Grab For Eats The Paula Deen Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe is a flavorful twist on the classic meatloaf that brings together the juicy goodness of a cheeseburger with the hearty comfort of a homestyle loaf. With melty cheddar, savory ground beef, and bold seasonings, this meatloaf is not just a meal—it’s a cozy culinary hug. Perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends, this dish is as comforting as it is crowd-pleasing.
Paula Deen and Why She Is So Popular
Paula Deen is a celebrated American cook, TV personality, and restaurateur best known for her Southern-inspired comfort foods. She rose to fame through her Food Network shows, including Paula’s Home Cooking, and became a household name thanks to her warm personality and indulgent, down-home recipes. As the author of multiple best-selling cookbooks, Paula Deen has influenced countless home cooks with her signature flair for turning simple ingredients into soul-satisfying meals—like this cheeseburger meatloaf recipe.
Meatloaf Is A Slice of Culinary History
Meatloaf is a classic dish made by combining ground meat with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings, then forming it into a loaf shape and baking it. It has roots dating back to ancient Rome, where minced meat was combined with various ingredients. However, the modern version we know today became especially popular in America during the Great Depression as a way to stretch meats and feed families affordably.
In the U.S., meatloaf is a staple in the Midwest and South, often appearing on family dinner tables and restaurant menus alike. Countries like Germany (with their Hackbraten) and Belgium (serving meatloaf with cherries or bacon) have their own versions of this savory dish.
Popular Types of Meatloaf Around the World
Meatloaf takes on many forms depending on where it’s made:
- American Classic: Usually made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, and topped with ketchup.
- Italian-Style Meatloaf: Features Italian herbs, Parmesan cheese, and is sometimes wrapped in prosciutto.
- Mexican Meatloaf: Includes taco seasoning, green chiles, and spicy toppings like jalapeños.
- Vegetarian or Vegan Meatloaf: Made with lentils, mushrooms, or beans and seasoned to taste.
- Stuffed Meatloaf: Packed with ingredients like cheese, spinach, or boiled eggs for a surprise inside.
The Paula Deen Cheeseburger Meatloaf is a uniquely American spin, combining all the best elements of a cheeseburger and meatloaf in one delicious bake.
Paula Deen Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe Ingredients and Their Benefits
Every ingredient in the Paula Deen Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe contributes to the flavor—and even brings some surprising health benefits!
- Ground Beef: Rich in protein, iron, and vitamin B12. Fun fact: Ground chuck (used here) retains its shape well, making it ideal for meatloaf.
- Eggs: Act as a binder and add moisture. Eggs are a great source of choline, essential for brain health.
- Ketchup: Adds a sweet-tangy flavor. It also contains lycopene, an antioxidant found in tomatoes.
- Milk: Offers creaminess and keeps the loaf moist. Milk provides calcium and vitamin D.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Deepens the savory flavor and tenderizes the meat. It originated in England in the 1800s.
- Onion: Adds aromatic sweetness and texture. Onions are rich in antioxidants and may support heart health.
- Garlic: Offers bold flavor and immune-boosting properties. It’s a natural antibiotic with ancient medicinal roots.
- Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully into the loaf and provides a rich, creamy taste. Cheese is a great source of calcium and protein.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors. Black pepper also aids digestion.
Utensils You’ll Need for the Paula Deen Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe
To make this recipe with ease, gather these kitchen essentials:
- Mixing bowls
- Loaf pan or baking dish
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Cutting board & knife
- Cheese grater
- Oven mitts
How to Make the Paula Deen Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe
This meatloaf is incredibly easy to whip up with just a few basic kitchen staples. Here’s how to bring Paula Deen’s cheesy magic to your table:
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Paula Deen Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together 2 pounds of ground beef, 2 eggs, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a lightly greased baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup ketchup, ¼ cup milk, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, ½ finely chopped onion, and 1 minced garlic clove.
- Pour the ketchup mixture evenly over the meatloaf.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Cool slightly, slice, and serve warm.
Pairings That Complement the Paula Deen Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe
Looking for the perfect sidekick to this hearty dish? Here are some excellent pairings:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, this side adds an extra comfort factor.
- Steamed Green Beans or Broccoli: Light veggies provide freshness and balance to the richness.
- Mac & Cheese: For true Southern indulgence, serve this cheesy classic.
- Sweet Tea: A refreshing, Southern-style drink that’s perfect with meatloaf.
- Red Wine (Cabernet Sauvignon): Bold and rich, it pairs beautifully with beef.
When to Enjoy the Delicious Paula Deen Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe
This recipe is perfect for:
- Sunday Dinners
- Family Potlucks
- Casual Holiday Meals like Labor Day or Memorial Day
- Back-to-School Nights
- Comfort Food Fridays
- Birthdays or Celebrations
It’s versatile enough for both everyday meals and special occasions.
How to Make the Paula Deen Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe – It’s Irresistible!
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Loaf pan or baking dish
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Cutting board & knife
- Cheese Grater
- Oven mitts
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- ¼ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ onion finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together 2 pounds of ground beef, 2 eggs, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a lightly greased baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup ketchup, ¼ cup milk, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, ½ finely chopped onion, and 1 minced garlic clove.
- Combine with the meatloaf and cover with this.
- Pour the ketchup mixture evenly over the meatloaf.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Cool slightly, slice, and serve warm.
- Cool slightly, slice, and serve warm.
Tips
- Don’t overmix the meat—it can make the loaf dense.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (160°F is ideal).
- For extra cheesy goodness, mix some cheese into the meat as well as on top.
- Let the meatloaf rest 10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Swap cheddar with pepper jack for a spicy twist!
Nutrition
How to Store the Paula Deen Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe
Storing leftovers is simple:
- Refrigerator: Wrap slices in foil or store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 300°F until heated through, or microwave individual slices for 1–2 minutes.
Why You’ll Love the Paula Deen Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe
This Paula Deen Cheeseburger Meatloaf Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food with a twist. It delivers the nostalgic flavors of a cheeseburger in a hearty, sliceable form that’s easy to prepare and impossible not to love. Whether you’re cooking for your family or feeding a crowd, this recipe brings people together—and brings smiles to the table.
Another Meatloaf to Try:
If you’re looking for a different take on this classic dish, try our Progresso Bread Crumbs Meatloaf Recipe. It offers a unique texture and flavor thanks to the seasoned breadcrumbs and is just as simple and delicious as Paula Deen’s version.
