Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Meatloaf

The Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe combines two comfort food favorites—cheeseburgers and meatloaf—into one hearty dish. Packed with ground beef, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, it’s topped with a ketchup glaze that mimics the flavor of a classic cheeseburger. Moist, cheesy, and deeply satisfying, this recipe is perfect for family dinners, Sunday suppers, or when you want a nostalgic dish that feels familiar yet indulgent.

A Quick Glimpse at Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Meatloaf originated from European minced meat dishes but became a staple of American cuisine in the 20th century. Cheeseburger-inspired meatloaf is a modern variation that layers in cheese, ketchup, and mustard flavors for a comforting, diner-style twist. The Pioneer Woman’s take keeps it rustic, simple, and full of flavor.

Other Pioneer Woman Recipes

• Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Meatloaf
• Pioneer Woman Ground Chicken Meatloaf
• Pioneer Woman Meatloaf

Why This Recipe is Worth Trying

• Cheesy goodness – melty cheddar inside and on top.
• Family-friendly – tastes like a cheeseburger without the bun.
• Simple ingredients – uses pantry staples and everyday items.
• Versatile dish – works for dinner, meal prep, or leftovers.
• Classic glaze – balances savory beef with tangy-sweet ketchup topping.

Essential Ingredients for This Recipe

• Ground beef (2 lbs, lean)
• Breadcrumbs (1 cup, plain or seasoned)
• Milk (½ cup)
• Eggs (2 large, beaten)
• Onion (1 medium, finely chopped)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Worcestershire sauce (1 tbsp)
• Ketchup (2 tbsp, mixed in meatloaf + glaze)
• Yellow mustard (1 tsp, optional for burger flavor)
• Cheddar cheese (2 cups, shredded or cubed)
• Salt (1 tsp)
• Black pepper (½ tsp)

For the glaze:

• Ketchup (½ cup)
• Brown sugar (2 tbsp)
• Dijon mustard (1 tsp)

Useful Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Wooden spoon or hands for mixing
• Oven

Directions to Make Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Set oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a loaf pan.

Step 2: Prepare the mixture

In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let soak for 2 minutes. Add ground beef, eggs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire, ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.

Step 3: Add cheese

Fold in shredded or cubed cheddar cheese, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.

Step 4: Shape the loaf

Place the mixture into the loaf pan, smoothing the top lightly.

Step 5: Add glaze

Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread half the glaze over the meatloaf before baking.

Step 6: Bake

Bake uncovered for 45 minutes. Remove, add remaining glaze, and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 7: Serve

Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with mashed potatoes, fries, or roasted vegetables.

What I Got Wrong (And How I Fixed It)

• Dry texture – solved by adding milk-soaked breadcrumbs.
• Fell apart – fixed with extra egg as a binder.
• Cheese clumped – shredded cheese instead of large cubes for better distribution.
• Overly sweet glaze – balanced with Dijon mustard.

Healthier Ways to Make Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, swap breadcrumbs for oats, and opt for reduced-fat cheese. You can also add grated zucchini or carrots for extra nutrients.

Ingredient Substitutions for Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Meatloaf

• Swap cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Swiss.
• Use BBQ sauce instead of ketchup glaze for smoky flavor.
• Replace breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or almond flour.
• Add jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Unexpected Ways to Enjoy Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Meatloaf

• As sandwiches – leftover slices on toasted buns with pickles.
• With pasta – serve with marinara and noodles.
• In sliders – mini sandwiches with cheese and lettuce.
• Breakfast hash – pan-fry slices with eggs and potatoes.
• As a burger patty substitute – use slices between buns.

Best Tips for Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Meatloaf Success

• Don’t overmix – keeps texture tender.
• Use lean beef – prevents excess grease.
• Rest before slicing – helps the loaf hold shape.
• Layer glaze twice – gives a caramelized finish.
• Grate onion – keeps the loaf moist without chunks.

Tasty Twists on Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Meatloaf

• Bacon cheeseburger meatloaf – wrap the loaf in bacon before baking.
• Tex-Mex version – add taco seasoning and pepper jack cheese.
• Italian twist – swap glaze with marinara and mozzarella.
• Mushroom-Swiss style – add sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese.
• Spicy version – mix in hot sauce and jalapeños.

Best Ways to Store Your Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Meatloaf

• Refrigerate – wrap tightly, lasts 3–4 days.
• Freeze – store slices or whole loaf up to 2 months.
• Store glaze separately – apply fresh glaze when reheating.

Ways to Warm It Up Again

• Oven method – reheat at 325°F for 15–20 minutes wrapped in foil.
• Microwave – heat slices for 1–2 minutes.
• Air fryer – 350°F for 4–5 minutes for crisp edges.

Nutritional Breakdown (per slice, 1 of 8)

• Calories: ~390
• Protein: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fat: 23g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: ~620mg

FAQs

Where did cheeseburger meatloaf originate?

Cheeseburger meatloaf is an American comfort food variation that combines traditional meatloaf with the flavors of a cheeseburger. It became popular in the mid-20th century when families began adapting classic dishes into creative, diner-inspired meals.

How do you keep cheeseburger meatloaf from falling apart?

To keep cheeseburger meatloaf from crumbling, use binders like eggs and milk-soaked breadcrumbs. Allowing the loaf to rest for 10 minutes after baking also helps it firm up before slicing.

Can you prepare Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, cheeseburger meatloaf can be made ahead. Assemble the loaf, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. It can also be frozen raw and baked later with additional cooking time.

Why is my cheeseburger meatloaf dry?

Cheeseburger meatloaf can dry out if baked too long or made with overly lean beef. Adding cheese, milk-soaked breadcrumbs, and using an internal thermometer ensures the loaf stays moist and tender.

Wrapping It Up

The Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a fun and flavorful take on two classic dishes. With gooey cheddar, juicy beef, and a tangy glaze, it’s hearty, nostalgic, and family-approved. Whether served fresh from the oven or enjoyed as leftovers in sandwiches, this recipe is guaranteed to become a regular part of your dinner rotation.

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