Hearty Bacon Cheeseburger Loaf (Printer-Friendly)
Savory ground beef loaf with crispy bacon, cheddar pockets, and a caramelized tangy glaze.
# What You'll Need:
→ Meat and Bacon
01 -
2 pounds lean ground beef
02 -
12 strips bacon, 6 chopped and 6 whole
→ Vegetables and Relish
03 -
¾ cup dill pickle relish, drained
04 -
¾ cup crispy fried onions, store-bought
→ Binders and Seasonings
05 -
2 large eggs
06 -
¾ cup panko bread crumbs
07 -
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
08 -
½ teaspoon liquid smoke
→ Cheese
09 -
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed
→ Glaze
10 -
½ cup ketchup
11 -
2 tablespoons brown sugar
12 -
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, drained pickle relish, crispy fried onions, eggs, panko bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke using your hands. Mix carefully to avoid overworking.
02 -
Add chopped bacon and cubed cheddar cheese to the mixture. Fold gently until evenly distributed without overmixing.
03 -
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a foil-lined 9x13-inch baking pan. Arrange whole bacon strips over the top, overlapping to cover fully.
04 -
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) using a meat thermometer.
05 -
Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Brush evenly on the loaf and return to the oven for 5 to 10 minutes to caramelize glaze and crisp bacon topping.
06 -
Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute and ensure the loaf holds together when sliced.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
Drain pickle relish thoroughly to prevent watery texture.
02 -
Use a meat thermometer to achieve perfect doneness without drying.
03 -
Resting the loaf before slicing maintains juiciness and shape.