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Smoked meatloaf resting on a wooden board with BBQ glaze and parsley

Smoked Meatloaf Recipe

Learn how to make the ultimate smoked meatloaf recipe with tips, tricks, and a step-by-step guide. Perfectly smoky, moist, and delicious!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American BBQ
Servings 6 slices
Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

  • Smoker
  • Wood Chips
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Thermometer

Ingredients
  

Meatloaf Base

  • 2 lbs ground beef 80/20 blend
  • 1/2 onion finely diced
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 egg beaten
  • 1/3 cup BBQ sauce for glazing
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your smoker to 250°F. Use wood chips of your choice for flavor infusion.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onion, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
  • Shape the meat mixture into a loaf, about 2 inches thick, for even cooking.
  • Place the meatloaf directly onto the smoker’s grill grates. Smoke for 2–3 hours, maintaining a temperature of 250°F.
  • Baste with BBQ sauce every 30 minutes for a flavorful glaze.
  • Check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. Once it reaches 160°F, remove the meatloaf from the smoker.
  • Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, experiment with different wood chips like hickory for a strong smoky taste or applewood for a sweeter note. Serve with classic sides like mashed potatoes or grilled vegetables.
Keyword BBQ, Smoked Meatloaf, Smoker Recipe