If you’re a fan of juicy cheeseburgers and hearty meatloaf, then this Cheeseburger Meatloaf recipe is about to become your new favorite dish! Combining the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the comforting goodness of meatloaf, this recipe is not only delicious but also keto-friendly and low-carb. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping, this meatloaf is packed with protein, flavor, and cheesy goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cheeseburger meatloaf is a game-changer for those following a low-carb or keto diet. It’s packed with all the flavors you love in a cheeseburger—juicy ground beef, savory onions, and gooey cheddar cheese—but without the carbs from the bun. The addition of grated Parmesan cheese not only helps bind the meatloaf together but also adds a rich, umami flavor that takes this dish to the next level.
With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is easy to throw together and can be on your table in just over an hour. Plus, it’s a great way to satisfy those comfort food cravings without derailing your low-carb lifestyle.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious keto cheeseburger meatloaf, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef: Choose ground beef with a higher fat content (like 80/20) for a juicier meatloaf.
- 2 eggs: Help bind the meatloaf together.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds flavor and helps hold the meatloaf together without the need for breadcrumbs.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Provides a classic savory flavor.
- 2 teaspoons salt: Enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlicky flavor that complements the beef.
- ½ cup cheddar cheese, cut into cubes: Melts into gooey pockets of cheesy goodness throughout the meatloaf.
How to Make Cheeseburger Meatloaf (Keto/Low Carb)
Follow these simple steps to make your own keto-friendly cheeseburger meatloaf:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese
Cut the cheddar cheese into small cubes. This will allow the cheese to melt into the meatloaf, creating delicious pockets of gooeyness throughout.
Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, diced onion, salt, and garlic powder. Use your hands or a large spoon to gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense and tough.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Gently fold the cubed cheddar cheese into the meatloaf mixture. Try to distribute the cheese cubes evenly throughout the mixture so that each slice of meatloaf has some cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Shape the Meatloaf
Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared baking pan. Shape it into a loaf, pressing gently to ensure it holds together but not packing it too tightly.
Step 6: Bake the Meatloaf
Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the top is browned. If you have a meat thermometer, this is the best way to ensure the meatloaf is cooked through without drying out.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes for easier slicing. Garnish with sugar-free ketchup and freshly chopped parsley, if desired, and enjoy!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl: For mixing the meatloaf ingredients.
- Baking pan: For baking the meatloaf. A loaf pan or a shallow baking dish works well.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping the onion and cubing the cheese.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurately measuring the ingredients.
- Spatula or spoon: For mixing the ingredients together.
