This Smoked Meatloaf is a delightful twist on the classic dish, perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a cozy night in. The rich flavors of ground beef and pork harmonize beautifully, while the smoky essence from the electric smoker elevates this meatloaf to a whole new level. It’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests with its juicy texture and cheesy goodness.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of ground beef, pork, and bacon delivers mouthwatering taste in every bite.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a backyard barbecue, this smoked meatloaf fits right in.
Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a show-stopping dish that requires minimal effort.
Cheesy Goodness: The addition of cheddar cheese adds richness and flavor that takes this recipe over the top.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize the meatloaf with your favorite spices or additional ingredients for a personal touch.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your smoked meatloaf, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will help ensure your recipe turns out perfectly.

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Essential Tools and Equipment

Electric smoker
Mixing bowl
Meatloaf pan (optional)
Measuring cups and spoons
Cooking thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

Electric smoker: Provides that delicious smoky flavor that traditional baking can’t replicate.
Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all the ingredients evenly to ensure great flavor throughout.
Cooking thermometer: Guarantees that your meatloaf reaches the safe internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Ingredients

This Traeger Meatloaf is smoked on your electric smoker and full of flavor! It takes your favorite traditional meatloaf recipe with cheese and gives it an amazing smoky flavor!

For the Meat Mixture

1 pound ground beef
1 pound ground pork
8 strips bacon (cooked and chopped)
2 eggs (whisked)
½ cup Italian Panko bread crumbs
¼ cup milk
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ cup yellow onion (chopped)
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)

How to Make Smoked Meatloaf

Step 1: Preheat Your Electric Smoker

Preheat your electric smoker to 325 degrees Fahrenheit according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This temperature ensures even cooking while infusing smoke flavor into the meatloaf.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients:
1. Add ground beef, ground pork, chopped bacon, whisked eggs, Panko bread crumbs, milk, seasoned salt, garlic powder, chopped onion, black pepper, and shredded cheese.
2. Mix until fully combined but do not overmix as this can lead to a dense texture.

Step 3: Shape Into Loaf

Shape the mixture into a loaf form. If you prefer, you can use a meatloaf pan for uniformity.

Step 4: Smoke the Meatloaf

Place your formed meatloaf in the smoker:
1. Smoke until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. This process should take about 1 ½ hours. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once done smoking:
1. Remove from the smoker and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.
2. Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful smoked meatloaf!

How to Serve Smoked Meatloaf

Serving smoked meatloaf can elevate your dining experience. This flavorful dish pairs well with various sides and sauces that enhance its smoky goodness.

Classic Pairings

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting balance to the rich flavors of the meatloaf.
Green Beans: Freshly steamed green beans add a bright, crisp contrast, making for a well-rounded meal.

Sauces and Condiments

BBQ Sauce: Drizzle tangy BBQ sauce over slices for an extra layer of flavor that complements the smoke.
Ketchup: A classic accompaniment, ketchup adds sweetness that many love alongside meatloaf.

Salads

Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and rich dressing create a refreshing side that cuts through the heaviness of the meatloaf.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw brings a nice texture and a touch of acidity to balance the savory meat.

Bread Options

Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread can serve as a delightful vehicle for enjoying any leftover juices from the meatloaf.
Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any sauce, adding more comfort to your meal.

How to Perfect Smoked Meatloaf

To achieve the best smoked meatloaf, follow these tips for optimal flavor and texture.

Use Quality Meat: Opt for high-quality ground beef and pork. This will enhance the taste and juiciness of your meatloaf.
Don’t Skip the Bacon: Adding cooked bacon not only infuses flavor but also contributes moisture to keep your meatloaf tender.
Let it Rest: After smoking, allow the meatloaf to rest for at least five minutes. This helps retain its juices when slicing.
Check Temperature: Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safety and optimal doneness.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust seasonings or add herbs like thyme or parsley for more depth in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Smoked Meatloaf

Complementing your smoked meatloaf with delicious side dishes can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some tasty options:

Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds color and nutrition.
Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans pair beautifully with smoky flavors, enhancing each bite.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and crunch, making it a classic summer side.
Potato Salad: Cold potato salad offers a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with warm smoked meatloaf.
Macaroni and Cheese: Rich, cheesy macaroni is always a family favorite that complements any meaty dish.
Crispy Fries: Golden fries provide a comforting side option that everyone loves—perfect for dipping in sauce!
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: This light salad offers fresh ingredients like cucumbers and tomatoes, balancing heartiness with freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Smoked Meatloaf, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

Using the wrong meat ratio: A mix of ground beef and pork adds flavor and moisture. Stick to the 1:1 ratio for optimal taste.
Skipping the resting time: Allowing the meatloaf to rest after smoking helps retain its juices. Skip this step and you might end up with a dry loaf.
Not checking internal temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This keeps it safe and perfectly cooked.
Overmixing ingredients: Mixing too much can lead to a dense texture. Combine just until ingredients are integrated for a better mouthfeel.
Ignoring wood choice: The type of wood used in smoking affects flavor. Use mild woods like apple or cherry for a pleasant smoke without overpowering the meat.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Smoked Meatloaf

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Smoked Meatloaf

Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake until warm (about 20 minutes).
Microwave: Heat slices on medium power in short intervals until heated through.
Stovetop: Warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Smoked Meatloaf?

Smoked Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on traditional meatloaf, infused with smoky goodness from an electric smoker.

How long does it take to smoke meatloaf?

The cooking time is about 1 ½ hours at 325 degrees Fahrenheit until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Can I customize my Smoked Meatloaf?

Absolutely! You can add different spices, vegetables, or types of cheese according to your taste preferences.

What should I serve with Smoked Meatloaf?

Great sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.

Final Thoughts

This Smoked Meatloaf is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients for added flair. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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Smoked Meatloaf

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Author: Julia
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Smoked Meatloaf, a modern twist on the classic comfort food. This recipe combines ground beef and pork with crispy bacon and sharp cheddar cheese, all infused with a smoky essence from an electric smoker. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also guaranteed to impress your guests with its juicy texture and robust flavor. Serve it alongside mashed potatoes or green beans for a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef
1 pound ground pork
8 strips cooked bacon (chopped)
2 eggs (whisked)
½ cup Italian Panko bread crumbs
¼ cup milk
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ cup yellow onion (chopped)
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

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Instructions

Preheat your electric smoker to 325°F.
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, chopped bacon, whisked eggs, Panko bread crumbs, milk, seasoned salt, garlic powder, chopped onion, black pepper, and shredded cheese. Mix gently until well combined.
Shape the mixture into a loaf form and place it in the smoker.
Smoke for approximately 1½ hours until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Remove from the smoker and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 90 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Smoking
Cuisine: American