Zesty BBQ Meatloaf

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 1 hour
🍽 Serves: 6
★★★★★
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This Zesty BBQ Meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. With a perfect balance of tangy BBQ sauce and a hint of heat, it's the ultimate choice for a cozy family meal or a casual get-together.

Ingredients for Zesty BBQ Meatloaf

Ground beef forms the base of our meatloaf, giving it a rich, hearty texture. Opt for a mix with a bit of fat to keep the loaf moist. Breadcrumbs act as a binder, ensuring the meatloaf holds together well. Eggs add structure and help in binding everything. Milk keeps the loaf tender and moist. Onion and garlic introduce aromatic flavors that enhance the overall taste. The combination of ketchup and BBQ sauce provides a sweet and tangy base, while Worcestershire sauce adds depth. For seasoning, salt and black pepper bring out the flavors, while smoked paprika and cayenne pepper add a smoky, spicy kick.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for perfectly cooked meatloaf.
  • Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps it hold together better.
  • If you prefer a spicier loaf, increase the cayenne pepper or add some chopped jalapeños.

Serving Suggestions

This zesty meatloaf pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans. For a lighter option, serve it with a crisp, fresh salad. It's also fantastic sandwiched between crusty bread with a bit of extra BBQ sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version, but be aware the cooking time may vary slightly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven or microwave.
Can I freeze this meatloaf?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Zesty BBQ Meatloaf Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, lightly grease a loaf pan. This ensures that the meatloaf doesn't stick and makes cleanup easier.

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic. Mix them together using your hands or a sturdy spoon until everything is well incorporated.

Next, add in the ketchup, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix again until the spices and sauces are evenly distributed throughout the meat mixture.

Transfer the prepared meat mixture into the greased loaf pan. Use your hands to gently press it down and shape it evenly, ensuring there are no air pockets.

Place the loaf pan in your preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. This initial bake helps the meatloaf set and start to develop its flavors.

After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush some additional BBQ sauce over the top. This step adds a delicious glaze that caramelizes slightly as it bakes. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes.

Once done, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice perfectly moist and flavorful.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Combines the smoky flavor of BBQ with a touch of spice.
  • Uses simple, everyday ingredients you likely already have.
  • Easy to customize with your favorite BBQ sauce.

Ingredients

1.5 lbs ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup ketchup
1/4 cup BBQ sauce
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, onion, and garlic. Mix well until ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Add ketchup, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to the meat mixture. Combine thoroughly.
4. Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing down gently to shape it evenly.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
6. Remove from oven and brush additional BBQ sauce over the top for a glaze. Return to oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
7. Allow meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

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