Ingredients

• 3 slices bread, torn into small pieces
• ½ cup milk
• 1 ½ lbs. lean (at least 80%) ground beef
• 8 slices bacon
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup dill pickle relish
• ½ cup finely chopped onion
• 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp. ketchup
• ½ tsp. ground black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten

Topping

• ⅓ cup ketchup
• 1 tbsp. packed brown sugar

Directions

1. Heat oven to 350°F. Prepare 9×5 inch loaf pan, spray cooking spray.
2. In bowl, mix bread and milk. Set aside to absorb milk.
3. In large bowl, combine beef, all but 2 tbsp. of the bacon, the shredded cheese, relish, onion, garlic, ketchup, pepper, and egg. Mix until well combined. Add the soaked bread and gently mix (mix with your hands), trying to keep the mixture light. Shape mixture into 8×4 inch loaf. Place in pan.
4. In small bowl, stir together topping ingredients. Spread on top and sides of loaf. Sprinkle top with 2 tbsp. crumbled bacon.
5. Bake uncovered 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes or until meat thermometer inserted in center of loaf reads 160°F. Rest for 10 minutes.
6. Cut meatloaf into slices to serve. Top with favorite burger toppings, such as sliced onions, pickle relish, ketchup, and mustard.