Let’s dig in: I’ll start by sharing why this BBQ‑glazed meatloaf is irresistibly tender, guide you through a simple step‑by‑step assembly, spotlight creative tweaks, answer your key FAQs, and wrap up with a comforting conclusion that’ll have you ready to serve seconds.
Table of Contents
Why This BBQ Glazed Meatloaf Wins Hearts
This isn’t just meatloaf—it’s meatloaf with a bold, smoky BBQ twist. The combination of ground beef, spices, and a tangy-sweet BBQ glaze creates layers of flavor and locked-in moisture that stay juicy slice after slice. The syrupy glaze caramelizes in the oven, delivering a glossy coating and smokiness that elevates every bite. It’s a crowd-pleasing upgrade—and if you love rich textures and bold flavor, my Ultimate Best Meatloaf keeps that tender promise without the BBQ glaze splash.
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BBQ Glazed Meatloaf – Sweet, Smoky & So Tender
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 4–5 servings
Description
This BBQ glazed meatloaf brings the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory. A homemade meatloaf recipe that’s comforting, bold, and crowd-pleasing every time.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
1 large egg, beaten
1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
1/4 cup milk
1/2 cup finely diced onion
1 tsp garlic powder or 1 clove minced garlic (optional)
1/3 cup BBQ sauce (plus 2 Tbsp for topping)
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
Salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease or line a loaf pan with foil.
3. In a bowl, mix beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire, and spices.
4. Do not overmix—combine just until even.
5. Press the mixture into the prepared loaf pan.
6. Spread 1/3 cup BBQ sauce over the top.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then brush with remaining 2 Tbsp BBQ sauce.
8. Continue baking another 15–20 minutes, until internal temp reaches 160°F.
9. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
For extra smoky flavor, use a chipotle BBQ sauce or add a dash of liquid smoke.
Can be made ahead and stored in the fridge before baking.
Pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or mac and cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 92mg
Keywords: bbq meatloaf, glazed meatloaf, homemade meatloaf, comfort food
Ingredients & What You’ll Need
Here’s your shopping list for a tender and smoky masterpiece—simple pantry staples with big taste impact:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef (80% lean) | 1 lb |
| Large egg, beaten | 1 |
| Breadcrumbs or crushed crackers | ½ cup |
| Milk | ¼ cup |
| Onion, finely diced | ½ cup |
| Garlic powder or minced (optional) | 1 tsp or 1 clove |
| BBQ sauce (divided) | ⅓ cup + 2 Tbsp |
| Worcestershire sauce (optional) | 1 tsp |
| Salt, pepper, smoked paprika | To taste |
This mix creates deep flavor fast. If you want a richer, cheesy spin—think melted threads of cheddar—check out the comforting flair in my Southern‑Style Cheesy Meatloaf.
Step‑By‑Step: How to Build This Meatloaf Right
- Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C).
- Line a loaf pan with foil or grease lightly.
- In a bowl, gently mix beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic (if using), Worcestershire, and spices. Avoid overmixing.
- Press the mixture evenly into the loaf pan.
- Spread ⅓ cup BBQ sauce over the top.
- Bake for 30 minutes; then brush with the remaining 2 Tbsp BBQ sauce.
- Continue baking for another 15–20 minutes, until meat thermometer reads 160 °F.
- Let rest 10 minutes before slicing—this keeps it boasting tender juicy slices with glossy, flavorful top.
Resting is essential—it helps hold juices and creates cleaner slices. If you’re short on time, try my Mini Meatloaf Muffins for a speedy single-bite twist.
Creative Twists, Serving Pairings & FAQs
Upgrade Ideas & Serving Suggestions
Looking for flavor depth? Try these enhancements:
- **Smoky heat**: Add ¼ tsp chipotle or cayenne for a spicy kick.
- **Sweet and savory**: Mix in a spoonful of brown sugar with the BBQ sauce.
- **Topping variation**: Swap BBQ sauce for a sweet honey-mustard glaze.
Finish with mashed sweet potatoes, grilled corn, or coleslaw to round out that BBQ-inspired spread. If you love sweet-savory glazes, my Brown Sugar Glazed Meatloaf gives you that additional caramel punch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this?
Yes—this loaf freezes beautifully, either baked or raw. Wrap tightly and use within 3 months. Thaw before reheating or baking.
How to keep it moist?
Key is using 80% lean beef, adding milk, avoiding pasta-like mixing, and resting post-bake.
Can I prep ahead?
Absolutely—mix, shape, and cover in fridge up to 6 hours ahead.
What’s the safe internal temp?
Bake until reaching 160 °F, then slice when snug at ~165 °F.
This BBQ Glazed Meatloaf delivers that sweet, smoky, tender, and oh-so-comforting bite—with minimal prep. The glaze adds caramelized flair, while the meat stays consistently moist. It’s the kind of dinner that gets rave reviews without needing hours in the kitchen.
Let it rest, slice generously, serve with your favorite sides, and enjoy the hearty hug in every mouthful. Comfort with a kick—that’s BBQ glazed perfection.