Honey BBQ Meatloaf takes a classic comfort food and gives it a delicious twist with a sweet and smoky barbecue glaze. The combination of tender ground beef, flavorful seasonings, and a sticky honey BBQ glaze makes this meatloaf irresistible. It’s easy to make and perfect for weeknight dinners or a family gathering. Serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a complete, satisfying meal.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup grated onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Honey BBQ Glaze
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, grated onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
Step 3: Shape and Bake the Meatloaf
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide if not using a loaf pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Step 4: Prepare the Honey BBQ Glaze
- While the meatloaf is baking, whisk together the barbecue sauce, honey, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika in a small bowl.
Step 5: Glaze and Finish Baking
- After 30 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush the honey BBQ glaze generously over the top.
- Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
Step 6: Serve
- Slice the meatloaf and serve it warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Notes
- Ground Beef: Use ground beef with a moderate fat content (85/15) to ensure the meatloaf stays moist and flavorful.
- Breadcrumbs: Regular or panko breadcrumbs work well. You can also use crushed crackers if you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand.
- Glaze: For a thicker glaze, brush the meatloaf with half of the glaze halfway through baking, then apply another layer during the last 10 minutes.
Variations
Spicy Honey BBQ Meatloaf
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture for a spicy kick. You can also mix a bit of hot sauce into the glaze.
Turkey Honey BBQ Meatloaf
- Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version. Adjust the cooking time to ensure the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Bacon-Wrapped Honey BBQ Meatloaf
- Wrap the meatloaf in bacon before baking for an extra layer of smoky flavor. The bacon will also help keep the meatloaf moist as it cooks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. You can also prepare the glaze ahead of time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm slices in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Can I Freeze Meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Honey BBQ Meatloaf is a sweet and savory twist on a traditional comfort food that’s sure to please the whole family. With its tender texture, smoky glaze, and easy preparation, this meatloaf is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Serve it alongside your favorite sides, and enjoy every bite of this flavorful dish.
Happy cooking, and enjoy the sweet and smoky taste of this Honey BBQ Meatloaf!
