Are you tired of the same old weeknight dinners? Craving something flavorful, comforting, and surprisingly easy? Then look no further! This smoked meatloaf recipe, cooked to perfection on your Traeger, is about to become your new favorite. Forget dry, bland meatloaf; this recipe delivers juicy, smoky goodness that will impress the whole family. It's a delicious dish that perfectly blends the ease of a classic comfort food with the smoky depth only a Traeger grill can provide. This is the ultimate in homemade cooking, offering a healthy and satisfying meal without sacrificing flavor. Get ready for a quick dinner idea that's anything but ordinary!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 0.5 lbs ground pork
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind!)
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Traeger: Preheat your Traeger to 275°F (135°C) using your preferred wood pellets (hickory or apple wood work wonderfully). Ensure the grill is clean and ready for cooking.
-
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
-
Shape the Meatloaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape. You can use a loaf pan for a neater shape, or simply form it directly on a piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil for easier transfer to the grill.
-
Smoke the Meatloaf: Place the meatloaf on the preheated Traeger grill. Smoke for approximately 2-2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked thoroughly. During the last 30 minutes, baste the meatloaf generously with your favorite BBQ sauce.
-
Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the Traeger and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf. Serve with your favorite sides – mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad all pair wonderfully.
Cooking Tips for Traeger Smoked Meatloaf:
- Don't overmix the meat: Gentle mixing prevents a tough meatloaf.
- Use a meat thermometer: This ensures your meatloaf is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking times may vary depending on the size of your meatloaf and your Traeger's temperature.
- Experiment with wood pellets: Different wood pellets impart unique smoky flavors.
Variations:
- Spicy Meatloaf: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture for a kick.
- Cheesy Meatloaf: Mix in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite type of cheese into the meatloaf mixture.
- Veggie Meatloaf: Add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the mixture for a healthier twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This smoked meatloaf recipe is a testament to how simple, delicious, and healthy meals can be. It's the perfect blend of comfort food and elevated smoky flavor, making it ideal for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions. Enjoy!