Description
This smoked meatloaf recipe delivers that nostalgic, comforting flavor with a bold smoky twist. With just 5 simple steps, you’ll create a juicy, flavorful loaf kissed by wood smoke — perfect for cozy family dinners or weekend cookouts.
Ingredients
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1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
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½ lb ground pork (optional, for added richness)
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1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
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2 large eggs
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½ cup milk
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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½ cup ketchup, divided
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2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tbsp Dijon mustard
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
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½ tsp chili powder (optional, for extra depth)
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Wood chips for smoking (hickory or applewood recommended)
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Instructions
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Prep the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, onion, garlic, ¼ cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and seasonings. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix or your loaf may get tough. -
Shape the Loaf
On a piece of parchment or foil, form the mixture into a firm loaf shape (about 8×4 inches). Let it chill in the fridge while prepping your smoker. -
Prepare Your Smoker
Preheat your smoker to 250°F (120°C) and add your favorite wood chips. Applewood or hickory adds the best balance of sweetness and boldness for meatloaf. -
Smoke the Meatloaf
Place the loaf directly on the smoker grates or in a smoker-safe pan. Smoke for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Halfway through, brush the top with the remaining ketchup.
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Rest and Slice
Let the meatloaf rest for 10–15 minutes to retain its juices. Slice and serve warm with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or your favorite BBQ sides.
Notes
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For extra smoky flavor, refrigerate the formed loaf uncovered for an hour before smoking.
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You can swap ketchup for BBQ sauce if you want a smokier glaze.
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Don’t skip the rest time after smoking — it’s key to juicy slices.
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Leftovers make amazing sandwiches!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Smoking
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: smoked meatloaf, comfort food, smoker recipe, family dinner, 5-step recipe