Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Drain on paper towels and crumble into small pieces.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Add 1/4 cup of the BBQ sauce to the bowl and mix everything until evenly combined.
Shape the mixture into a loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Brush the top with the remaining 1/4 cup BBQ sauce.
To freeze, wrap the uncooked loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Label and freeze for up to three months.
When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge. Bake at 375°F for 45 to 55 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.