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Savory Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe with Cheddar and Pickle Relish

savory cheeseburger meatloaf - featured image

A quick and easy meatloaf recipe combining sharp cheddar cheese and tangy pickle relish for a juicy, flavorful twist on classic comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 4 ounces)
  • ½ cup pickle relish (sweet or dill)
  • ¾ cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • ½ cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ¼ cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon mustard (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until combined.
  3. Stir in the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and pickle relish.
  4. Add the breadcrumbs, salt (about 1 teaspoon), and freshly ground black pepper (about ½ teaspoon). Stir to distribute evenly.
  5. Gently mix in the ground beef using a spatula or your hands, being careful not to overmix.
  6. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese evenly without clumping.
  7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and press gently to form an even loaf.
  8. Mix the ketchup with the mustard (if using) and spread evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  9. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). If the topping browns too much, loosely cover with foil.
  10. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Avoid overmixing the meat to keep the meatloaf tender. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F for safety and juiciness. Rest the meatloaf before slicing for cleaner cuts. For a crispier top, broil for 2-3 minutes after baking. Substitute almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers for breadcrumbs to make it gluten-free.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, cheeseburger meatloaf, cheddar cheese, pickle relish, comfort food, easy dinner, ground beef recipe