Smoked Meatloaf

Are you ready to elevate your meatloaf game? This smoked meatloaf recipe will tantalize your taste buds with its rich flavors and smoky aroma. Whether you’re a meatloaf enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this dish is sure to impress. Perfectly seasoned and infused with smoky goodness, it’s a delightful twist on a classic comfort food that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (for glaze)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes approximately 6 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and the cooking time is around 1 hour.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 350 calories, 25g of protein, 20g of fat, and 15g of carbohydrates. This is based on a standard serving size for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
3. Add eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
5. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on a smoker-safe pan.
6. Insert a meat thermometer into the center of the loaf.
7. Smoke the meatloaf for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
8. Brush the barbecue sauce over the top during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
9. Once cooked, remove from the smoker and let it rest for 10 minutes.
10. Slice and serve with your favorite sides.

Alternative Ingredients

If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a lighter option. You can also substitute breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or oats for a gluten-free variation.

Serving and Pairings

This smoked meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. For a complete meal, serve with your favorite barbecue sauce on the side.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover smoked meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply slice and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Cooking Mistakes

• Using lean meat can result in a dry loaf; choose a blend with some fat.
• Not mixing ingredients thoroughly can lead to uneven texture.
• Skipping the resting time can cause the meatloaf to crumble when sliced.
• Overcooking can dry out the meatloaf; use a meat thermometer.
• Not using enough seasoning can make it bland; taste as you go.

Helpful Tips

• Experiment with different spices to customize the flavor.
• Try adding shredded cheese for extra richness.
• Use a combination of meats for a unique flavor.
• Consider adding chopped herbs for freshness.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the meat used.

How do I know when the meatloaf is done?

The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) when fully cooked. A meat thermometer is the best way to check.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before smoking.

What can I serve with smoked meatloaf?

It pairs well with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with a tangy barbecue sauce.

How should I store leftovers?

Wrap leftovers tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Smoked meatloaf is a delicious twist on a classic dish, bringing smoky flavors and comfort to your table. This recipe is simple enough for weeknight dinners but impressive enough for gatherings. With its rich taste and satisfying texture, it will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy the smoky goodness!

Smoked Meatloaf

This smoked meatloaf is a delicious twist on a classic dish, bringing smoky flavors and comfort to your table.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: smoked meatloaf, comfort food, barbecue, dinner

Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour hour

Total Time: 1 hour hour 20 minutes minutes

Servings: 6 servings

Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup onion finely chopped
• 1/2 cup bell pepper finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce for glaze

Instructions

• Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
• In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
• Add eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
• Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on a smoker-safe pan.
• Insert a meat thermometer into the center of the loaf.
• Smoke the meatloaf for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
• Brush the barbecue sauce over the top during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
• Once cooked, remove from the smoker and let it rest for 10 minutes.
• Slice and serve with your favorite sides.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 20g | Fiber: 1g