Smoked Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe: A Mouthwatering Twist on a Classic

Apply the Topping: Brush half of the ketchup mixture over the bacon-wrapped meatloaf. Reserve the remaining topping for later use.

Bake the Meatloaf: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour. After the first 30 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush with the remaining ketchup mixture.
- Continue baking for another 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (70°C) and the bacon is crispy.

Rest the Meatloaf: Once fully cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful meatloaf.
Slice and Serve: Carefully transfer the meatloaf to a serving platter. Slice into thick pieces and serve warm.

Tips for Success:

Meat Blend: Using a mix of ground beef and ground pork adds a rich depth of flavor and keeps the meatloaf moist.
Cheese Distribution: Shredded cheddar cheese melts evenly throughout the meatloaf, adding a delicious cheesy surprise in every bite.
Bacon Wrapping: Ensure the bacon slices overlap slightly to fully encase the meatloaf, preventing it from drying out during baking.
Resting Period: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps retain its shape and juiciness.