This BBQ Glazed Meatloaf is a family favorite! It’s made with ground meat, tasty seasonings, and a sticky BBQ glaze that makes every bite mouthwatering.
Honestly, who could say no to a meaty loaf smothered in BBQ sauce? I love serving it with mashed potatoes for the perfect meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend (80% meat, 20% fat) for the juiciest results. If you’re aiming for a lighter option, lean turkey or chicken also works well and can be just as flavorful.
Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs help bind the meatloaf. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed oats. Both perform well and give a nice texture.
Onion: A small onion adds great flavor. For a milder taste, use green onions or shallots. You can also use dried onion if you’re in a pinch.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds depth and umami flavor. If you’re looking for a substitute, soy sauce can also work, though it will give a tiny bit of a different flavor.
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite brand! If you are watching sugar intake, look for a low-sugar version. You can also make homemade BBQ sauce if you prefer a more personal touch.
How Do I Prevent My Meatloaf from Being Dry?
The secret to moist meatloaf is the right balance of ingredients and cooking technique. Properly combine moist ingredients like milk and egg with the meat while being careful not to over-mix, which can make it tough.
- Use your hands or a spatula to mix gently until just combined. This keeps the texture nice.
- Don’t skip the resting time after baking! Letting it rest for about 10 minutes helps keep the juices inside when you slice it.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time and use a meat thermometer to be precise. Aim for 160°F (71°C) for perfectly cooked meatloaf.
BBQ Glazed Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup milk
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- ¾ cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for glazing)
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ Glazed Meatloaf takes about 15 minutes to prep and requires about 1 hour in the oven. After baking, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. In total, you can expect about 1 hour and 25 minutes from start to finish, making it a great weeknight dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf bakes evenly. Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until everything is just combined; be careful not to over-mix, as that can make the meatloaf tough.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Take the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf form (about 9×5 inches). Place the shaped meatloaf on the prepared baking sheet or into the loaf pan, ensuring it’s nicely packed together.
4. Add BBQ Sauce:
Spread about half of the BBQ sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This will caramelize as it cooks and create a delicious glaze!
5. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. This gives it a nice foundation of cooked flavor.
6. Glaze and Continue Baking:
After 45 minutes, take the meatloaf out of the oven and brush the remaining BBQ sauce generously over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Rest Before Slicing:
Once fully cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist and tender when sliced.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives if you like, and serve warm. This BBQ glazed meatloaf pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives for a leaner version of meatloaf. Just keep in mind that they might have a slightly different flavor profile, so you could consider adding a bit more seasoning for extra flavor.
How Can I Customize the BBQ Flavor?
Feel free to use your favorite brand of BBQ sauce to tailor the flavor to your liking! You can also play around with adding spices or sauces like hot sauce for a spicy kick or honey for sweetness. Just adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.
Can I Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients and shape it into a loaf, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready, just add extra time if it goes into the oven straight from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat slices in the microwave or in the oven at a low temperature. For longer storage, consider freezing slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil for up to 3 months—just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating!
