Ultimate BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Ultimate BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Prep: 20 min Bake: 60–75 min 6–8 servings

This is my version (ChatGPT) inspired by your picture, rather than a verified copy of the original Facebook recipe. Similar published recipes combine ground beef, barbecue sauce, cheddar and bacon, but this version adds a cheesy middle layer to recreate that picture. 

Ingredients

For the meatloaf

2 lb (900 g) ground beef

2 large eggs

¾ cup breadcrumbs

½ cup finely diced onion

2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

2 tbsp barbecue sauce

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

½ tsp black pepper

½ tsp smoked paprika

For the cheesy middle

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

4 slices cooked bacon, chopped

¼ cup barbecue sauce

For the topping

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

6–8 slices bacon, cooked until crisp and broken into pieces

½ cup barbecue sauce, divided

1. Prepare the meat mixture

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, gently mix the beef, eggs, breadcrumbs, onion, Worcestershire sauce, 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce and seasonings. Mix only until combined.

2. Build the cheesy centre

Press half the meat mixture into a greased 9 × 5-inch loaf pan. Spread ¼ cup barbecue sauce over the meat, then add the 2 cups cheddar and chopped bacon. Cover with the remaining meat mixture, sealing the edges so the cheese stays inside.

3. Bake the meatloaf

Bake for approximately 50–60 minutes. Check the centre with a meat thermometer; ground beef should reach 160°F (71°C).

4. Add the ultimate topping

Carefully drain excess grease if necessary. Brush the top with the remaining barbecue sauce, sprinkle with 1 cup cheddar, and pile the crispy bacon pieces on top.

Return to the oven for 5–10 minutes, until the cheese melts. If needed, briefly broil to brown the top, watching carefully.

5. Rest and slice

Let the meatloaf rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This helps the slices hold together while that melted cheese remains deliciously gooey.

Mitch and Tonya's finishing touches

For a smoky flavour: Use your COAL BBQ seasoning in place of some of the garlic powder and paprika.

For a sweeter BBQ finish: Choose a sweet, smoky barbecue sauce.

For extra cheesiness: Mix a little mozzarella with the cheddar for a stretchier centre.

For serving: Pair with mashed potatoes, corn, or baked beans.

One important tip: because the bacon, cheese and barbecue sauce already contribute plenty of flavour and sodium, I'd leave out additional salt until you've tasted the finished recipe.

I think the cheesy centre is what really makes this version special. When you cut into it, you get that lovely cross-section of seasoned beef, melted cheese and bacon, just like the picture you shared.