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Smoked meatloaf offers a delightful fusion of traditional comfort food and the rich, smoky flavors of outdoor cooking. This beloved dish takes on a new dimension when infused with the aromatic essence of wood smoke.
In this article, we’ll explore three mouthwatering smoked meatloaf recipes that elevate the familiar flavors to new heights. From classic combinations to creative twists, these recipes are sure to become favorites at your next cookout or family dinner.
1. Classic Smoked Meatloaf
This recipe maintains the essence of a classic meatloaf while adding a smoky twist. Here’s how to create this timeless delight:
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix thoroughly.
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on a wire rack.
- Smoke the meatloaf for about 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Brush the meatloaf with additional ketchup during the last 15-20 minutes of smoking for a glossy finish.
- Once done, let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
2. BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Smoked Meatloaf
Add a burst of smoky flavor and a touch of indulgence with this BBQ bacon-wrapped smoked meatloaf recipe:
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for brushing)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8-10 strips of bacon
Instructions
- Follow the same initial steps as the classic recipe to prepare the meatloaf mixture.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and wrap it with strips of bacon, securing them with toothpicks.
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
- Smoke the meatloaf for about 2-3 hours, occasionally brushing it with additional BBQ sauce.
- Once the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), remove the meatloaf from the smoker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Cheese-Stuffed Smoked Meatloaf
Elevate your smoked meatloaf with gooey cheese and savory fillings for an explosion of flavors:
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Sliced bell peppers and mushrooms (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the meatloaf mixture as in the previous recipes, adding Italian seasoning for an extra layer of flavor.
- Divide the meat mixture into two portions. Press one portion into the bottom of a loaf pan.
- Layer shredded cheddar cheese and any optional fillings (bell peppers, mushrooms, etc.) over the meat.
- Press the second portion of the meat mixture over the cheese and fillings, sealing the edges.
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
- Smoke the meatloaf for about 2-3 hours until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing into delightful cheese-stuffed portions.
These three smoked meatloaf recipes demonstrate the versatility of this classic dish when combined with the smoky goodness of outdoor cooking. Whether you prefer a traditional approach, a bacon-wrapped twist, or a cheese-stuffed explosion of flavors, these recipes offer a range of options to satisfy your taste buds. With a little creativity and a touch of smoke, your meatloaf can transform into a delicious centerpiece for any gathering.
