BBQ Meatloaf Recipe
An easy, no-fail BBQ Meatloaf Recipe is perfect for any occasion. This dish combines the comfort of classic meatloaf with a delicious BBQ twist, making it a family favorite! The combination of smoky spices and a sweet, sticky glaze elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this BBQ meatloaf will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
- Flavor Packed – The blend of spices and liquid smoke adds depth and richness, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
- Versatile Dish – Ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep; it fits any occasion effortlessly.
- Crowd-Pleaser – The sweet and tangy BBQ sauce glaze makes it appealing to both kids and adults alike.
- Leftover Friendly – Enjoy the leftovers as sandwiches or in salads the next day for a delightful twist!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking your BBQ Meatloaf Recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Fork
- Rimmed sheet pan
- Aluminum foil (preferably nonstick)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl – A large bowl allows for easy mixing of ingredients without spillage.
- Rimmed sheet pan – It catches any drippings while baking, keeping your oven clean.
- Aluminum foil – Using nonstick foil makes for easy cleanup and ensures the meatloaf doesn’t stick.
Ingredients
Ingredients needed for this BBQ Meatloaf Recipe include:
For the Meatloaf Base
- 1/2 cup plain dried breadcrumbs
- 2 teaspoons Kosher salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1/2 teaspoon unsalted liquid smoke
- 2 pounds 80/20 ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, finely minced
For the Glaze
- 2/3 cup thick, sweet BBQ Sauce (separated)
How to Make BBQ Meatloaf Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a rimmed sheet pan by lining it with foil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl:
Use a fork to combine the breadcrumbs, Kosher salt, chili powder, black pepper, ground cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder until evenly mixed.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Add to the bowl:
Pour in the milk, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Step 4: Incorporate Ground Beef
Next:
1. Add the ground beef and minced onion into the mixture.
2. Mix with your hands until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Shape into a narrow loaf on the prepared pan.
Step 5: Apply BBQ Sauce & Bake
Pour half of the BBQ sauce over the meatloaf:
1. Bake for 35 minutes.
2. Remove from oven and carefully pour over remaining sauce.
3. Bake an additional 25 minutes.
Step 6: Rest & Serve
Let the meatloaf rest for about 15 minutes before slicing it into portions. Serve warm and enjoy this delicious BBQ Meatloaf Recipe!
How to Serve BBQ Meatloaf Recipe
Serving BBQ Meatloaf is a delightful experience that can be customized to suit any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together, these suggestions will elevate your meal.
Classic Comfort
- Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes pair perfectly with the smoky flavors of the meatloaf.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the meatloaf.
Sandwich Style
- Meatloaf Sandwich – Slice the leftover meatloaf and serve it in a bun with extra BBQ sauce for a delicious sandwich.
- Pickles – Add some dill pickles on the side for an extra burst of flavor and crunch.
Family Feast
- Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds sweetness and complements the savory meatloaf.
- Baked Beans – Sweet and smoky baked beans are a classic side that pairs wonderfully with BBQ dishes.
How to Perfect BBQ Meatloaf Recipe
Achieving the perfect BBQ Meatloaf requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your meatloaf turns out delicious every time.
- Use Quality Meat – Choose 80/20 ground beef for the right balance of fat and flavor.
- Don’t Overmix – Mix gently when combining ingredients to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Rest Before Slicing – Allowing the meatloaf to rest helps retain its juices, making it more flavorful.
- Experiment with Spices – Feel free to adjust spices based on your taste preferences for added depth.
- Use a Thermometer – Check for doneness with an internal temperature of 160°F for safety.
Best Side Dishes for BBQ Meatloaf Recipe
Complementing your BBQ Meatloaf with delicious sides enhances your meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread is perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate.
- Potato Salad – A creamy potato salad provides a hearty side that pairs well with BBQ flavors.
- Macaroni and Cheese – This indulgent dish brings comfort and richness to your meal.
- Green Beans Almondine – Sautéed green beans with almonds offer a crunchy, fresh contrast.
- Caesar Salad – A crisp Caesar salad adds freshness and tanginess, balancing the richness of meatloaf.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your BBQ Meatloaf Recipe, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overmixing the meat: Mixing too much can make your meatloaf tough. Combine the ingredients just until mixed for a tender texture.
- Skipping the resting time: Not letting the meatloaf rest can result in juices running out when sliced. Always rest for about 15 minutes before cutting.
- Using lean ground beef: Lean beef can lead to a dry meatloaf. Opt for 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and moisture.
- Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning can leave your meatloaf bland. Make sure to follow the spice measurements closely and taste as you go.
- Not monitoring cooking time: Cooking too long may dry out your meatloaf. Keep an eye on the internal temperature; it should be around 160°F.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover BBQ meatloaf in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing BBQ Meatloaf Recipe
- Wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating BBQ Meatloaf Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use medium power and heat slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 1-2 minutes or until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist, for about 8-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding the BBQ Meatloaf Recipe that may help enhance your cooking experience.
Can I use turkey instead of beef in this BBQ Meatloaf Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for beef. Just ensure it has enough fat content (like 85/15) to keep it moist.
What can I serve with BBQ Meatloaf?
BBQ meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
How do I customize this BBQ Meatloaf Recipe?
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots into the mixture or change up spices based on your preference!
Is this BBQ Meatloaf Recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, replace plain dried breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Final Thoughts
This BBQ Meatloaf Recipe is not only easy but also packed with flavor thanks to its smoky spices and sweet glaze. You can customize toppings or sides based on what you love, making this dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Try it today and enjoy its heartwarming comfort!
BBQ Meatloaf Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Indulge in the ultimate BBQ Meatloaf Recipe, combining the classic comfort of meatloaf with a smoky BBQ twist! This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, featuring a flavorful blend of spices and a sweet, sticky glaze that will leave everyone asking for seconds. With its simple preparation and mouthwatering taste, this BBQ meatloaf is destined to become a family favorite. Enjoy it as a hearty meal or transform leftovers into delicious sandwiches for lunch. Whichever way you choose to savor it, this recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup plain dried breadcrumbs
- 2 pounds 80/20 ground beef
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 teaspoons Kosher salt
- 2/3 cup thick sweet BBQ sauce (separated)
- chili powder
- black pepper
- garlic powder
- onion powder
- ground cumin
- 1 small yellow onion, finely minced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a rimmed sheet pan with aluminum foil.
- In a mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Kosher salt, chili powder, black pepper, ground cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Add milk, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke; mix well.
- Incorporate ground beef and minced onion; combine gently and form into a loaf shape on the prepared pan.
- Pour half of the BBQ sauce over the meatloaf; bake for 35 minutes.
- Remove from oven and pour remaining sauce on top; bake an additional 25 minutes.
- Let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
