This BBQ glazed meatloaf is like a cozy hug on a plate. It’s made juicy with ground meat and topped with a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce that really makes it shine!
I love making this meatloaf because it’s super simple and perfect for dinner. Plus, there are always yummy leftovers waiting for me the next day. Who doesn’t love a sandwich? 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: Using ground beef gives a rich flavor, but if you want a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken. Mixing beef with pork adds extra juiciness—a personal favorite!
Onion: A small yellow or white onion works best for sweetness. If you’re short on fresh onions, powdered onion (1 teaspoon) can be a quick substitute.
Breadcrumbs: They help bind everything. If you’re gluten-free, try almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead. Oats can also work in a pinch!
BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce for the glaze. You can also make your own by mixing ketchup with a bit of vinegar, mustard, and spices if you’re low on store-bought.
How Can I Keep My Meatloaf Tender?
To ensure your meatloaf is moist and tender, the key is in mixing! Start by soaking the breadcrumbs in milk, as this helps keep it from being dry.
- Mix the meat and ingredients gently; don’t overdo it! Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.
- Let it rest after baking to seal in the juices.
- Check the internal temperature; when it hits 160°F (71°C), it’s perfectly cooked!
These steps will help you create a flavorful and juicy BBQ glazed meatloaf every time! Enjoy your cooking!
BBQ Glazed Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or a mixture of beef, pork, and veal)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
For the BBQ Glaze:
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and approximately 1 hour of cooking time. So, in total, you can expect to have your BBQ glazed meatloaf ready in about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Perfect for a satisfying dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that warms up, you can prepare your loaf pan by lightly greasing it or lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk. Let them sit for a few minutes so they can soften. This step is crucial for keeping your meatloaf moist and tender.
3. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, soaked breadcrumbs, eggs, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix everything gently but thoroughly until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—that’s the secret to a tender meatloaf!
4. Shape and Place the Meatloaf:
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape and put it in the prepared loaf pan or onto the baking sheet. Don’t worry about making it perfect; a rustic look is totally fine!
5. Make the BBQ Glaze:
In a separate small bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar to create the delicious glaze.
6. Glaze the Meatloaf:
Brush half of the BBQ glaze generously over the top of the meatloaf. This will add amazing flavor as it bakes.
7. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. You want it to be nice and browned on the outside.
8. Add More Glaze:
After 45 minutes, take the meatloaf out of the oven, brush on the remaining BBQ glaze, and return it to the oven. Bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). That’s when you know it’s perfectly cooked!
9. Rest Before Slicing:
Once out of the oven, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing it. This resting period helps it hold together and keeps all those delicious juices inside.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your BBQ glazed meatloaf warm, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped parsley if desired. Pair it with your favorite sides, like creamy mashed potatoes or crunchy coleslaw, for a complete meal!
Enjoy your tender, juicy BBQ glazed meatloaf with a delicious tangy glaze that’s beautifully shiny and full of flavor!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just keep in mind that it might be slightly drier than beef, so adding a bit more moisture, like a splash of sauce or an extra egg, can help keep it juicy.
How Can I Make This Meatloaf Gluten-Free?
No problem! Simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives, like almond flour, crushed gluten-free crackers, or oats. Ensure that your BBQ sauce is also gluten-free for a safe dish.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can also slice and freeze it for later—just make sure to wrap it well!
Can I Prepare This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled when you put it in the oven.
