This smoked meatloaf is a hearty and tasty twist on a classic dish. With smoky flavors mingling with ground beef and spices, it’s sure to impress at your dinner table!
Getting that smoky taste is the real hero here! I love adding a side of mashed potatoes for a cozy meal. Just don’t forget the ketchup on top—it’s a must! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go for 85% lean ground beef for a nice balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for lower fat options, turkey or chicken works well too, just adjust cooking times as they may require less time to cook.
Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs are great for binding the loaf. In a pinch, crushed crackers or even oats can work as substitutes. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also available if you need a gluten-free option.
Cheese: Cheddar or mozzarella offers delicious melty goodness. However, you can get creative with pepper jack for some spice, or even cream cheese for a richer filling!
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds depth to the flavor. If you don’t have it, soy sauce can be a good stand-in, although it might taste a bit different.
How Do I Get the Perfect Smoky Flavor?
Smoking meatloaf may sound tricky, but it’s all about patience and the right setup! Follow these tips to nail that smoky goodness.
- Use a solid choice of wood chips, like hickory or applewood, for a balanced smoke flavor.
- Keep the smoker at a steady 225°F (107°C). A reliable meat thermometer is your best friend here!
- Don’t rush the cooking. Low and slow is essential to keep the meatloaf tender while soaking in the smoky flavor.
Happy smoking! Enjoy your meal with all the tasty sides you love!
Smoked Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup (plus additional for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 oz sliced cheddar or mozzarella cheese (for stuffing)
- Olive oil or cooking spray (for greasing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty smoked meatloaf takes about 15 minutes to prepare, followed by approximately 3 hours of smoking time. Just give it some patience, and you’ll end up with a deliciously smoky dish that’s well worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Smoker:
Get your smoker fired up by preheating it to 225°F (107°C). Use wood chips like hickory or applewood to infuse that yummy smoky flavor into your meatloaf.
2. Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture:
In a large bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk until they absorb it fully (this takes about 5 minutes). This step helps keep the meatloaf moist.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, 1/4 cup of ketchup, yellow mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper into the breadcrumb mixture. Mix everything together gently so you don’t overwork the meat, which keeps it tender.
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
On a large piece of parchment paper or a clean work surface, take half of the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf. Make it about 1-inch thick.
5. Add the Cheese:
Lay the slices of cheese evenly over the formed meatloaf, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges. This will keep the cheese inside when you shape the second half!
6. Seal the Cheese Inside:
Take the remaining meat mixture and spread it over the cheese, forming a complete loaf and sealing the edges to keep the cheese tucked inside.
7. Place in the Smoker:
Transfer the meatloaf (parchment paper included if using) onto a smoker-safe pan or directly onto a greased rack in the smoker.
8. Start Smoking:
Smoke the meatloaf for about 3 hours, or until its internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
9. Glaze the Meatloaf:
For added flavor, brush a bit of ketchup on top of the meatloaf during the last 30 minutes of cooking time.
10. Let It Rest:
Once done, carefully remove the meatloaf from the smoker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps all the flavors settle in.
11. Serve & Enjoy!
Once rested, slice the meatloaf and serve it warm. Optional: Sprinkle with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for a lovely finishing touch. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or your favorite grilled veggies!
Now you’re all set to enjoy a classic meal with a delightful smoky twist. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even pork. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as leaner meats may cook faster than beef.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze individual portions wrapped in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Make This Meatloaf Without a Smoker?
Yes! You can bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). For a smoky flavor, try adding a few drops of liquid smoke to the meat mixture or using smoked paprika.
What Can I Serve with Smoked Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it on a bun for a delicious meatloaf sandwich the next day!
