What happens when you combine the smoky, tangy flavors of barbecue sauce with the hearty comfort of traditional meatloaf? You get this mouthwatering BBQ meatloaf recipe—a game-changer for your dinner table. Perfectly tender and bursting with smoky-sweet flavors, this recipe will have your family asking for seconds. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this meatloaf recipe with BBQ sauce will hit all the right notes.
BBQ Meatloaf Recipe
Cuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy6
servings15
minutes1
hour350
kcalThis BBQ meatloaf recipe combines classic comfort with smoky BBQ flavors, creating a tender, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and loved by all.
Ingredients
- For the Meatloaf
1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
1/2 lb ground pork
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup milk
1 egg, beaten
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- For the BBQ Glaze
1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork it!
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and shape it into a loaf.
- Bake uncovered for 40 minutes.
- While the meatloaf is baking, mix BBQ sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl.
- After 40 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and generously brush the glaze on top.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- Use a mix of beef and pork for a tender texture, but you can use just beef if preferred.
- Line your baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Letting the meatloaf rest is key to locking in the juices.
Tips for tasty BBQ Meatloaf
- Customize the Flavor: Add a teaspoon of mustard or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a tangy kick.
- Make It Ahead: Prepare the meatloaf mixture and glaze up to a day in advance; refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked.
- Double the Glaze: If you love extra sauce, make a double batch of the glaze for serving.
Recipe Variants
- Spicy BBQ Meatloaf: Add diced jalapeños and use a spicy BBQ sauce for a kick.
- Turkey Meatloaf: Replace beef and pork with ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Cheesy BBQ Meatloaf: Fold in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the meatloaf mixture.
FAQ
Yes! Wrap the cooked and cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Absolutely! Gluten-free breadcrumbs work perfectly in this recipe.
Use your favorite brand or homemade BBQ sauce—smoky and sweet flavors work best.
Looking for another comfort food classic? Check out our New Orleans Shrimp and Grits Recipe for a hearty Southern meal!
This BBQ meatloaf recipe is the ultimate comfort food with a smoky twist. Its tender texture and tangy glaze will transform any meal into a celebration of flavor. Pair it with your favorite sides and watch it become a family favorite.
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