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There’s nothing quite like the sound of sizzling bacon wafting through the kitchen, instantly igniting a craving for comfort food. Imagine merging the nostalgic, hearty flavors of meatloaf with the fun and versatility of a burger. That’s precisely what you get with Chef John’s Bacon-Topped Grilled Meatloaf Burgers. These juicy, smoky creations promise to elevate your grilling game, transforming ordinary meals into unforgettable experiences. Perfect for backyard BBQs with friends or cozy family dinners, this recipe is both straightforward and customizable, catering to all taste buds.

What makes these burgers truly special is the rich combination of ground beef, pork, and, of course, crispy bacon, all grilled to perfection. Picture the satisfying crunch and savory explosion in every bite! Whether you’re looking to delight your dinner guests or simply want to enjoy a hearty weeknight meal, these burgers not only fulfill the craving but also inspire your culinary creativity. Get ready to fire up the grill and embark on a flavorful journey with this ultimate comfort food burger!

Why choose Chef John’s Bacon-Topped Grilled Meatloaf Burgers?

Indulgent Flavors: The delightful fusion of juicy beef, moist pork, and crispy bacon creates a savory sensation that will tantalize your taste buds.

Customizable Options: Easily adapt this recipe to suit everyone’s preferences—whether you prefer spicy, cheesy, or loaded with fresh toppings!

Perfect for Gatherings: Ideal for BBQs, these burgers bring the family together and are guaranteed to impress your guests.

Quick and Easy: With straightforward instructions, you can whip up these mouthwatering burgers without a hassle—perfect for busy weeknights!

Ultimate Comfort Food: Savoring each bite combines nostalgia with modern flair, making this a go-to recipe for every comfort food lover.

Chef John’s Bacon-Topped Grilled Meatloaf Burgers Ingredients

For the Burger Patties
• Ground Beef – Provides a robust flavor; choose lean variants for a lighter option.
• Ground Pork – Adds necessary moisture and enhances flavor; turkey can be a great substitute.
• Bacon – Brings a delicious crunch and smoky richness; try turkey bacon for a healthier version.
• Finely Chopped Onion – Infuses the patties with sweetness; shallots work as an ideal substitute.
• Garlic (minced) – Elevates the taste profile; use garlic powder if fresh isn’t on hand.
• Milk – Binds everything together while adding moisture; almond or oat milk can replace for a dairy-free option.
• Breadcrumbs – Provides stability to the patties; gluten-free breadcrumbs are perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
• Large Egg – Helps bind the mixture; for a vegan twist, a flax egg can do the trick.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Adds a deep umami flavor; liquid aminos offer a nice vegan alternative.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance flavor; adjust to your taste preference.

For Assembly
• Hamburger Buns – Holds your delicious creation; opt for whole grain or gluten-free for healthier choices.
• Condiments (ketchup, mustard, etc.) – Provides a customizable flavor kick; feel free to adapt based on your own preferences.

These ingredients come together to make Chef John’s Bacon-Topped Grilled Meatloaf Burgers an unforgettable meal, perfectly embodying comfort food that’s both BBQ-friendly and customizable.

How to Make Chef John’s Bacon-Topped Grilled Meatloaf Burgers

Preheat the Grill: Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, which should take about 10-15 minutes. A hot grill ensures a great sear on the burgers!
Cook the Bacon: In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it turns crispy—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. When done, drain and chop it finely to add that perfect smoky crunch.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, chopped bacon, onion, garlic, milk, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined but avoid overmixing to keep the burgers tender!
Form the Patties: Shape the mixture into 4 equal patties, making a slight indent in the middle of each to prevent puffing while cooking.
Grill the Patties: Place the patties on the preheated grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You want them juicy and well-cooked!
Toast the Buns: Place the hamburger buns on the grill for about 1 minute, until they are golden brown and slightly toasted. This adds an extra crunch!
Assemble the Burgers: Stack your grilled patties on the toasted buns, layering with your favorite condiments and toppings to create a burger masterpiece!
Serve and Enjoy: Serve your delicious burgers immediately alongside crispy fries, coleslaw, or grilled veggies for a complete meal experience.

Optional: Add fresh herbs or pickles for a burst of flavor!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

Chef John’s Bacon-Topped Grilled Meatloaf Burgers are a fantastic meal prep choice for busy home cooks! You can mix the burger ingredients (ground beef, ground pork, bacon, onion, garlic, milk, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate the mixture, which keeps the flavors fresh without compromising quality. Additionally, you can form the patties and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days; just layer parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. When it’s time to cook, grill the patties as instructed—this means delicious, juicy burgers ready in less time, perfect for effortless weeknight dinners!

How to Store and Freeze Chef John’s Bacon-Topped Grilled Meatloaf Burgers

Fridge: Store cooked burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their moisture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked patties individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Reheat burgers on the grill or stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes. This brings back their juicy goodness!

Thawing: When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain the best texture for Chef John’s Bacon-Topped Grilled Meatloaf Burgers.

