Juicy BBQ Meatloaf Recipe! if you’re craving a cozy, comforting dinner that comes together quickly but delivers bold, smoky flavors, then barbecue meatloaf is the dish for you. This recipe puts a savory spin on the traditional meatloaf by infusing it with smoky, barbecue-style ingredients like chili powder, cumin, and liquid smoke. The sticky sweet barbecue sauce on top adds a perfect finishing touch, balancing out the rich, tender meatloaf. It’s a family favorite, and my own family can never get enough of it!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Meatloaf
Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:
Bread crumbs
Salt
Chili powder
Black pepper
Cumin
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Add Wet Ingredients:
Add the following to the bowl with the dry ingredients:
Milk
1 egg
Worcestershire sauce
Liquid smoke
Mix well to create a flavorful base for the meatloaf.
Add Meat and Onion:
Add ground beef and finely chopped onion to the bowl.
Ensure the onion is finely chopped for even blending during cooking.
Combine the Ingredients:
Mix everything together thoroughly using your hands, ensuring all ingredients are evenly combined.
Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meat mixture to a lined baking sheet.
Shape it into a narrow, slightly tall loaf to ensure even baking.
Add Barbecue Sauce:
Spoon half of your favorite thick, sticky barbecue sauce over the top of the meatloaf.
Spread it out evenly.
Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in a preheated oven.
Bake until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (check with a meat thermometer).
Add Final Coat of Barbecue Sauce:
After the first baking time, spoon the remaining barbecue sauce over the top.
Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake until the sauce thickens and caramelizes.
Let the Meatloaf Rest:
Once done, let the meatloaf cool for about 15 minutes before slicing.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Serve with mashed potatoes, peas, or your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Barbecue Meatloaf
- To avoid dry meatloaf, ensure the breadcrumbs and milk mixture is fully incorporated into the meat before baking.
- Use a thick, sticky barbecue sauce to ensure it sticks to the meatloaf and doesn’t run off while baking.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce to the mix.
- For a leaner version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
Barbecue Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients
- Plain dried bread crumbs – Adds texture and moisture
- Kosher salt – Enhances the flavors
- Chili powder – Adds a warm, spicy kick
- Black pepper – Brings heat and depth
- Ground cumin – Provides an earthy, smoky flavor
- Garlic powder – Adds savory richness
- Onion powder – Boosts the savory profile
- Milk – Keeps the meatloaf moist
- Egg – Acts as a binder
- Worcestershire sauce – Deepens the savory taste
- Liquid smoke – Infuses a smoky aroma
- Ground beef – The base of the meatloaf
- Onion – Adds sweetness and depth
Steps/Directions
- In a large bowl, mix together the bread crumbs, salt, chili powder, pepper, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Stir in the milk, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke.
- Add the ground beef and finely chopped onion, and mix everything together thoroughly.
- Transfer the mixture to a lined baking sheet, shaping it into a narrow, slightly tall loaf.
- Spoon half of the barbecue sauce over the meatloaf and spread it evenly.
- Bake in a preheated oven until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, adding the remaining sauce halfway through.
- Let the meatloaf cool for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400 kcal |
| Fats | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Proteins | 30g |