Smoked Meatloaf is a game-changer for your dinner table! This delicious dish combines the comfort of traditional meatloaf with the unique flavors from smoking, resulting in a juicy and flavorful meal. Perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners, this Traeger Meatloaf elevates your usual recipe with the rich, smoky goodness that only an electric smoker can provide. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting out, this recipe promises to impress.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Unbelievable Flavor: The combination of smoked meat and melted cheese creates a rich taste that will keep you coming back for more.
Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this mouthwatering dish without any hassle.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a relaxed weekend dinner, this smoked meatloaf fits right in.
Customizable Ingredients: You can easily swap out meats or add spices to suit your personal taste preferences.
Feeds a Crowd: This recipe serves eight, making it ideal for family gatherings or potluck events.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of Smoked Meatloaf, ensure you have the right tools on hand. These will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

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Essential Tools and Equipment

Importance of Each Tool

Electric smoker: This tool provides that wonderful smoky flavor essential for making the best smoked meatloaf.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients without creating a mess.
Meat thermometer: Ensures your meatloaf reaches the perfect internal temperature for safety and optimal flavor.

Ingredients

This Traeger Meatloaf is smoked on your electric smoker and full of flavor! It takes your favorite traditional meatloaf recipe with cheese and gives it an amazing smoky flavor!

Meat Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 pound ground pork
8 strips bacon (cooked and chopped)

Binder Ingredients

2 eggs (whisked)
½ cup Italian Panko bread crumbs
¼ cup milk

Seasoning Ingredients

1 teaspoon seasoned salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Vegetable Ingredients

½ cup yellow onion (chopped)

Cheese Ingredient

2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)

How to Make Smoked Meatloaf

Step 1: Preheat Your Smoker

Begin by preheating your electric smoker to 325 degrees Fahrenheit according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This ensures that your meatloaf will cook evenly.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients:
1. Add the ground beef, ground pork, cooked bacon, whisked eggs, Panko bread crumbs, milk, seasoned salt, garlic powder, chopped onion, black pepper, and shredded cheddar cheese.
2. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf form.

Step 3: Smoke the Meatloaf

Place your formed meatloaf onto the smoker grates:
1. Close the lid and smoke until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This should take about 1 ½ hours.
2. Keep an eye on the temperature using your meat thermometer to ensure perfect results.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

Once done:
1. Remove the meatloaf from the smoker.
2. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
3. Serve warm with your favorite sides and enjoy!

How to Serve Smoked Meatloaf

Serving smoked meatloaf can be an enjoyable experience for family and friends. This flavorful dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes that enhance its smoky taste.

With Classic Toppings

Ketchup or BBQ Sauce: A drizzle of ketchup or your favorite BBQ sauce adds a sweet tang.
Chopped Fresh Herbs: Garnish with parsley or chives for added freshness and color.

As a Sandwich

Between Two Slices of Bread: Transform leftovers into a delicious sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and pickles.
On a Toasted Bun: Use a toasted bun for a hearty meal; add cheese for extra flavor.

With Unique Pairings

Avocado Slices: Avocado adds creaminess and balances the smoky flavors of the meatloaf.
Grilled Vegetables: Serve alongside grilled veggies for a colorful and healthy plate.

On a Charcuterie Board

Meatloaf Slices: Include slices of smoked meatloaf on your charcuterie board with cheeses and crackers.
Pickled Veggies: Add pickled vegetables to complement the richness of the meatloaf.

How to Perfect Smoked Meatloaf

To ensure your smoked meatloaf is perfectly cooked every time, follow these handy tips.

Choose Quality Meat: Use fresh ground beef and pork for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t Skip the Bacon: Including chopped bacon enhances moisture and adds depth to your meatloaf’s flavor.
Let it Rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest after smoking helps retain its juices, making it more tender.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safety.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to mix in your favorite spices or herbs to customize the flavor profile.
Consider Adding Glaze: A glaze made of ketchup or brown sugar during the last few minutes of smoking can enhance sweetness.

Best Side Dishes for Smoked Meatloaf

Pairing side dishes with smoked meatloaf can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement its rich flavors.

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and balance out the smoky taste.
Green Beans Almondine: This dish offers a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the softness of meatloaf.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is an excellent summer side that goes well with barbecue flavors.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, making it a refreshing partner to meatloaf.
Baked Macaroni and Cheese: The cheesy goodness pairs beautifully with smoky meat, creating a hearty plate.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These vegetables add an earthy touch that complements the savory aspects of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making smoked meatloaf can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Ignoring the temperature: Not preheating your smoker properly can lead to uneven cooking. Always ensure your smoker reaches 325 degrees Fahrenheit before placing the meatloaf inside.
Overmixing the ingredients: Mixing too much can make your meatloaf dense and tough. Combine the ingredients gently until just mixed for a tender result.
Skipping the resting time: Cutting into the meatloaf too soon will cause it to lose moisture. Allow it to rest for at least 5 minutes after smoking for juicier slices.
Not checking doneness: Using a thermometer is crucial. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit to guarantee it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
Using low-quality meat: The type of ground beef or pork affects flavor and texture. Opt for fresh, high-quality meat for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Smoked Meatloaf

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Smoked Meatloaf

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place slices on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place slices on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm, being careful not to overcook.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions people often ask about smoked meatloaf:

What is Smoked Meatloaf?

Smoked meatloaf is a flavorful twist on traditional meatloaf, incorporating smoky flavors from an electric smoker, enhancing its taste.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for varied flavors in your smoked meatloaf.

How long does it take to smoke meatloaf?

Smoking typically takes about 1 ½ hours at 325 degrees Fahrenheit until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Can I add vegetables to my smoked meatloaf?

Absolutely! Chopped bell peppers or carrots can add extra flavor and moisture, making your smoked meatloaf even more delicious.

What should I serve with smoked meatloaf?

Classic sides include mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables, which complement the smoky flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Smoked Meatloaf recipe offers a delightful mix of familiar comfort food with an exciting smoky twist. It’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients or sides. Give it a try and enjoy a meal that brings warmth and satisfaction!

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Smoked Meatloaf

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Author: Nora
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Yield: Serves 8

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Description

Smoked Meatloaf is a delicious twist on a classic comfort dish, bringing together the rich flavors of smoked meat, melted cheese, and crispy bacon. Perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners, this Traeger Meatloaf packs a flavor punch that’s sure to impress everyone at your table. The electric smoker infuses the meatloaf with a unique smoky goodness, resulting in a juicy and savory meal that elevates your typical weeknight dinner. Easy to prepare and fully customizable, this recipe allows you to tailor it to your taste preferences while serving up to eight people.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef
1 pound ground pork
8 strips cooked and chopped bacon
2 eggs
½ cup Italian Panko bread crumbs
¼ cup milk
½ cup chopped yellow onion
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon ground black pepper

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Instructions

Preheat your electric smoker to 325°F.
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, bacon, eggs, Panko bread crumbs, milk, chopped onion, cheese, and seasonings. Mix well until combined.
Shape the mixture into a loaf form and place it on the smoker grates.
Smoke for about 1.5 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Remove from the smoker and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 90 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Smoking
Cuisine: American