Cheeseburger Stuffed Meatloaf Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic with a Twist

When it comes to comfort food, meatloaf has always been a timeless favorite. It’s hearty, filling, and perfect for family dinners. But what happens when you combine the classic flavors of a cheeseburger with traditional meatloaf? You get the ultimate cheeseburger stuffed meatloaf — a juicy ground beef loaf filled with gooey melted cheese and tangy pickles, topped with a golden cheesy crust. This dish brings together everything you love about burgers and meatloaf in one delicious bite.

Why You’ll Love Cheeseburger Stuffed Meatloaf

This recipe is the perfect mix of nostalgia and creativity. It has the savory, juicy texture of meatloaf with a cheesy surprise inside that takes it to another level. The pickles add a tangy crunch that balances out the richness of the cheese and beef, making each slice irresistible. It’s easy enough to prepare on a weeknight but impressive enough to serve at a dinner party or family gathering. Plus, it’s a great way to upgrade the traditional meatloaf into something fun and memorable.

Ingredients for Cheeseburger Stuffed Meatloaf

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this comforting dish:

• 2 lbs (900g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• 1 cup pickles, sliced (dill pickles work best)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1/4 cup ketchup (for topping, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and seasonings. Mix gently until everything is incorporated, but avoid overmixing as it can make the meatloaf dense.

Step 2: Shape the Meatloaf Base

Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper. Spread half of the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan, pressing gently to form the base layer.

Step 3: Add the Cheeseburger Filling

Layer the sliced pickles evenly over the meat mixture, then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese on top. This creates the delicious gooey cheeseburger-style center.

Step 4: Seal with the Remaining Meat Mixture

Place the remaining ground beef mixture on top, pressing around the edges to seal the filling inside. Smooth the top with a spatula or spoon.

Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the meatloaf uncovered for 40–45 minutes. Remove from the oven, then spread ketchup on top if desired, and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese over the surface. Return to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and makes slicing easier. Cut into thick slices and serve warm.

Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Stuffed Meatloaf

• Don’t overmix the meat: Mixing too much will make the meatloaf tough. Combine ingredients just until they come together.
• Choose the right beef: Use ground beef with some fat content (around 80/20) for juicier meatloaf.
• Add extra cheese: For an even cheesier version, mix shredded cheese into the meat mixture as well.
• Use a loaf pan or shape freeform: If you prefer, you can shape the meatloaf by hand and bake it on a sheet pan for more browned edges.
• Rest before slicing: This prevents the cheese from oozing out too quickly and keeps slices neat.

Variations to Try

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Wrap strips of bacon around the meatloaf before baking. The bacon adds smokiness and keeps the meat juicy.

Spicy Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Add sliced jalapeños or spicy pickles along with the cheese filling for a kick of heat.

BBQ Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Replace the ketchup topping with barbecue sauce for a smoky-sweet twist.

Low-Carb Option

Swap the breadcrumbs for almond flour or crushed pork rinds to make this meatloaf keto-friendly.

Side Dishes to Serve with Cheeseburger Stuffed Meatloaf

This hearty dish pairs perfectly with classic comfort food sides. Here are some great options:

• Mashed potatoes with gravy
• Roasted or baked potato wedges
• Steamed green beans or broccoli
• A crisp garden salad
• Macaroni and cheese for the ultimate comfort combo

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and assemble the meatloaf up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator, then bake when ready.

Can I freeze cheeseburger stuffed meatloaf?

Absolutely. Bake the meatloaf, allow it to cool, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How do I prevent meatloaf from falling apart?

The combination of eggs and breadcrumbs helps bind the meat together. If your mixture feels too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs until it holds its shape.

What type of cheese works best?

Mozzarella and cheddar are both excellent choices. Mozzarella gives a stretchy, melty center, while cheddar provides a sharp flavor. You can even mix the two for the best of both worlds.

Why This Recipe Works

This cheeseburger stuffed meatloaf combines all the flavors you love in a burger — beef, cheese, pickles, and seasonings — but transforms them into a cozy baked dish. The gooey cheese center and golden topping make it extra special, while the pickles add just the right amount of tang. It’s hearty, family-friendly, and always a hit at the dinner table.

Conclusion

Cheeseburger stuffed meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food mashup. It takes the classic, beloved flavors of a cheeseburger and layers them into a juicy, cheesy meatloaf that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a fun twist on traditional meatloaf, a kid-friendly dinner idea, or a dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers. Try it once and it will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience in every bite.