatloaves, check out The Kitchn's helpful guide on making the ultimate meatloaf.

Serving Suggestions for Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Pairing with classic sides

Elevate your cheeseburger meatloaf experience by pairing it with classic sides. Think creamy mashed potatoes, sweet corn, or a crisp garden salad for freshness. A side of baked sweet potatoes or roasted vegetables adds a delightful balance. For a fun twist, try serving it with homemade fries or a colorful coleslaw.

Creative serving ideas

Want to take things up a notch? Slice the meatloaf into thick slabs and serve them on toasted burger buns, topped with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments. You can also crumble the meatloaf over a bed of greens for a delicious, hearty salad. Another unique approach is to slice it into bite-sized pieces for sliders—perfect for gatherings or game days.

For more inspiration, check out our guide on sides that complement meatloaf, or explore delicious salad ideas here.

Time Breakdown for Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Preparation time
Getting ready to make your cheeseburger meatloaf is quick and easy! You’ll need about 15 minutes to gather your ingredients and mix everything together.

Cooking time
Once your meatloaf is in the oven, it’ll take around 50-55 minutes to bake to perfection, ensuring it stays juicy and flavorful.

Total time
In total, you can whip up this delicious cheeseburger meatloaf in under 1 hour and 15 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight!

For more insights on recipe timing, check out The Kitchn’s timing guide.

Nutritional Facts for Cheeseburger Meatloaf

When it comes to cheeseburger meatloaf, understanding its nutritional profile can help you make informed choices. Here's a quick breakdown:

Calories
Each serving of this delicious meatloaf contains approximately 449 calories, making it a satisfying meal.

Protein
With around 28.65 grams of protein per serving, this dish is a fantastic option for those looking to boost their protein intake, perfect for active lifestyles.

Sodium
Keep in mind that it does contain about 1,100 mg of sodium, which is important to consider if you’re monitoring your salt intake.

For more comprehensive details about maintaining a balanced diet, you can check out Nutrition.gov for guidelines and tips. Enjoy your meal!

FAQs about Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Can I make cheeseburger meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! Preparing cheeseburger meatloaf ahead of time is a great way to save time on busy weeknights. You can assemble the meatloaf mixture and form it into shape, then cover it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if you're baking it straight from the fridge.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
For optimal freshness, wrap any leftover cheeseburger meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to enjoy it longer, consider freezing individual slices in freezer-safe bags. Just make sure to label them for easy identification!

How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
To ensure your cheeseburger meatloaf is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. It should read an internal temperature of 160ºF. If you don’t have a thermometer, check that the meatloaf is firm to the touch and juices run clear. For additional tips, check resources like USDA’s Cooking Meat and Poultry guidelines for safe cooking practices.

Conclusion on Cheeseburger Meatloaf

In summary, cheeseburger meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic dish that combines the comforting flavors of a cheeseburger with the heartiness of meatloaf. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is easy to make, full of flavor, and budget-friendly. Give it a try—you won't regret it!

For more tasty recipes, check out this resource on meatloaf variations or dive into the details of the health benefits of beef. Enjoy!