This Meatloaf with BBQ Sauce is the perfect combination of hearty comfort food and smoky, tangy flavor.
The meatloaf is tender and juicy, thanks to the combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and flavorful seasonings, and it’s topped off with a delicious BBQ glaze that gives it a touch of sweetness and acidity.
The addition of Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion brings out the richness of the beef, while the glaze enhances the dish with its savory-sweet balance.
It’s perfect for family dinners or when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying. The recipe is simple yet full of savory goodness that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Easy to make and packed with flavor, this meatloaf is a true crowd-pleaser
Why This Meatloaf With BBQ Sauce Is A Must-Try
This Meatloaf with BBQ Sauce is a must-try because it takes a classic comfort food to the next level. The savory, tender meatloaf is perfectly seasoned and topped with a sweet and tangy BBQ glaze that adds a burst of flavor with every bite.
It’s easy to make, family-friendly, and incredibly satisfying, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners or meal prep. The combination of juicy beef, aromatic spices, and the rich BBQ sauce will leave you craving more.
How To Prepare Meatloaf With BBQ Sauce?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Course: Main Course
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300 per serving
Yield: 4 servings
Kitchen Utensils
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish or loaf pan
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Spoon or spatula
- Knife and chopping board
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or lean ground beef)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp meatloaf seasoning
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the BBQ Glaze:
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
How To Make Meatloaf With BBQ Sauce
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the meatloaf mixture by combining ground beef, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, meatloaf seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl.
3. Mix well using your hands or a spoon until everything is evenly incorporated. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan.
4. Make the BBQ glaze by mixing BBQ sauce, honey (or brown sugar), and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl until smooth.
5. Pour the glaze evenly over the meatloaf, covering the top and sides.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Special Note
❖ Lean Beef Option: For a healthier version, you can use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as leaner meats may cook faster.
❖ Customizable Glaze: Feel free to adjust the BBQ glaze to your taste. You can add more honey for sweetness, vinegar for tang, or even a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
❖ Make-Ahead Friendly: This meatloaf can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It also freezes well, so you can prepare it in advance for future meals.
❖ Rest Before Slicing: Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps retain its juices, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
How To Serve
To serve your meatloaf with BBQ sauce, slice it into hearty portions and place it on a plate alongside your favorite side dishes. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
For a comforting touch, add a side of cornbread or garlic bread. The rich BBQ glaze on top of the meatloaf adds a burst of flavor that complements the savory sides perfectly.
Enjoy this classic comfort food with your family or guests for a satisfying meal!
How To Make More Tastier?
To make your meatloaf with BBQ sauce even tastier, try these 5 flavorful additions:
1. Add a Dash of Smoked Paprika
Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor that complements the BBQ sauce. Just a teaspoon mixed into the meatloaf mixture will elevate the taste and give it an extra layer of depth.
2. Use Bacon
For a rich, savory kick, chop up some crispy bacon and mix it into the meatloaf. The bacon adds both flavor and moisture, making the meatloaf even more delicious.
3. Incorporate Cheese
Adding shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, to the meat mixture gives your meatloaf a creamy, cheesy texture. It melts beautifully inside and creates pockets of gooey goodness.
4. Add Fresh Herbs
Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can make a big difference. Finely chop and mix them into the meatloaf for an aromatic, herby flavor that complements the BBQ sauce.
5. Mix in Sautéed Onions and Garlic
For a deeper, sweeter flavor, sauté onions and garlic until caramelized, then mix them into the meatloaf. This will bring a rich sweetness and a fragrant aroma to the dish.
What Is The Secret To Moist Meatloaf?
The secret to a moist meatloaf lies in balancing ingredients that retain moisture, such as breadcrumbs, milk, and eggs.
These ingredients bind the meat together while keeping it tender. Additionally, using a mix of lean and fatty meat, like 80/20 ground beef, ensures juiciness.
Avoid overmixing the meat, as this can lead to a dense, dry loaf. Lastly, resting the meatloaf before slicing helps lock in the moisture.
Can You Put BBQ Sauce On Meat Before Cooking?
Yes, you can put BBQ sauce on meat before cooking, especially when making meatloaf. Adding the BBQ sauce before baking allows it to caramelize, giving the meatloaf a rich, tangy flavor.
However, it’s important to use a modest amount to avoid overwhelming the meat’s natural taste. Some people prefer to reserve a portion of the sauce to add during the last few minutes of cooking for a glossy, flavorful finish.
How To Store Leftovers
To store leftovers of your meatloaf with BBQ sauce, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container.
Refrigerate the leftovers for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices of meatloaf in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
This way, your meatloaf will stay fresh for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
More Delicious BBQ Sauce
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that these meats tend to be drier, so you might need to add a bit more moisture, such as an extra tablespoon of milk or a small amount of olive oil, to keep the meatloaf tender.
Can I make the BBQ sauce from scratch?
Absolutely! Homemade BBQ sauce can add a personal touch and adjust the flavor to your liking. Combine ingredients like ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika for a tasty homemade version.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
To check if your meatloaf is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, ensure the meatloaf is firm and no longer pink in the center when you cut into it.
Can I freeze meatloaf with BBQ sauce?
Yes, you can freeze both the meatloaf and the BBQ sauce. Allow the meatloaf to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat in the oven.
Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
Absolutely! Adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and add nutrition. Just make sure to chop them finely to maintain the meatloaf’s texture. You can sauté them first to release moisture and prevent the meatloaf from becoming too watery.
Conclusion
This meatloaf with BBQ sauce recipe is a delicious twist on a classic favorite. With its savory meatloaf base and tangy, sweet BBQ glaze, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Making it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Feel free to get creative by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the BBQ sauce to suit your tastes. I hope you enjoy making and eating this flavorful dish as much as I do! Happy cooking!
Meatloaf With BBQ Sauce
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish or loaf pan
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Spoon or spatula
- Knife and chopping board
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20 or lean ground beef
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp meatloaf seasoning
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the BBQ Glaze:
- ½ cup BBQ sauce store-bought or homemade
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the meatloaf mixture by combining ground beef, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, meatloaf seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl.
- Mix well using your hands or a spoon until everything is evenly incorporated. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan.
- Make the BBQ glaze by mixing BBQ sauce, honey (or brown sugar), and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl until smooth.
- Pour the glaze evenly over the meatloaf, covering the top and sides.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!