– 2 pounds ground beef (preferably 80/20)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup ketchup (plus more for topping)
– 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
– 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Creating the amazing Cheeseburger Meatloaf is straightforward with these easy steps:
1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the meatloaf cooks evenly.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, ground mustard, and eggs. If you are using bacon, add it to the mix.
3. Combine Thoroughly: Use your hands or a spatula to combine all ingredients until they are well mixed. Avoid excessive handling, though, to keep the meatloaf tender.
4. Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or a lined loaf pan. Form it into a loaf shape, ensuring even thickness.
5. Top with Ketchup: Spread a layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf. This adds moisture and flavor during cooking.
6. Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven. Bake for about 50-55 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
7. Rest: Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute.
8. Slice and Serve: After resting, slice the meatloaf into even pieces and serve immediately.
By following these simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating the most delicious Cheeseburger Meatloaf!