Ingredients

3

slices bread, torn into small pieces

1/2

cup milk

1 1/2

lb lean (at least 80%) ground beef

8

slices bacon, crisply cooked and crumbled

1

cup finely shredded sharp Cheddar cheese (4 oz)

1/4

cup dill pickle relish

1/2

cup finely chopped onion

1

clove garlic, finely chopped

1

egg, slightly beaten

1/3

cup ketchup

1

tablespoon packed brown sugar

Preparation

Heat oven to 350°F. Line 9x5-inch loaf pan with foil; spray foil with cooking spray.

In large bowl, mix bread and milk. Let stand 5 minutes to absorb milk. Add beef, all but 2 tablespoons of the bacon, the shredded cheese, relish, onion, garlic and egg. Mix until well combined. Shape mixture into 8x4-inch loaf. Place in pan.

In small bowl, stir together Topping ingredients. Spread on top and sides of loaf. Top with reserved 2 tablespoons crumbled bacon.

Bake uncovered 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes or until meat thermometer inserted in center of loaf reads 160°F. Cool 10 minutes.

Cut meatloaf into slices to serve. Top with desired burger toppings, such as pickle relish, ketchup and mustard.