Delicious Smoked Meatloaf Recipe for BBQ Lovers

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The smell of wood-smoked meatloaf is a classic BBQ treat. It’s a favorite among backyard cooks and grilling fans. I’ve mastered making a tasty smoked meatloaf that will wow your guests. Get ready to make your next BBQ unforgettable with this recipe!

Key Takeaways

Specific wood chips like hickory, cherry, or mesquite can be used to add depth of flavor.

The recommended ground beef blend for meatloaf is 80/20 to prevent drying out during smoking.

Smoking the meatloaf takes approximately 4 hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.

Smoked meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

The recipe provides 300 calories per serving, with 11g of carbs, 17g of protein, and 20g of fat.

The Perfect Smoked Meatloaf

Imagine a savory, juicy meatloaf with a smoky aroma. That’s what this smoked meatloaf recipe offers. It comes from Grandmommie and is sure to make everyone happy at dinner.

Serve Up Smiles for Dinner With This Smoked Meatloaf Recipe

Grandmommie’s smoked meatloaf is a family favorite. It mixes ground beef, pork, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, onion, and bell pepper. This creates a comforting meatloaf with a smoky twist.

Grandmommie’s Smoked Meatloaf Recipe Ingredients

  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 lean to fat ratio)
  • 1 pound ground pork
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

With these ingredients, you’re set to make a smoked meatloaf that everyone will love. Get ready to make your family smile with this tasty recipe.

Ingredients and Preparation

Get ready to make a delicious smoked meatloaf that everyone will love! This recipe combines ground beef and pork with tasty ingredients for a memorable meal.

Meatloaf Mixture

To start, mix 2 pounds of ground beef with 80/20 fat ratio for the best taste. Add 1/3 cup of fresh breadcrumbs, 3/4 cup of milk, 1 large egg, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Also, include 1/2 teaspoon of dry ground mustard and a mix of spices like salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

Glaze Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup of barbecue sauce
  • 1/4 cup of ketchup
  • 1/4 cup of brown sugar

The glaze is key to the meatloaf’s flavor. It’s made from barbecue sauce, ketchup, and brown sugar. This sweet and tangy mix will caramelize beautifully, adding a delicious crust to the meatloaf.

IngredientQuantity
Ground Beef2 lbs
Breadcrumbs1/3 cup
Milk3/4 cup
Egg1 large
Worcestershire Sauce1 tbsp
Dry Ground Mustard1/2 tsp
Barbecue Sauce1/4 cup
Ketchup1/4 cup
Brown Sugar1/4 cup

Smoking Instructions for Juicy Perfection

To get the perfect smoked meatloaf, follow these steps. First, heat your smoker to 300°F and use indirect heat. This keeps the meatloaf from burning.

Next, put your meatloaf on the grates when the smoker is hot. Smoke it for 1 hour and 45 minutes, or until it’s 155°F inside. This slow cooking makes the meatloaf juicy and full of flavor.

When it reaches 155°F, it’s time for the glaze. Brush it all over the meatloaf. Then, smoke it for another 10-15 minutes. This step makes the glaze caramelized and sticky.

After these steps, you’ll have a delicious smoked meatloaf. It will have a beautiful smoke ring and taste amazing. Your guests will love it!

For a juicy smoked meatloaf, be patient and pay attention to detail. Follow these smoking meatloaf steps well. You’ll get a smoked meatloaf that will impress everyone.

Ways to Glaze Your Smoked Meatloaf

Take your smoked meatloaf to the next level with the right glaze. While BBQ sauce is tasty, why not try something new? Here are some tempting glaze options to finish your meatloaf masterpiece.

Pepper Jelly Glaze

For a sweet and spicy twist, try a pepper jelly glaze. It pairs the smoky meatloaf with a vibrant, spicy pepper jelly. Mix pepper jelly, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Brush it on the meatloaf for the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Homemade Meatloaf Sauce

For a traditional taste, make your own meatloaf sauce. It’s a mix of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and more. This sauce is tangy-sweet and perfect with the savory meatloaf.

Choose your glaze and apply it in the last cooking stages. This lets the flavors caramelize and create a tasty crust. Try different glazes to find your family’s favorite!

“The perfect glaze can transform a good smoked meatloaf into an exceptional one.”

Mouthwatering Variations

The classic smoked meatloaf recipe is a hit. But why stop there? Try these tasty variations to elevate your barbecue. Whether you’re looking for a keto twist or just want to try something new, these options will excite your taste buds.

Make it Keto-Friendly

For a low-carb version, swap breadcrumbs with pork panko. This keto-friendly choice cuts carbs and adds crunch. Top it with sugar-free barbecue sauce for a keto-friendly feast that’s tasty and diet-friendly.

IngredientStandard Smoked MeatloafKeto Smoked Meatloaf
Breadcrumbs1 cupPork panko, 1 cup
BBQ SauceStandard barbecue sauceSugar-free barbecue sauce
Net Carbs per Serving20g10g

These simple swaps let you enjoy the meatloaf’s smoky flavors while staying keto. Serve it with low-carb sides for a meal that’s both tasty and healthy.

Bacon-Wrapped Smoked Meatloaf

Elevate your smoked meatloaf game by wrapping it in a delicious bacon blanket. This bacon-wrapped smoked meatloaf takes the classic comfort food to new heights. It infuses it with irresistible smoky flavors and a crispy bacon exterior.

To create this masterpiece, start by making a traditional meatloaf mixture. The recipe calls for a blend of 1-1/2 pounds of lean ground beef and 1/2 pound of ground pork sausage. Add flavorful ingredients like onions, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and breadcrumbs. Once the meatloaf is formed, it’s time to add the bacon.

