Loaded BBQ Meatloaf

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This Loaded BBQ Meatloaf takes classic comfort food to the next level with juicy seasoned ground beef, smoky BBQ flavor, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon—all finished with a sweet and tangy BBQ glaze. It’s an easy family dinner that’s packed with flavor and perfect alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or mac and cheese.

🛒 Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

  • 900 g ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup milk
  • 2 tbsp BBQ sauce
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

For the BBQ Glaze

  • ½ cup BBQ sauce
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking tray with parchment paper.
  2. Make the meatloaf mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, diced onion, garlic, milk, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Add the fillings: Gently fold in ½ cup of the cheddar cheese and half of the crumbled bacon. Avoid overmixing so the meatloaf stays tender.
  4. Shape the loaf: Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and shape it into an even loaf.
  5. Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, combine the BBQ sauce and brown sugar. Stir until smooth.
  6. Glaze: Spread the BBQ mixture generously over the entire surface of the meatloaf.
  7. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 50–55 minutes.
  8. Load it up: Remove the meatloaf and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon over the top. Return it to the oven for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly.
  9. Rest: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps each slice moist and tender.

🔥 Tips for the Best BBQ Meatloaf

  • Use ground beef with some fat content, such as 80/20, for a juicier meatloaf.
  • Don’t overmix the beef mixture, as this can make the finished meatloaf dense.
  • For an extra smoky flavor, add a little more smoked paprika or use a smoky BBQ sauce.
  • Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing is important—it helps prevent the juices from running out.
  • For food safety, cook ground beef to an internal temperature of 71°C (160°F).

🍽️ What to Serve With It

This meatloaf pairs beautifully with:

  • Creamy mashed potatoes
  • Mac and cheese
  • Roasted broccoli
  • Garlic green beans
  • Corn on the cob
  • Dinner rolls
  • Coleslaw

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60–65 minutes
Resting Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 6–8

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