Smoked Meatloaf Recipe: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish in 2024

Introduction

Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations. While traditional meatloaf is delicious in its own right, smoking it adds a whole new level of flavor and texture. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of making a mouth-watering smoked meatloaf recipe that will impress your family and friends.

How to Make Smoked Meatloaf Recipe

Ingredients and Instructions

Smoked Meatloaf Recipe

Course: MainCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

2

minutes

Calories

350

kcal

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 or 85/15)

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1/2 cup ketchup

• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce

• 2 large eggs

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon dried parsley

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

• 1/4 cup yellow mustard

Directions

• Preheat your smoker: Set your smoker to 225°F (107°C) and add your favorite wood chips, such as hickory or apple wood.
• Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, eggs, onion, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
• Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to a baking sheet or disposable aluminum pan and shape it into a loaf, approximately 9 inches long and 4 inches wide.
• Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1/4 cup ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and yellow mustard. Brush the glaze evenly over the top and sides of the meatloaf.
• Smoke the meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in the smoker and cook for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Brush with additional glaze every 30 minutes during cooking.
• Rest and serve: Remove the meatloaf from the smoker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for the Perfect Smoked Meatloaf Recipe

• Use a meat thermometer: To ensure your meatloaf is cooked to a safe temperature, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Insert the thermometer into the center of the meatloaf; it should read 165°F (74°C) when done.
• Don’t overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is evenly distributed. Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense meatloaf.
• Experiment with wood chips: Try different types of wood chips to find your preferred flavor. Hickory and apple wood are popular choices, but you can also try mesquite, cherry, or maple.
• Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and moist meatloaf.

Serving Suggestions

Smoked meatloaf pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Some of our favorites include:

• Mashed potatoes
• Roasted vegetables
• Macaroni and cheese
• Coleslaw
• Baked beans

You can also use leftover smoked meatloaf to make delicious sandwiches or crumble it into chili or pasta sauce for added flavor.

Variations on Smoked Meatloaf Recipe

While our smoked meatloaf recipe is delicious as-is, there are many ways to customize it to suit your tastes. Here are a few variations to try:

1. Bacon-Wrapped Smoked Meatloaf: Before smoking, wrap the meatloaf in strips of bacon. The bacon will add extra flavor and help keep the meatloaf moist during cooking.
2. Stuffed Smoked Meatloaf: Create a pocket in the center of the meatloaf and fill it with your favorite ingredients, such as cheese, sautéed mushrooms, or caramelized onions. Seal the pocket and smoke as directed.
3. BBQ Smoked Meatloaf: Instead of the ketchup-based glaze, brush the meatloaf with your favorite BBQ sauce during cooking. This will give the meatloaf a tangy, smoky flavor that’s perfect for summer cookouts.

Storing and Reheating Smoked Meatloaf Recipe

If you have leftover smoked meatloaf, it’s important to store and reheat it properly to maintain its quality and safety. Here’s how:

1. Storing: Allow the meatloaf to cool to room temperature, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
2. Reheating in the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Unwrap the meatloaf and place it in a baking dish. Add a few tablespoons of water or beef broth to the dish to help keep the meatloaf moist. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
3. Reheating in the microwave: Place a slice of meatloaf on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can dry out the meatloaf.

Smoked Meatloaf Recipe FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, you can use ground turkey, beef, or a combination of meats in this recipe. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the type of meat used.
2. How do I prevent my meatloaf from falling apart? To help your meatloaf hold together, make sure to use enough binding ingredients, such as eggs and breadcrumbs. Also, let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking before slicing.
3. Can I make smoked meatloaf without a smoker? If you don’t have a smoker, you can still achieve a smoky flavor by using liquid smoke or smoked paprika in the meatloaf mixture. Bake the meatloaf in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. What can I do if my meatloaf is too dry? If your meatloaf turns out dry, try adding a sauce or gravy when serving. You can also try using a higher fat content ground beef (80/20) or adding more moisture-rich ingredients, such as sautéed vegetables or grated zucchini, to the mixture.

Conclusion

Smoked meatloaf is a delicious twist on a classic dish that is sure to impress. By following this simple recipe and tips, you can create a flavorful, moist, and tender meatloaf that will have your family and friends asking for seconds. Give this recipe a try at your next barbecue or family dinner, and enjoy the comforting flavors of smoked meatloaf.