Cheeseburger Logs
Cheeseburger Logs offer a savory twist on classic burgers, combining tender ground beef with tomatoes, bread crumbs, and melted American cheese. Perfect for casual family dinners or gatherings, these flavorful loaves are crusty on the outside and juicy inside, delivering comfort and satisfying tastes in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Combine stewed tomatoes and bread crumbs in a large bowl; let stand until liquid is absorbed.
- Lightly mix in ground beef, egg, horseradish mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Divide mixture into four portions, then shape each into a 5-inch loaf; make a ridge down the middle of each with your finger.
- Place loaves on a rack in a shallow baking pan.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- Spoon shredded American cheese into hollows in each loaf.
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes or until cheese melts and loaves are crusty brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or diced onions to the beef mixture. You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option or use whole wheat bread crumbs for a healthier twist. If you prefer a spicy kick, try adding a dash of hot sauce. For a different cheese experience, swap the American cheese with cheddar or pepper jack.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheeseburger logs with a side of crispy fries or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with a tangy dipping sauce like ranch or a zesty ketchup. For a fun twist, serve them alongside Betty Jane'S Onion Soup for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the cheeseburger logs in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for about 1-2 minutes, but the oven method helps maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheeseburger Logs contains roughly 244 calories, with 8g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2208mg per serving (96% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cheeseburger logs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the logs in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and bake them when you're ready to enjoy. This makes them a convenient option for meal prep or entertaining.
What can I use instead of stewed tomatoes?
If you don't have stewed tomatoes, diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes can work well as a substitute. For a thicker mixture, you might also consider using tomato sauce or purée. Adjust the seasoning to your taste if using plain canned tomatoes.
Can I freeze the cheeseburger logs?
Absolutely! After shaping the logs, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).