If you love the comforting taste of classic meatloaf, you’ll be blown away by smoked meatloaf.
This recipe adds a smoky, BBQ twist that makes the dish even more mouthwatering. It’s easy to make, loaded with flavor, and perfect for weekend cookouts or weekday family dinners.
Let’s dive into how you can make this smoky favorite right in your backyard.
1. Classic Smoked Meatloaf
This smoked meatloaf is made with a blend of ground beef, breadcrumbs, onions, eggs, and spices. What sets it apart is the slow smoking process that gives it a deep, wood-fired flavor. You can use hickory or applewood for a balanced smoky taste. It’s juicy inside and crispy outside—just perfect.
2. Bacon-Wrapped Smoked Meatloaf
Take your meatloaf to the next level by wrapping it in bacon before smoking. The bacon locks in moisture and adds a savory crunch on the outside. As it smokes, the bacon becomes perfectly crisp, and the inside stays tender and flavorful. It’s a meat lover’s dream come true.
3. BBQ Glazed Smoked Meatloaf
This version includes a rich barbecue glaze brushed over the meatloaf during the final stage of smoking. The sweet and tangy BBQ sauce caramelizes on the outside, creating a sticky, flavorful crust. It adds a bold kick that pairs perfectly with the smoky meat and makes every bite pop with flavor.
4. Cheese-Stuffed Smoked Meatloaf
For a gooey surprise, stuff your meatloaf with shredded cheddar or mozzarella. As the loaf smokes, the cheese melts inside, creating a creamy, cheesy center that everyone will love. This version is especially fun for kids and adds a new layer of richness to the traditional smoked meatloaf.
5. Smoked Meatloaf with Veggies
Add finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini into the meat mixture to make a veggie-packed version. It’s a great way to sneak in extra nutrients and add a touch of sweetness and crunch. This lighter version is still packed with smoky flavor and is a great option for balanced meals.
6. Texas-Style Smoked BBQ Meatloaf
In Texas, smoked meatloaf gets a bold twist with spicy rubs and smoky mesquite wood. Often topped with a spicy BBQ glaze, this version is all about strong flavors and heat. If you’re in or around Texas—or just love Texas BBQ—this is the meatloaf for you.
7. Smoked Turkey Meatloaf
Looking for a leaner option? Try smoked turkey meatloaf. Made with ground turkey and the same smoky technique, it’s a lighter dish with just as much flavor. Add herbs like thyme and parsley for extra freshness. It’s a guilt-free twist that still delivers on taste.
8. Pellet Grill Smoked Meatloaf
Using a pellet grill like a Traeger makes smoking meatloaf easier and more consistent. You can set the temperature, pick your favorite wood pellets, and let it cook low and slow. It’s a great way to make perfect smoked meatloaf without the guesswork.
9. Smoked Meatloaf with Jalapeños
This spicy twist adds diced jalapeños right into the meat mixture. It gives the loaf a little kick without overpowering the smoky flavor. The peppers blend beautifully with the meat and create a bold, mouth-tingling bite. Perfect for anyone who loves smoky comfort food with a touch of heat.
10. Smoked Meatloaf with Sweet Onion Glaze
In this version, a homemade sweet onion glaze is brushed on top before smoking. Made with caramelized onions, brown sugar, and a splash of vinegar, the glaze adds a sweet and tangy layer. It melts into the meat as it cooks, adding a rich flavor that’s both rustic and gourmet.
Smoked meatloaf is a fun and flavorful twist on a comforting classic. Whether you like it bacon-wrapped, cheese-stuffed, or coated in BBQ glaze, there’s a version that fits your taste. It’s easy to make on any smoker or pellet grill, and your family is sure to love it. Give it a try, and let the smoky aroma fill your backyard!
