Best Smoked Meatloaf Recipe

Smoked meatloaf is a culinary masterpiece that takes the classic comfort food to a whole new level.

Combining the rich flavors of ground meat, aromatic spices, and the mesmerizing smokiness of a grill or smoker, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

We’ll walk you through the steps to create the best smoked meatloaf you’ve ever tasted.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend is ideal)
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Instructions

Prepare the Smoker

Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C) using your choice of wood chips or chunks. Mesquite, hickory, or apple wood are excellent options for a smoky flavor.

Mix the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, chopped onion, bell peppers, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper. Use your hands to gently mix until all ingredients are well combined, but avoid overmixing to prevent a dense texture.

Shape the Meatloaf

Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape, approximately 9 inches long, 5 inches wide, and 3 inches high. Place it on a wire rack to allow for proper smoke circulation.

Smoke the Meatloaf

Place the wire rack with the meatloaf directly on the smoker grates. Close the smoker and let the meatloaf smoke for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Prepare the Glaze

While the meatloaf is smoking, mix together the glaze ingredients in a small saucepan. Heat over low heat until the sugar has dissolved and the glaze has thickened slightly.

Glaze the Meatloaf

During the last 30 minutes of smoking, brush the glaze evenly over the meatloaf every 10 minutes to create a sweet and savory crust.

Rest and Serve

Once the smoked meatloaf reaches the desired temperature and has a beautiful glaze, carefully remove it from the smoker. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Slice and Enjoy

Slice the smoked meatloaf into thick, juicy portions, and serve it alongside your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or grilled vegetables.

The best smoked meatloaf is a delectable blend of smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors that will leave your taste buds craving more. With the right ingredients and a little patience, you can create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for family gatherings, cookouts, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll discover why smoked meatloaf has become a beloved classic with a smoky twist.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 380 kcal

• Protein: 27g

• Carbohydrates: 16g

• Dietary Fiber: 1g

• Sugars: 6g

• Fat: 24g

• Saturated Fat: 9g

• Cholesterol: 135mg

• Sodium: 780mg

• Potassium: 450mg

10 Simple Best Smoked Meatloaf Recipes

Discover the ultimate indulgence with the best smoked meatloaf recipe. Infused with rich smoky flavors, this dish combines ground meat, spices, and barbecue magic for a mouthwatering twist on a classic favorite. Get ready for a tantalizing culinary adventure!

1. Bacon-Wrapped Smoked Meatloaf

Wrap your meatloaf in strips of bacon before smoking for an extra layer of smoky flavor and a crispy texture. The bacon also infuses the meatloaf with its rich, savory essence.

2. Cheesy Stuffed Smoked Meatloaf

Elevate your meatloaf by adding a cheesy surprise inside. Create a pocket in the meat mixture and stuff it with your favorite shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella. As it smokes, the cheese melts to perfection.

3. Barbecue Glazed Smoked Meatloaf

For a sweet and tangy twist, use barbecue sauce instead of ketchup in your glaze. The combination of smokiness and barbecue flavors will have your taste buds dancing.

4. Smoked Meatloaf Sliders

Shape your meatloaf mixture into small patties and smoke them to create delicious meatloaf sliders. Serve on mini buns with your favorite toppings for an irresistible appetizer or snack.

5. Mushroom and Onion Smoked Meatloaf

Add sautéed mushrooms and onions to the meat mixture for a burst of umami goodness. These ingredients complement the smoky flavor beautifully.

6. Turkey and Oat Smoked Meatloaf

For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey for beef and incorporate oats into the mixture for added texture and nutrition. It’s a healthier take on a classic.

7. Italian-Inspired Smoked Meatloaf

Infuse your meatloaf with Italian flavors by adding herbs like basil, oregano, and grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture. Serve with marinara sauce for a delightful twist.

8. Smoked Meatloaf Meatballs

Transform the meatloaf mixture into bite-sized meatballs and smoke them for a unique appetizer or pasta topper. These smoky meatballs are bursting with flavor.

9. Smoked Meatloaf Tacos

Slice smoked meatloaf into thin strips and serve in soft tortillas with salsa, guacamole, and your favorite taco toppings. It’s a fusion of comfort food and Tex-Mex goodness.

10. Spicy Cajun Smoked Meatloaf

Give your meatloaf some Cajun flair by adding a blend of spicy seasonings like cayenne pepper, paprika, and Cajun seasoning to the mixture. It’s a smoky and spicy delight.

If you’re a fan of hearty, flavorful dishes, then you’ll love this list of the 10 best simple smoked meatloaf recipes. Smoked meatloaf takes this classic comfort food to a whole new level, infusing it with a smoky, savory flavor that’s hard to resist. From traditional recipes to creative twists, these recipes are easy to follow and guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds.