Smoked Meatloaf Recipe: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish

Discover how to elevate your meatloaf game with this smoky, juicy, and irresistible smoked meatloaf recipe. Perfect for BBQ lovers and home cooks alike!

Why Smoke a Meatloaf?

Smoking a meatloaf adds a rich, smoky flavor that transforms this classic comfort food into something extraordinary. The slow cooking process infuses the meat with a deep, woodsy aroma, while keeping it incredibly moist and tender. Whether you’re a BBQ enthusiast or just looking to try something new, smoked meatloaf is a must-try dish.

Ingredients for Smoked Meatloaf

Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect smoked meatloaf:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Glaze:

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika

Choosing the Right Meat Blend

For the best texture and flavor, use a combination of ground beef and pork. The fat content in the pork keeps the meatloaf moist, while the beef adds a robust flavor. You can also experiment with ground veal for a richer taste.

How to Prepare the Meatloaf for Smoking

1. Soak the Breadcrumbs: In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let them soak for 5 minutes.
2. Mix the Ingredients: Add the ground beef, ground pork, eggs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
3. Shape the Meatloaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on a wire rack or a sheet of aluminum foil. This will make it easier to transfer to the smoker.

Preparing the Smoker

Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Use wood chips like hickory, apple, or cherry for a balanced smoky flavor. Soak the wood chips in water for 30 minutes before adding them to the smoker.

Smoking the Meatloaf: Time and Temperature

1. Smoke the Meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in the smoker and let it cook for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
2. Apply the Glaze: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the meatloaf with the glaze every 10 minutes to build a flavorful, caramelized crust.

How to Know When the Meatloaf is Done

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Once it reaches 160°F (71°C), your smoked meatloaf is ready to rest. Let it sit for 10 minutes before slicing.

Tips for the Perfect Smoked Meatloaf

• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make the meatloaf dense. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Use a Wire Rack: Placing the meatloaf on a wire rack allows the smoke to circulate evenly around it.
• Rest Before Slicing: Letting the meatloaf rest ensures the juices redistribute, keeping it moist.

Best Wood Chips for Smoking Meatloaf

Hickory and oak are great for a strong smoky flavor, while apple and cherry wood add a sweeter, milder touch. Experiment to find your favorite!

Glazing Options for Smoked Meatloaf

The glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish. You can also try BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or a spicy chipotle glaze for a different twist.

Serving Suggestions for Smoked Meatloaf

Pair your smoked meatloaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

FAQs About Smoked Meatloaf

Related Recipes to Try

If you enjoyed this smoked meatloaf, you might also like:

• Microgreens Recipes: Simple, Fresh, And Packed With Flavor
• 9 Best Sturgeon Recipes
• Quick and Flavorful Dory Fish

Smoked Meatloaf Recipe

Olivia Reid

Learn how to make the best smoked meatloaf with this easy recipe. Perfectly smoky, juicy, and flavorful—ideal for BBQ lovers and family dinners!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs 50 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 8 people

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 2 lbs ground beef 80/20 blend
• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 small onion finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Glaze:

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika

Instructions

 

• Preheat the smoker to 225°F (107°C) and add soaked wood chips.
• In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let soak for 5 minutes.
• Add ground beef, ground pork, eggs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
• Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on a wire rack.
• Smoke the meatloaf for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
• During the last 30 minutes, brush the meatloaf with the glaze every 10 minutes.
• Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Tips for Success

• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your meatloaf is perfectly cooked, always use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
• Let It Rest: Allow the meatloaf to rest for at least 10 minutes after smoking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meatloaf moist.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the meat can make the loaf dense. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

Variations

• Spicy Smoked Meatloaf: Add 1-2 tsp of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
• Cheesy Smoked Meatloaf: Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the meatloaf mixture before shaping.
• BBQ Glaze: Replace the ketchup glaze with your favorite BBQ sauce for a tangy, smoky flavor.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Keyword BBQ meatloaf, smoked meatloaf, smoker recipes