This BBQ Glazed Meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic dish. It has a juicy texture and a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce that adds extra flavor. Perfect for family dinners!
I love how easy it is to whip up this meatloaf. Just mix, shape, and bake—no fuss! Serve it with mashed potatoes, and you’ve got a meal everyone will enjoy. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80% lean ground beef for the best flavor and moisture. If you prefer a healthier option, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but it may need a little extra seasoning for flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Regular bread crumbs work well, but you can use panko for a crunchier texture. If you’re gluten-free, try crushed gluten-free crackers or oats.
Onion: Finely chopped yellow onion adds sweetness. If you’re not an onion fan, shallots or even grated zucchini can be a great substitute to retain moisture.
BBQ Sauce: Your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce is perfectly fine, but homemade is even better! If you want a spicier kick, try a chipotle BBQ sauce or add hot sauce to your mix.
How Do You Keep the Meatloaf Tender?
Keeping your meatloaf tender is all about the mixing technique and moisture. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf. Here’s how to do it right:
- Gently combine ingredients until just mixed. Use your hands or a spoon, avoid mashing.
- Soak the breadcrumbs in milk for a few minutes—this adds moisture where it counts.
- Let the meatloaf rest after baking; this helps it hold its shape and keeps it juicy.
Follow these tips, and you’ll get a moist and flavorful BBQ Glazed Meatloaf every time!
BBQ Glazed Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds (680g) ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (divided, about 3/4 cup for glaze and 1/4 cup to mix in)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This BBQ Glazed Meatloaf recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 55-65 minutes to bake. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. In total, set aside about 1 hour and 30 minutes for a delicious homemade meatloaf.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup much easier!
2. Soak the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, soak the bread crumbs in milk. Let them sit for a few minutes until the milk is absorbed. This helps keep your meatloaf nice and moist.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, soaked bread crumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, parsley, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce (if using), and 1/4 cup of the BBQ sauce. With your hands or a spoon, mix everything gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—that’s the secret to a tender meatloaf!
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Take the mixture and shape it into a loaf. Place it into your prepared loaf pan or directly onto the lined baking sheet.
5. Add the BBQ Glaze:
Spread the remaining BBQ sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This will create a delicious glaze while it bakes.
6. Bake the Meatloaf:
Put the meatloaf in your preheated oven and bake for about 55-65 minutes. It’s done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C), so if you have a meat thermometer, now’s the time to use it!
7. Rest and Slice:
Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This helps it hold its shape when you slice it. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley if you’d like, and serve your juicy BBQ Glazed Meatloaf hot. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or your favorite side!
Now dig in and enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish with your family and friends!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative for a lighter meatloaf. Just make sure to add a bit more seasoning as turkey can be milder in flavor. You may also consider adding a little more moisture, like an extra splash of milk, to keep it juicy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to prevent moisture buildup.
Can I Freeze Meatloaf?
Yes, meatloaf freezes well! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to eat.
What Can I Use Instead of Worcestershire Sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, you can substitute with soy sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and vinegar. This will give a similar umami flavor to your meatloaf!
