This BBQ Glazed Meatloaf is a family favorite! It’s made with ground meat, breadcrumbs, and a tasty BBQ glaze that adds a delicious twist. Perfect for dinner any night!
Trust me, this meatloaf is a crowd-pleaser. I often whip it up when friends come over. Serve it hot with mashed potatoes, and everyone will be asking for seconds! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go with 80/20 ground beef for its balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works well too! You can also mix in some ground pork for added richness.
Breadcrumbs: Traditional white breadcrumbs offer great texture, but you can use whole wheat or gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed. Oats make an excellent substitute for a heartier texture, especially if you’re avoiding gluten.
Milk: If you’re dairy-free, try almond milk, oat milk, or any plant-based alternative. They’ll help keep the meatloaf moist without affecting the flavor much.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce, or make your own to control the sweetness and spices. For a twist, try using teriyaki sauce for a different flavor pairing!
How Can I Make My Meatloaf Extra Moist?
Keeping meatloaf moist is all about balancing the right ingredients and techniques. Here’s how to ensure your meatloaf turns out juicy and flavorful:
- Soaking the breadcrumbs in milk is key! This step helps to absorb moisture and keeps the meatloaf from drying out.
- Don’t overmix your ingredients. Just gently combine them until they are mixed; overworking can lead to tough meatloaf.
- Using ketchup in the mix adds moisture and flavor. It also contributes to a nice texture.
- Let your meatloaf rest after baking. This helps the juices distribute evenly—slice it too soon, and you may lose some of that goodness!
By following these tips, you’ll create a moist, flavorful BBQ Glazed Meatloaf that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
BBQ Glazed Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup (for inside the meatloaf)
For the BBQ Glaze:
- 3/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for smokiness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This BBQ Glazed Meatloaf takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time and 1 hour of baking. Plus, allow for 10 minutes of resting time after baking. So, you’ll be ready to serve this delicious dish in about 1 hour and 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf cooks evenly. Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture:
In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for about 5 minutes. This helps them absorb moisture, keeping the meatloaf juicy.
3. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, soaked breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Gently mix everything together until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep your meatloaf tender!
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press it down evenly to form a loaf shape. Make sure it’s compact but not too tightly packed.
5. Prepare the BBQ Glaze:
In a separate bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika to create a delicious glaze.
6. Apply the Glaze:
Spread about half of the BBQ glaze evenly over the top of the unbaked meatloaf. This will add flavor while it cooks.
7. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
8. Finish with Glaze:
About 10 minutes before the meatloaf is done baking, spread the remaining BBQ glaze on top and return it to the oven. This gives the glaze time to caramelize beautifully!
9. Let It Rest:
Once it’s done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps it hold together when you slice it.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh parsley before slicing. Serve warm, perhaps with some creamy mashed potatoes or a green vegetable. Enjoy your delicious, moist BBQ Glazed Meatloaf—a meal that’s sure to satisfy!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives for a lighter option. Just remember that these meats can be leaner than beef, so adding a bit of extra moisture (like additional milk or a splash of broth) can help keep the meatloaf juicy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also wrap individual slices in plastic wrap for easy reheating. For longer storage, freeze slices in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Can I Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance! Just mix everything together, form it into a loaf shape, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge, apply the glaze, and follow the baking instructions.
What Can I Serve with BBQ Glazed Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a simple salad. You could also serve it on a bun as a delicious meatloaf sandwich the next day!
