This BBQ Meatloaf is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. The smoky BBQ glaze pairs wonderfully with the tender beef, making each bite a flavorful experience.
The best part? It’s simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad, this meatloaf is a great way to elevate your dinner table. With its easy prep and delicious flavor, this BBQ Meatloaf is destined to become a regular in your recipe rotation.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 1/2 lbs ground beef
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup milk
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1/2 cup finely chopped onion
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1 egg
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp black pepper
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1 cup BBQ sauce, divided
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1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
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Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a lightly greased baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Pour half of the BBQ sauce over the meatloaf, spreading it evenly across the top.
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Bake for 45 minutes, then remove from the oven and brush with the remaining BBQ sauce.
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Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
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If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
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Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The History of Meatloaf
Meatloaf has long been a staple of American comfort food, with roots stretching back to the 19th century. Originally, it was a way for families to stretch their meat supply, creating a hearty dish from inexpensive ground meat. Over time, the recipe evolved, and meatloaf became a symbol of home-cooked warmth and satisfaction. Today, it’s loved for its versatility and ease of preparation, with countless variations ranging from classic meatloaf to modern renditions like the BBQ version we’re focusing on here.
Why BBQ Meatloaf is a Great Meal Option
BBQ meatloaf offers the perfect balance between convenience and flavor. Ground beef, pork, or even turkey form the foundation of the dish, while the BBQ glaze introduces a rich layer of smokiness and sweetness. It’s a family-friendly dish that can be made ahead of time, and its ingredients are often pantry staples, making it both affordable and accessible. Whether you’re serving it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad, BBQ meatloaf is versatile enough to pair with just about anything.
The Magic of the BBQ Glaze
One of the key elements that set BBQ meatloaf apart from traditional meatloaf is the BBQ glaze. The glaze is what brings that extra punch of flavor, enveloping the meatloaf in a sticky, sweet, and slightly tangy coating that caramelizes as it bakes. The combination of ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and various spices gives the glaze a complexity that enhances the meaty filling. While store-bought BBQ sauce is convenient, making your own homemade BBQ glaze takes the dish to the next level, offering a more personalized and authentic flavor.
Customizing Your BBQ Meatloaf
BBQ meatloaf is incredibly customizable, which is one of the reasons it remains so popular. While the traditional version calls for ground beef, you can easily switch to ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Adding vegetables to the mix, such as finely chopped carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers, can increase the nutritional value while adding additional flavors. For a more savory option, you can mix in grated cheese or herbs like parsley, thyme, or oregano.
If you prefer your BBQ meatloaf to have an extra bit of kick, consider adding finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. For a gluten-free version, replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free oats or a gluten-free alternative. The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing BBQ meatloaf, making it an adaptable dish to suit various preferences and dietary needs.
BBQ Meatloaf as a Meal Prep Option
One of the best features of BBQ meatloaf is its ability to be made ahead of time and stored for later use. This makes it an excellent meal prep option for busy families or individuals. After preparing the meatloaf, simply slice it into individual portions, and store them in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.
The beauty of BBQ meatloaf for meal prep lies in its versatility. It can be paired with a variety of sides and incorporated into other dishes. For instance, leftover meatloaf can be used in sandwiches, tacos, or even crumbled into pasta sauces, giving it an entirely new life in future meals.
BBQ Meatloaf for Any Occasion
BBQ meatloaf is more than just a family dinner—it’s a dish that works for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, potluck, or a cozy dinner at home, BBQ meatloaf is sure to be a hit. The recipe is straightforward enough for a casual meal, yet it can easily be dressed up for a more formal gathering. Add a side of crispy roasted potatoes or a fresh garden salad, and you’ve got a well-rounded meal that will leave everyone coming back for seconds.
For special occasions, BBQ meatloaf can be adapted to suit the theme of the gathering. Serve it with a smoky corn salad or baked beans for a true BBQ experience, or pair it with roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes for a more comforting dinner. This versatility makes BBQ meatloaf a go-to choice for gatherings of any size.
Healthier Versions of BBQ Meatloaf
While BBQ meatloaf is undeniably delicious, it’s also important to be mindful of health-conscious versions of the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, consider swapping out regular ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken. You can also use low-fat breadcrumbs or oats, which provide fiber without the extra fat. For those who are watching their sugar intake, opt for a sugar-free or reduced-sugar BBQ sauce to cut down on unnecessary calories.
Incorporating vegetables like finely shredded zucchini or carrots can help lower the fat content while increasing the dish’s overall nutrition. These veggies not only add flavor but also contribute moisture, making the meatloaf extra tender. With a few simple modifications, BBQ meatloaf can be enjoyed as a lighter, healthier version without sacrificing taste.
BBQ Meatloaf as a Family Favorite
BBQ meatloaf has all the qualities that make it a family favorite: it’s easy to make, customizable, and everyone loves it. Children will be especially drawn to the sweet, tangy BBQ glaze, while adults will appreciate the hearty, comforting nature of the dish. It’s a wonderful way to get everyone around the table for a delicious home-cooked meal that doesn’t require hours of preparation.
For busy parents, BBQ meatloaf offers the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. It’s a one-pan meal, meaning you don’t have to worry about complicated side dishes. Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Conclusion: Why BBQ Meatloaf Should Be a Regular in Your Meal Rotation
In conclusion, BBQ meatloaf is a fantastic dish that combines the best of both worlds: comfort and flavor. Its versatility allows for customization to suit different tastes, and it’s perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. With its smoky, sweet BBQ glaze and tender meat, BBQ meatloaf offers a fun and delicious twist on a classic favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a family dinner, or just a quick weeknight meal, BBQ meatloaf is guaranteed to satisfy and leave everyone asking for seconds.
By incorporating a variety of flavors, textures, and optional healthy substitutions, BBQ meatloaf can be adapted to meet dietary needs and preferences without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re making it for the first time or have been perfecting your own version for years, BBQ meatloaf is sure to remain a staple in your recipe collection for years to come.