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Cozy BBQ Meatloaf Burger

BBQ meatloaf burger - featured image

A comforting and flavorful summer burger using meatloaf as the patty, slathered in smoky BBQ sauce and grilled to perfection. This easy recipe delivers juicy, tangy, and cozy bites perfect for backyard gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • ½ cup bread crumbs (50g), plain or seasoned
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • ½ cup finely chopped onion (yellow onion preferred)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce (120ml), plus extra for basting and serving
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 4 sturdy burger buns
  • Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, crispy onions

Instructions

  1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 375°F/190°C). Finely chop onion and mince garlic.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, BBQ sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  3. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz/115g each) and shape into thick burger patties. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb.
  4. Place patties on the grill or pan. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, brushing extra BBQ sauce on top as they cook, aiming for a caramelized exterior and juicy center. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  5. In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and close the grill lid or cover the pan to melt the cheese. Toast burger buns lightly on the grill until golden.
  6. Assemble burgers by placing the cheesy meatloaf patty on the bottom bun, adding desired toppings, spreading extra BBQ sauce on the top bun, and serving immediately while warm.

Notes

Do not overmix the meatloaf mixture to avoid dense burgers. Make a thumb indentation in patties to prevent puffing. Brush BBQ sauce frequently during grilling for a sticky glaze. Let burgers rest a few minutes before serving. Toast buns to prevent sogginess. Use a meat thermometer to ensure safe cooking temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ meatloaf burger, summer burger, grilled meatloaf, backyard BBQ, comfort food, easy burger recipe