Savory Smoked Barbecue Meatloaf Deluxe
Indulge in this Savory Smoked Barbecue Meatloaf Deluxe, a delicious twist on a classic comfort food that brings smoky flavors to your dining table. Perfect for gatherings or family dinners, this meatloaf is crafted using a hearty blend of 80/20 ground beef and vibrant seasonings, delivering a juicy and flavorful bite with every slice. Topped with your favorite barbecue sauce and garnished with grilled onions, this dish is not only satisfying but also visually appealing. It's an excellent way to impress your guests while enjoying a cozy evening at home.
10
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
ground beef
5 lbs (80/20 blend)
eggs
3 large (beaten)
dried seasoned breadcrumbs
2 1/2 cups (measured)
milk
2 1/2 cups (measured)
barbecue sauce
1 cup (plus more for serving)
onion soup mix
3 ounces (Lipton or equivalent)
onion
1 (grilled for garnish)
Instructions
1
Preheat your smoker to 225°F, ensuring it has a good amount of cured applewood for a rich, smoky flavor.
2
In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the ground beef, beaten eggs, dried seasoned breadcrumbs, milk, barbecue sauce, and onion soup mix until well-blended.
3
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf form or a tube shape and place it in a tin baking pan, ensuring it is compact and even in size.
4
Transfer the pan to the preheated smoker and close the lid. Smoke the meatloaf for approximately 4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
5
Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the smoker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
6
Serve each slice drizzled with additional barbecue sauce and topped with grilled onions for added flavor and presentation.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Smoked Barbecue Meatloaf Deluxe?
It is a smoky, flavorful twist on classic meatloaf made with ground beef, vibrant seasonings, and barbecue sauce, then slow-smoked over applewood.
What type of ground beef is recommended?
This recipe calls for an 80/20 ground beef blend to ensure the meatloaf remains juicy and flavorful during the long smoking process.
How many eggs are used in the mixture?
The recipe requires 3 large eggs, beaten, to act as a binding agent for the meatloaf.
What kind of breadcrumbs should I use?
Use 2 1/2 cups of dried seasoned breadcrumbs for optimal texture and added flavor.
Is milk necessary for this meatloaf?
Yes, 2 1/2 cups of milk are used to hydrate the breadcrumbs and keep the meatloaf moist.
What temperature should I set my smoker to?
Preheat your smoker to 225 degrees Fahrenheit for the best results.
Which wood is best for smoking this meatloaf?
Cured applewood is recommended to provide a rich, sweet, and smoky flavor profile.
How long does it take to smoke the meatloaf?
The smoking process takes approximately 4 hours, depending on your smoker's consistency.
What is the target internal temperature for the meatloaf?
The meatloaf is finished when it reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can I use a specific brand of onion soup mix?
The recipe suggests using 3 ounces of Lipton or an equivalent brand of onion soup mix.
How should I shape the meat mixture?
Shape the mixture into a compact loaf or tube shape to ensure even cooking and easy slicing.
What type of pan is best for smoking the meatloaf?
A tin baking pan is recommended for placing the meatloaf inside the smoker.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe yields approximately 10 servings, making it perfect for large families or gatherings.
Should I let the meatloaf rest before serving?
Yes, letting the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after removing it from the smoker helps retain juices and makes slicing easier.
What is used for the garnish?
The meatloaf is garnished with grilled onions and an extra drizzle of barbecue sauce.
Can I use a different type of wood for smoking?
While applewood is suggested, you can experiment with hickory or cherry wood for different flavor intensities.
Is the barbecue sauce mixed in or just put on top?
One cup of barbecue sauce is mixed into the meat, and additional sauce is drizzled over the slices when serving.
How much onion soup mix is needed?
You will need 3 ounces of onion soup mix for this 5-pound batch of meat.
Can I make this meatloaf in the oven?
While designed for a smoker, you can bake it in an oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit until the internal temperature reaches 160, though it will lack the smoky flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for a party?
Yes, its large yield and unique smoky flavor make it an excellent party food or american cuisine staple.
What tools do I need for this recipe?
You will need a large mixing bowl, a tin baking pan, a smoker, and a meat thermometer.
How do I prepare the eggs?
The eggs should be beaten before being added to the mixing bowl with the other ingredients.
What makes this 'Deluxe'?
The 'Deluxe' aspect comes from the combination of slow-smoking, the specific 80/20 beef blend, and the grilled onion garnish.
Can I use 90/10 lean beef?
You can, but the meatloaf may be drier since it lacks the fat content found in the 80/20 blend.
Does the recipe include salt and pepper?
Seasoning is primarily provided by the seasoned breadcrumbs, barbecue sauce, and onion soup mix, but you can add more to taste.
Can I prepare the meat mixture in advance?
Yes, you can mix the ingredients a few hours ahead of time and keep the raw loaf refrigerated until you are ready to smoke.
How do I grill the onions for the garnish?
You can slice the onions and grill them in a pan or on the grill grates until they are softened and charred.
What sides go well with smoked meatloaf?
Mashed potatoes, grilled corn, or a fresh coleslaw pair perfectly with this smoky dish.
What should I do if the meatloaf is falling apart?
Ensure you have used enough breadcrumbs and eggs as binders, and make sure the loaf is tightly compacted before smoking.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.