Prepare a bacon weave by arranging thin-cut bacon slices in a criss-cross pattern on a baking sheet. Carefully transfer the meatloaf onto the bacon weave, then wrap the bacon around the loaf. This not only adds a delectable smoky-sweet flavor but also helps lock in the juices during the smoking process.

Preheat your smoker to a temperature range of 225-250°F. Use a neutral-flavored wood, such as oak or maple, for the best results. Place the smoked bacon-wrapped meatloaf on the smoker grate and let it cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This should take around 2 hours.

For an extra layer of flavor, brush the bacon with a BBQ sauce glaze during the last 10 minutes of smoking. Once the meatloaf is cooked through, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy the perfect balance of savory, smoky, and crispy in every bite!

bacon-wrapped smoked meatloaf

Stuffed with Cheese

For a treat that cheese lovers will adore, try stuffing your smoked meatloaf with mozzarella and cheddar. This adds a burst of flavor to your cheese-stuffed smoked meatloaf. It makes the dish even more tempting.

To make the smoked meatloaf stuffed with cheese, place mozzarella and cheddar slices in the meatloaf mix. Then, roll and smoke it. As it cooks, the cheese melts into a creamy filling. It’s full of savory goodness in every bite.

Recommended Ground Beef Lean Percentage85% recommended, but 90% is also acceptable
Smoking Temperature for Optimal ResultsMaintain a steady temperature between 225°F to 250°F
Internal Temperature for Meatloaf DonenessMeatloaf should reach an internal temperature of 160°F
Meatloaf Smoking TimeSmoke the meatloaf for approximately 3 to 3 ½ hours, then an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour after applying the sauce
Shelf Life of LeftoversLeftover meatloaf can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days and reheated later

The secret to a great cheese-stuffed smoked meatloaf is in the layering and smoking. Make sure the cheese is spread out evenly. Keep the smoking temperature steady for juicy, flavorful meatloaf. The mix of smoky meat and melted cheese is unbeatable.

Enjoy the ultimate comfort food with this smoked meatloaf stuffed with cheese recipe. Serve it with your favorite sides. Get ready to love every cheesy, smoky bite!

smoked meatloaf recipe Tips and Tricks

Making the perfect smoked meatloaf is more than just a recipe. It’s about mastering the small details that make it special. As you make your smoked meatloaf, remember these tips to get a delicious result.

Don’t overwork the meatloaf mix. Overmixing makes it tough and dense. Mix the ingredients gently until they just come together.

Choose a coarser ground meat for better texture and moisture. Lean ground beef, around 90-10, is best for a cleaner smoking experience.

  • Smoke at 225°F to 250°F to avoid burning or drying out.
  • Use a meat probe or wireless thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 165°F for full cooking.
  • Try different wood chips like pecan, cherry, or hickory for unique flavors.

Smoking meatloaf takes time. A one-and-a-half-pound loaf needs about an hour and fifteen minutes to cook right. Rushing can spoil the taste.

“The secret to a truly remarkable smoked meatloaf lies in the details. By paying attention to these tips and tricks, you’ll unlock a world of flavor and juiciness that will leave your guests craving more.”

Next time you smoke, remember these tips. With careful attention, you’ll make a memorable dish.

smoked meatloaf recipe tips

Conclusion

The smoked meatloaf recipe in this article is a hit for BBQ fans. It’s juicy, smoky, and can be made in many ways. You can stick to the classic or try bacon-wrapped or cheese-stuffed versions.

Each slice of this meatloaf is packed with 30 grams of protein and 20 grams of fat. It also has iron and zinc, making it a healthy choice. With 400-500 calories per slice, it’s a filling meal. You can also use ground turkey, lamb, chicken, or duck for different tastes.

Now you can make a delicious smoked meatloaf for your next BBQ. Follow the steps and tips in this article. Serve it with sides like smoky baked beans, coleslaw, or potato salad for a great meal. Enjoy the journey of flavors with smoked meatloaf.

FAQ

What ingredients are needed to make Grandmommie’s smoked meatloaf?

To make Grandmommie’s smoked meatloaf, you’ll need ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, onion, bell pepper, salt, and pepper.

How do I prepare the meatloaf mixture and the glaze?

For the meatloaf mixture, combine ground beef and pork with breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, and chopped veggies. The glaze is made from brown sugar and ketchup. This mix creates a sweet and tangy topping for the meatloaf.

What is the process for smoking the meatloaf to achieve juicy perfection?

First, cook the meatloaf at 225 degrees for an hour. Then, raise the temperature to 375 degrees and apply the glaze. Smoke until it hits 155 degrees. This method makes the meatloaf tender and flavorful with a nice smoke ring.

Can I customize the glaze for my smoked meatloaf?

Yes, you can experiment with different glazes. Try classic BBQ sauce, pepper jelly glaze, or homemade meatloaf sauce. This way, you can tailor the meatloaf to your liking.

How can I make the smoked meatloaf keto-friendly?

For a keto version, swap breadcrumbs for pork panko and use sugar-free BBQ sauce. These changes cut down carbs without losing flavor.

Can I wrap the smoked meatloaf in bacon?

Absolutely, you can make a bacon-wrapped smoked meatloaf. Create a bacon weave and wrap it around the meatloaf before smoking. The bacon adds flavor and texture, making it a decadent dish.

Can I stuff the smoked meatloaf with cheese?

Yes, you can add cheddar and mozzarella cheese inside the meatloaf. Layer the cheese in the middle, then roll and smoke it. The melted cheese inside adds flavor and moisture.

What tips and tricks can I use to make the perfect smoked meatloaf?

To perfect your smoked meatloaf, avoid overmixing the mixture. Use a coarse grind for the meat. Smoke at a low temperature to keep it juicy. Use a meat probe or wireless thermometer to check the internal temperature.

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