Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, ranch dressing, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
- Spread ketchup over the top of the meatloaf for that classic glaze.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Enjoy every bite of your Bacon Ranch Cheeseburger Meatloaf!
Best ways to enjoy it
This meatloaf shines on its own, but pairing it with steaming mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad can elevate your meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider serving it on toasted hamburger buns with additional ranch drizzled on top for a delightful sandwich twist. You can also complement it with roasted veggies or French fries for a complete, comforting dinner experience.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftovers can be a blessing! To keep your Bacon Ranch Cheeseburger Meatloaf fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, wrapping individual slices in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag can extend its life to about 2–3 months. Just remember, when reheating, make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Helpful cooking tips
- For added moisture, consider mixing in some grated zucchini or finely chopped mushrooms along with the meat; they’ll cook down and keep the meatloaf tender.
- To boost the flavor of your meatloaf even more, let your mixture marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes before shaping and baking.
- If you have extra ranch dressing on hand, serve it as a dipping sauce alongside your meatloaf for added flavor!
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? There are many fun variations you could try! How about adding jalapeños for a spicy kick, or using different types of cheese like pepper jack or smoked gouda? You can even substitute the bacon with crispy turkey bacon or a vegetarian option for a meatless version. The possibilities are endless!
Common questions
- What’s the prep time? The preparation takes about 10 minutes, and baking will take an additional 45–50 minutes.
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative that still provides a deliciously moist meatloaf.
- How do I know when it’s fully cooked? Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
With this Bacon Ranch Cheeseburger Meatloaf, you can savor the comfort of home-cooked goodness while enjoying unique and bold flavors that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. Happy cooking!
