Grilled BBQ Meatloaf Recipe

Cook Time: 60 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pounds ground beef
• 1 pounds ground pork
• 2 cups dry bread crumbs
• 1 cup finely chopped sweet onion (such as Vidalia)
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon dried tarragon
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• cup barbeque sauce
• cup ketchup

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your outdoor grill to medium heat and make sure to scrape the grates clean. Lightly spray them with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, bread crumbs, finely chopped onion, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, dried tarragon, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly until well combined.

Step 3: Divide the meat mixture in half. Shape each portion into a loaf, approximately 4 inches in diameter and 6 inches long.

Step 4: In a small bowl, mix together the barbeque sauce and ketchup until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Place each meatloaf directly onto the prepared grill grates. Using a spoon or brush, spread about 3 tablespoons of the BBQ sauce mixture over each meatloaf.

Step 6: Grill the meatloafs for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches at least 160F (73C). Make sure to check the temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked through.

Oven Directions:

Step 7: Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with greased aluminum foil.

Step 8: Shape the meat mixture into one large loaf (or divide it into two smaller loaves for a quicker baking time). Place the loaf into the prepared baking dish.

Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes. Afterward, remove from the oven, drain any excess fat, and brush the meatloaf with a layer of the BBQ sauce mixture.

Step 10: Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until fully cooked. An instant-read thermometer should read at least 160F (70C) when inserted into the center of the loaf.

Cook's Note: If the recipe seems too large for your household, you can easily split the meat mixture in half and freeze one portion for later. The ingredient amounts remain the same, but the cooking time will vary if using smaller portions.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	656
Total Fat	33g
Saturated Fat	12g
Cholesterol	176mg
Sodium	1158mg
Total Carbohydrate	42g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Total Sugars	14g
Protein	46g
Vitamin C	6mg
Calcium	115mg
Iron	9mg
Potassium	778mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. ** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

Description: This savory beef and pork meatloaf is topped with a sweet barbecue sauce and grilled to perfection, giving it a smoky flavor that's hard to beat. Perfect for BBQ season, but equally delicious year-round!

Origin Story

Meatloaf, a dish deeply rooted in American culinary tradition, has evolved over the years to include a variety of regional variations and cooking methods. The grilled BBQ version of meatloaf is a modern twist that emerged as grilling gained popularity in the mid-20th century. Traditionally, meatloaf was baked in an oven, but grilling provides a smoky depth of flavor that perfectly complements the savory meat mixture. The addition of barbecue sauce on top not only enhances the taste but also adds a sweet and tangy contrast to the meats richness. While it's hard to pinpoint exactly when this grilled version first appeared, it became a favorite at backyard cookouts, particularly in the Southern and Midwest regions of the United States.

Regional Variations

Across the United States, meatloaf recipes can vary significantly depending on regional preferences. In the South, for example, meatloaf is often seasoned with spices like paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne, while in the Northeast, the use of herbs like thyme and rosemary is more common. The grilled BBQ meatloaf, however, is particularly popular in the South and Midwest, where outdoor grilling is a favored cooking method. The BBQ sauce used for glazing may also vary; some prefer a tangy vinegar-based sauce, while others opt for a sweeter, tomato-based version. In some regions, people even add a dash of bourbon to the BBQ sauce for an extra depth of flavor.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Grilled BBQ meatloaf stands out from other meatloaf variations due to its preparation method and glaze. While classic meatloaf is baked in a loaf pan in the oven, this version is cooked directly on the grill, which imparts a subtle smoky flavor and crispy texture to the exterior. The addition of BBQ sauce as a topping differentiates it from traditional meatloaf, which is typically glazed with a combination of ketchup or tomato-based sauces. Additionally, grilling the meatloaf allows for a crisper, more caramelized crust, while the interior remains juicy and flavorful.

Where It's Served

Grilled BBQ meatloaf is a popular dish at casual gatherings such as family barbecues, picnics, and cookouts. Its often served with classic sides like mashed potatoes, baked beans, coleslaw, or grilled vegetables. This dish is especially favored during summer months when grilling is a favorite pastime. However, it can be enjoyed year-round, as it provides a comforting, hearty meal with the added bonus of the smoky flavor that only grilling can provide. It's also a great dish for meal prepping, as it reheats well and is filling, making it a staple in many American homes.

Interesting Facts

1. The origins of meatloaf can be traced back to the early 19th century in Europe, where it was known as "minced meat pie" or "meat pudding".

2. The practice of grilling meatloaf instead of baking it in the oven is a relatively recent development, stemming from the American barbecue culture.

3. Grilled BBQ meatloaf is an excellent way to use up leftover bread crumbs, as the recipe calls for them to bind the meat mixture.

4. While many people think of ground beef as the primary meat for meatloaf, this recipe uses a combination of ground beef and pork, which helps to keep the loaf moist and flavorful.

5. The combination of BBQ sauce and ketchup creates a balanced glaze that gives the meatloaf its sweet and tangy flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser at every meal.

FAQ about Grilled BBQ Meatloaf Recipe

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