Sautee onions and garlic until tender. For more flavor you can also grill the onions.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onions, garlic, bread crumbs, eggs, ketchup, salt and pepper.
Mix well. with your hands.
Pat the meat mixture gently into a loaf pan. You may need 2 if you are using small ones. Don't press it down because it will compact the meat and the texture will be off.
Add three slices bacon over top.
Bake in the preheated oven 45 minutes to an hour (internal temp will be 155- 160)
Just before removing from the oven lay the cheese over the top.
Allow to stand at room temperature with foil over the top for about five minutes.