Description

This Smoky Barbecue Glazed Meatloaf offers a comforting and flavorful twist on a classic dish. Ground beef is combined with aromatic spices, onions, garlic, and a mix of tangy barbecue sauce and smoky paprika, then baked to perfection with a glossy barbecue glaze on top. The result is a moist, tender meatloaf packed with smoky, savory flavors that’s perfect for a hearty family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatloaf Mixture

1 ½ pounds ground beef
1 cup bread crumbs
1 cup milk
1 egg
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
½ cup barbecue sauce
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon chili powder

Glaze & Garnish

½ cup barbecue sauce, divided (¼ cup for brushing before baking and ¼ cup for glazing after initial baking)
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking tray or loaf pan to prevent sticking.
Soak bread crumbs: In a large bowl, combine the bread crumbs and milk, letting them soak together for about a minute to soften the crumbs and ensure moisture in the meatloaf.
Combine ingredients: Add the ground beef, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, ½ cup barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and chili powder to the soaked bread crumb mixture.
Mix gently: Mix all the ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture, which can make the meatloaf tough.
Shape meatloaf: Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it on the prepared baking tray or inside the loaf pan.
Brush with barbecue sauce: Brush the top of the formed meatloaf with ¼ cup of barbecue sauce to create a flavorful crust during baking.
Bake initially: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, allowing the meat to cook through while the sauce begins to caramelize.
Glaze the meatloaf: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and apply the remaining ¼ cup of barbecue sauce evenly over the top for an enhanced smoky glaze.
Finish baking: Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
Rest before slicing: Remove from oven and allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes to let juices redistribute, making it easier to slice and more flavorful.
Garnish and serve: Optionally garnish with freshly chopped parsley before slicing and serving for a fresh, vibrant touch.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender.
Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is safely cooked.
Letting the meatloaf rest after baking helps retain juiciness.
Using freshly minced garlic and finely chopped onions enhances flavor and texture.
The barbecue sauce adds both moisture and a smoky sweetness; adjust quantity to taste.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: meatloaf, barbecue meatloaf, smoky meatloaf, baked meatloaf, dinner, classic meatloaf, comfort food