This Smoked Meatloaf with Sweet BBQ Glaze is a classic comfort dish with a smoky twist. The BBQ glaze gives the meatloaf a perfectly sticky and caramelized exterior, while the inside stays juicy and full of flavor. Whether served alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad, this dish will elevate any meal.
The smokiness infuses the meatloaf with deep, rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the glaze. Each bite is a balance of savory, smoky, and tangy notes that come together for the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for family dinners, BBQ gatherings, or as a hearty weeknight meal, this smoked meatloaf is sure to satisfy.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef
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1/2 lb ground pork
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1 cup breadcrumbs
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1/2 cup milk
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1/4 cup finely chopped onion
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1 egg
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for glazing)
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1 tablespoon brown sugar
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Directions:
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Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
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In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, egg, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well-combined.
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Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it on a smoker-safe pan or directly on the grill grate.
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Smoke the meatloaf for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
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While the meatloaf is smoking, mix the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl.
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In the final 30 minutes of cooking, baste the meatloaf with the BBQ glaze every 10 minutes, allowing it to caramelize and form a sticky, flavorful coating.
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Remove the meatloaf from the smoker once it reaches the desired internal temperature and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 2.5 hours | Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 6
Why Choose Smoked Meatloaf?
Smoked meatloaf takes the already savory, hearty, and delicious dish to the next level. By cooking it in a smoker, the meatloaf absorbs subtle smoky flavors from the wood chips, which enhances the natural taste of the meat. This method is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor cooking or want to try something new in the kitchen. Smoked meatloaf is also a great choice for gatherings and BBQ parties. Its bold flavor profile is sure to impress guests, making it a standout dish on any occasion.
How Smoking Impacts the Flavor
Smoking meatloaf adds an incredible depth of flavor. As the meatloaf cooks low and slow, the wood chips create a fragrant, smoky aroma that infuses the meat. The type of wood used—such as hickory, oak, or applewood—adds its own distinctive flavor to the meat, allowing for customization in taste. The smoking process also helps lock in the juices, ensuring the meatloaf remains tender and moist. The sweet BBQ glaze then creates a caramelized, slightly sticky coating that contrasts beautifully with the smoky interior.
The Role of the BBQ Glaze
The sweet BBQ glaze is an essential component of this recipe. Not only does it add sweetness, but it also provides an additional layer of flavor that complements the smoky meatloaf. The glaze’s tangy notes, usually from vinegar or mustard, balance the richness of the meat, making each bite satisfying. During the final stages of smoking, basting the meatloaf with the glaze allows it to form a shiny, caramelized crust that enhances both the visual appeal and taste of the dish.
Perfect Pairings for Smoked Meatloaf
Smoked meatloaf with sweet BBQ glaze is versatile and pairs well with various sides, making it ideal for any meal setting. It can be served with classic mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, offering a comforting combination of flavors. For a more casual meal, it also pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, allowing the richness of the meatloaf to contrast with the crispness of the greens. For a more adventurous twist, serve it with a side of cornbread or baked beans, which bring in a touch of southern flavor.
Why Smoked Meatloaf Is Great for Gatherings
Smoked meatloaf is not only a fantastic family dinner option but also an excellent choice for gatherings and BBQ parties. When cooking for a crowd, meatloaf is a great option because it can be easily scaled up. Simply increase the amount of ingredients and use a larger smoker or multiple smokers to prepare a larger batch. The smoky BBQ glaze is a crowd-pleaser, adding an extra layer of indulgence that your guests will love. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, a BBQ, or a family reunion, smoked meatloaf is bound to be a hit.
Tips for Smoking Meatloaf
Smoking meatloaf requires a bit of patience, but the results are well worth it. Here are a few tips to ensure your meatloaf comes out perfectly smoked and glazed:
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Temperature Control: Make sure to keep the smoker temperature at a consistent 225°F (107°C). Low and slow is the key to achieving the perfect smoky flavor and tender texture.
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Wood Choice: The type of wood you use for smoking can influence the final taste of your meatloaf. Hickory offers a robust flavor, while applewood provides a sweeter, milder smoke. Experiment to find the flavor profile you prefer.
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Don’t Overmix: When preparing the meat mixture, be careful not to overmix it. Overworking the meat can make the meatloaf tough. Mix just enough to combine the ingredients.
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Basting: The BBQ glaze is crucial in creating that signature sticky, caramelized finish. Be sure to baste the meatloaf generously during the last 30 minutes of smoking, allowing the glaze to form a flavorful crust.
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Resting Time: Once the meatloaf is done, allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.
Making Smoked Meatloaf Ahead of Time
One of the great things about smoked meatloaf is that it can be made ahead of time. If you’re planning a big meal or gathering, you can prepare the meatloaf the day before and store it in the fridge. On the day of the event, simply reheat the meatloaf in the smoker to warm it up and give it a quick touch-up with the BBQ glaze. This makes the preparation process easier and less stressful while ensuring your guests get to enjoy a delicious, hot meal.
Variations of Smoked Meatloaf
While the traditional smoked meatloaf with BBQ glaze is delicious, you can customize the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions. For a leaner option, try substituting the beef and pork with turkey or chicken. You can also add different vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to the meat mixture for added flavor and texture. If you’re looking to spice things up, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes to the meatloaf or glaze. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor the dish to your specific tastes.
The Appeal of Homemade BBQ Glaze
Making your own BBQ glaze from scratch adds another layer of flavor to the dish. While store-bought glazes are convenient, homemade versions often have a fresher, more vibrant taste. The homemade glaze typically combines ingredients like brown sugar, vinegar, mustard, and spices, allowing you to adjust the sweetness and tanginess to your liking. Making your glaze also ensures that there are no artificial preservatives or unnecessary additives, giving you full control over the ingredients.
The Health Aspect of Smoked Meatloaf
While smoked meatloaf is undeniably a comfort food, it can still be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. The addition of leaner meats, like turkey, can reduce the fat content while still providing plenty of protein. Additionally, serving the meatloaf with vegetables or a salad helps to balance out the richness of the meat. For those looking to lower their calorie intake, consider serving the meatloaf without the BBQ glaze or using a sugar-free version of the glaze.
Conclusion
Smoked meatloaf with sweet BBQ glaze is a delicious and flavorful twist on a classic comfort food. The smoky aroma and the sweet, tangy glaze work together to create a perfect balance of savory flavors. This dish is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for both casual meals and special occasions. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing for a BBQ gathering, smoked meatloaf is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its ease of preparation, bold flavors, and impressive presentation, this recipe is a must-try for any grilling enthusiast. So fire up the smoker, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a delicious smoked meatloaf experience like no other.