Bacon Cheeseburger Smoked Meatloaf
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The other night, it was the opening game for the Kansas City Chiefs, so my kids and my in-laws were here to watch the game. Of course, we had dinner, too. I served up this man-pleasing bacon cheeseburger smoked meatloaf.
This meatloaf includes ground beef, ground pork, bacon, and cheddar cheese! All my football fans were so happy with this dish! It was even mentioned that it may be better than my other smoked bbq meatloaf recipe. I also served it along with my family favorite smoked cheesy potato casserole. However, my easy smoked mashed potatoes would have also been a great accompaniment.
Meatloaf is an excellent option for smoking on a weekday since it only takes about an hour and a half to cook. I cooked the bacon the night before. Then, the next day, when I got home from work, I quickly mixed up the meatloaf and put it on the smoker.
Ingredients to Make Bacon Cheeseburger Smoked Meatloaf
- EGGS
- GROUND BEEF
- GROUND PORK
- BACON
- ITALIAN PANKO BREAD CRUMBS
- MILK
- SEASONED SALT
- GARLIC POWDER
- ONION
- BLACK PEPPER
- SHARP CHEDDAR CHEESE
How to Make Smoked Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe
Preheat your pellet smoker to 325°F. While the smoker heats up, prepare an aluminum foil boat and place it on a metal wire cooling rack for easy handling. The foil boat is working as your loaf pan. Alternatively, you can use a half-sized aluminum pan if preferred.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined. Add the ground beef, ground pork, cooked bacon, bread crumbs, milk, diced onion, and seasonings. Mix the ingredients by hand using disposable food-safe gloves until everything is well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense. Once the mixture is combined, gently fold in the shredded cheese, ensuring it is evenly distributed without overworking the meat.
Shape the meat mixture into a large loaf. Place the loaf onto the prepared aluminum foil boat or into the half-sized aluminum pan. Set aside while you finish preparing the smoker.
When the smoker has reached 325°F, place the wire rack with the meatloaf directly onto the grill grates. Smoke the meatloaf for approximately 1 1/2 hours or until its internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use all ground beef instead of a mix of beef and pork?
Yes, you can use all ground beef if you prefer. However, using a mix of ground beef and pork adds extra flavor and moisture to the meatloaf. If using all ground beef, try using 80/20 ground beef to keep the meatloaf juicy.
Can I cook this in the oven instead of a smoker?
Absolutely! If you don’t have a smoker, you can bake the meatloaf in the oven at 350°F for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. You won’t get the smoky flavor, but it will still be delicious.
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just form the loaf, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to smoke or bake it.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for a bacon cheeseburger flavor, but you can also use other cheeses like pepper jack, mozzarella, or Swiss. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well.
Can I add a glaze to the meatloaf?
Yes! For a traditional meatloaf glaze, mix ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar and brush it over the top of the meatloaf during the last 10-15 minutes of smoking or baking. BBQ sauce will also work. This adds a tangy, sweet layer to complement the savory bacon cheeseburger flavors.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can warm slices in the microwave or oven until heated through. For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F to help retain the texture and moisture.
FOR MORE RECIPES LIKE THIS, TRY:
- Instant Pot Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes
- Meatloaf Sandwiches
- Sweet BBQ Meatloaf Meatballs
- Grilled Potatoes and Peppers
Bacon Cheeseburger Smoked Meatloaf
Real Mom Kitchen
Ingredients
- 2 eggs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground pork
- 8 slices bacon cooked and chopped
- ½ cup Italian Panko bread crumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 tsp seasoned salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ¼ cup yellow onion chopped
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
Instructions
- Preheat your smoker pellet smoker to 325 degrees. Prepare an aluminum foil boat and place it on a metal wire cooling rack or use a half-sized aluminum pan if you prefer.
- In a large bowl, whisk the eggs together.
- Add in the beef, pork, bacon, bread crumbs, milk, onion, and seasonings. Mix together. I like to use disposable food-safe gloves and mix it by hand. Then add the cheese and mix in. Be careful not to overmix it.
- Form the meat mixture into a large loaf. Place the loaf on the prepared foil boat or in an aluminum half sized pan. Set aside.
- When ready to smoke, place the metal cool rack with the meatloaf on in right on the grill grate.
- Smoke the meatloaf at 325 degrees for 1 1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees.
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
This recipe is adapted from Gimme Some Grilling.
