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Best Smoked Meatloaf

Savory Best Smoked Meatloaf with a Sweet Glaze Upgrade

This Best Smoked Meatloaf features smoky flavors and a sweet glaze, perfect for impressive weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 2 pounds Ground Beef 80/20 for best moisture and flavor
  • 1 cup Yellow Onion Finely diced
  • 2 tablespoons Garlic Minced
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Panko or oats for gluten-free
  • 1/2 cup Milk Any type
  • 2 large Eggs Use ground flaxseed for vegan
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce Use Lea & Perrins for best results
  • 1 tablespoon Horseradish Mustard Regular mustard can substitute
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Chop finely
For the Sweet and Tangy Glaze
  • 1 cup Ketchup Heinz recommended
  • 1/4 cup Brown Sugar Packed
  • 1/4 cup Honey Local honey preferred
  • 1 tablespoon Molasses Dark or light based on preference
  • 1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar Regular vinegar can substitute
  • 1 tablespoon Yellow Mustard

Equipment

  • Smoker
  • Skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • Loaf Pan
  • Meat thermometer
  • Saucepan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Best Smoked Meatloaf
  1. Finely dice the yellow onion and mince the garlic. Sauté the onion in a skillet over medium heat until translucent and soft, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside to cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs with milk and let sit for 5 minutes. Add ground beef, cooled onion, minced garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish mustard, and parsley. Mix gently to avoid overmixing.
  3. Transfer mixture onto a lined baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape into a loaf with an indentation on top to prevent doming.
  4. In a saucepan, combine ketchup, brown sugar, honey, molasses, vinegar, and mustard. Heat over medium-low, stirring until thickened, about 10-15 minutes.
  5. Preheat smoker or grill to 250°F (120°C). Ensure enough wood chips or pellets for flavor.
  6. Place the meatloaf on the smoker rack. Smoke for about 1 hour without glazing.
  7. After 1 hour, apply the glaze generously and continue to smoke for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes.
  8. Check the internal temperature with a thermometer; it should read 160°F (70°C). Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender. Let it rest after cooking for the best flavor.

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