Description
This Savory BBQ Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on the classic comfort food, combining a blend of spices, tender ground beef, and smoky BBQ sauce to create a family favorite. Baked to perfection with a sweet and tangy glaze, this hearty dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a special gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup Plain dried breadcrumbs (Use panko for extra texture)
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt (Substitute with sea salt if necessary)
- 1 tablespoon Chili powder (Adjust for desired spice level)
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper (Can be substituted with white pepper)
- 1 teaspoon Ground cumin (Substitute with smoked paprika for variation)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder (Fresh minced garlic can be used)
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder (Fresh onions can be used, adjust moisture)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup Milk (2% or whole, can replace with non-dairy milk or broth)
- 1 large egg (beaten, flax egg can be used for a vegan option)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (Soy sauce is a possible substitute)
- 1 teaspoon Unsalted liquid smoke (Omit if unavailable)
- 1 cup Thick, sweet BBQ sauce (Homemade sauce can be used for a personalized touch)
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds 80/20 ground beef (Ground turkey can work for a leaner option)
- 1 small yellow onion (finely minced, can substitute shallots or green onions)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a rimmed sheet pan with nonstick foil to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, kosher salt, chili powder, black pepper, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder using a fork to evenly distribute the spices.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the milk, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke until the mixture is well blended and uniform.
- Incorporate Meat and Onion: Add the ground beef and finely minced onion to the bowl. Gently mix with your hands just until combined to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture onto the prepared pan, shaping it into a narrow loaf that will cook evenly throughout.
- Apply BBQ Sauce and Bake: Pour half of the BBQ sauce over the top of the meatloaf. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Glaze and Continue Baking: Remove the meatloaf from the oven, pour the remaining BBQ sauce over the top, and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 25 minutes to develop a sticky, flavorful glaze.
- Rest the Meatloaf: After baking, let the meatloaf rest for 15 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, making it easier to slice and more flavorful.
Notes
- Using panko breadcrumbs adds extra texture and lightness to the meatloaf.
- Fresh garlic and onions can be used instead of powders but may increase moisture, adjust accordingly.
- Ground turkey can substitute beef for a leaner version.
- Flax egg is a vegan alternative to chicken egg, but this recipe is primarily non-vegan.
- Liquid smoke adds a subtle smoky flavor but can be omitted if not available.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf reaches a safe internal temperature of 160°F.
- Resting the meatloaf before slicing ensures it stays juicy and holds together well.