Expert Tips for Chef John’s Bacon-Topped Grilled Meatloaf Burgers

Preheat Properly: Ensure your grill is fully preheated to medium-high heat before cooking. This step is crucial for achieving a perfect sear and juicy burgers.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the meat just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough patties, robbing your burgers of their juicy tenderness.
Don’t Press the Patties: Resist the urge to press down on the burgers while grilling. This practice releases their natural juices, making them dry instead of flavorful and juicy.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To guarantee doneness, use a meat thermometer. Cook your patties until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safe and delicious results.
Experiment with Toppings: Personalize your burgers by trying different toppings and condiments. Chef John’s Bacon-Topped Grilled Meatloaf Burgers are the perfect base for your culinary creativity!

What to Serve with Chef John’s Bacon-Topped Grilled Meatloaf Burgers?

Elevate your grilling experience with these delightful sides that accompany each juicy bite of bliss!

Crispy French Fries: The classic sidekick that provides a crunchy contrast to the savory burger, making each meal satisfyingly complete.
Fresh Coleslaw: A refreshing blend of crunchy cabbage and tangy dressing that adds a zesty edge and balances the rich flavors of the burgers.
Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful bell peppers and zucchini grilled to perfection offer a smoky sweetness that complements the meaty goodness.
Potato Salad: Creamy and comforting, this side dish brings nostalgia to outdoor gatherings and pairs wonderfully with the smoky flavors of the burgers.
Baked Beans: The rich, slightly sweet flavor of baked beans enhances the BBQ vibe, making it the perfect match for those meatloaf burgers.
Sweet Tea or Lemonade: A cool drink lightens each bite, providing a refreshing contrast to the smokiness of the burgers.

Enjoying your Chef John’s Bacon-Topped Grilled Meatloaf Burgers alongside any of these sides will surely create a meal that’s memorable and delightfully satisfying!

Variations & Substitutions for Chef John’s Bacon-Topped Grilled Meatloaf Burgers

Feel free to make this recipe your own by adding fun twists and substitutions that will delight your taste buds!

Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a zesty kick that’ll turn up the heat.
Mix it in well, and prepare for an explosion of flavor with every bite!
Herbaceous Flair: Toss in fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or thyme to enhance aroma and flavor.
Not only will it add freshness, but it’ll also elevate the overall taste profile of your burgers.
Cheesy Indulgence: Blend in your favorite cheese, such as sharp cheddar or creamy Swiss, directly into the patties for a rich, melty surprise.
Just imagine that gooey goodness in the center of each burger—pure comfort!
Savory Veggie Mix: Incorporate finely diced bell peppers or mushrooms into the ground meat for added texture and flavor.
This will not only amp up the taste but also increase the nutrition, making each bite a little more wholesome.
Gluten-Free: Swap traditional breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed oats to accommodate dietary needs while still achieving perfect patties.
You won’t even miss the gluten, as these substitutions maintain the delicious texture!
Vegan Version: For a plant-based alternative, use lentils or chickpeas instead of meat, and consider a flax egg to bind it all together.
This variation proves that comfort food can be enjoyed no matter your dietary preferences!
Toppings Galore: Experiment with different toppings like avocado, jalapeños, or a drizzle of tangy aioli for an extra burst of flavor on your burgers.
A little creativity with toppings can transform a good burger into an unforgettable culinary experience!
Bun Alternatives: Go for lettuce wraps for a low-carb option or use portobello mushroom caps as a hearty bun substitute.
This not only changes the texture but also brings a unique flavor twist to every burger bite!

Chef John’s Bacon-Topped Grilled Meatloaf Burgers Recipe FAQs

What kind of bacon should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! Using crispy bacon is essential for that smoky richness. You can opt for regular pork bacon for an indulgent flavor, or turkey bacon if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just ensure it’s cooked until crispy, as that texture will complement the juicy burgers perfectly!

How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Very easily! Cooked burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy these delightful meals again without any hassle. Just reheat them on the grill or stovetop to restore their juiciness!

Can I freeze the burger patties? How do I do it correctly?
Of course! Freezing is a great way to preserve these delicious burgers. After cooking and cooling them down, individually wrap each patty in plastic wrap, then place them into a freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the grill or stovetop until warmed through!

What should I do if my burger mixture seems crumbly?
Very good question! This can sometimes happen if you haven’t added enough moisture. If your burger mixture appears crumbly, drizzle in a bit more milk or add an extra egg to help bind it together. Make sure not to overmix as it could lead to tough patties; just gently combine until everything is incorporated!

Are there any allergy considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! This recipe contains gluten (in the breadcrumbs and buns), dairy (in the milk and egg), and pork (in the bacon and ground pork). For gluten-free options, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns. If you have dairy allergies, consider substituting milk with almond or oat milk and using a flax egg. Always adjust the recipe to accommodate any dietary restrictions to ensure everyone can enjoy these flavorful burgers!