This BBQ Glazed Meatloaf is a real crowd-pleaser, packed with juicy ground beef and covered in a sweet, tangy BBQ sauce. It’s hearty and comforting, perfect for family dinners!
On chilly nights, there’s nothing better than a warm slice of this meatloaf. I love serving it with mashed potatoes and a side of veggies. Trust me, it’s a cozy meal that everyone enjoys! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80% lean ground beef ensures a juicy meatloaf. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey or chicken can work, though they may result in a drier texture. Just be mindful of cooking times.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs are essential for binding. If you’re gluten-free, almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers can be a great substitute. Oats are also a fantastic choice for a heartier texture!
Milk: Whole milk gives a rich flavor, but feel free to use any milk you have on hand, including plant-based options like almond or oat milk. They won’t affect the flavor much.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce for the glaze. If you’re short on sauce or want a healthier option, homemade sauce with ketchup, vinegar, and brown sugar can work well! You can also adjust the sweetness to your taste.
How Can I Keep My Meatloaf Moist?
Moisture is key for a great meatloaf. Here are some tips:
- Soak the breadcrumbs in milk for a tender texture. This keeps them from absorbing all the moisture from the meat.
- Don’t overmix! Combine the ingredients gently to keep the meatloaf light and fluffy.
- Include some grated veggies like zucchini or carrots for added moisture and hidden nutrition.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices in!
These tips and ingredient substitutions should help you create a delicious BBQ Glazed Meatloaf that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make BBQ Glazed Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1/2 cups BBQ sauce (divided)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ Glazed Meatloaf will take about 15 minutes to prepare and roughly 1 hour to bake. So in total, you’ve got about 1 hour and 15 minutes before you can dig into this hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to make cleanup easier when your meatloaf is done baking.
2. Soak the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk, allowing them to soak for about 5 minutes. This will make the breadcrumbs soft, ensuring a moist meatloaf.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and half (3/4 cup) of the BBQ sauce. Mix everything gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as it can make the meatloaf tough.
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press it evenly to form a loaf shape, making sure it’s packed but not overly tight.
5. BBQ Glaze it Up:
Spread the remaining 3/4 cup of BBQ sauce over the top of the meatloaf evenly. This will create a delicious glaze as it cooks.
6. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the loaf pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour. You’re looking for the internal temperature to reach 160°F (71°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
7. Final Glaze:
For an extra shiny and sticky glaze, about 5 minutes before the meatloaf is done, brush on a bit more BBQ sauce and return it to the oven.
8. Let it Rest:
Once the meatloaf is out of the oven, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
9. Serving:
Garnish the meatloaf with extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve warm with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables. Enjoy!
Now you have a mouthwatering BBQ Glazed Meatloaf that’ll be a hit at your dinner table. Happy cooking! 😊
Can I Use Alternative Meats for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes for a leaner option. Just note that they might require a little more moisture, so consider adding extra ingredients like grated veggies or some extra BBQ sauce to keep it juicy!
Is It Possible to Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance and shape it into a loaf. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before baking for even cooking!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can enjoy it cold in sandwiches or reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Freeze This Meatloaf?
Yes! You can freeze the cooked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or keep it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
