What makes smoked meatloaf different from traditional meatloaf?

Smoked meatloaf is cooked slowly in a smoker, which infuses the meat with a distinct smoky flavor unlike traditional oven-baked meatloaf. This method uses wood chips, such as hickory or oak, to add depth and complexity to the taste. The smoking process also helps keep the meatloaf moist while forming a flavorful crust on the outside. Typically, smoked meatloaf is cooked at a lower temperature around 225°F for several hours until it reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F.

How do you keep cheese inside smoked meatloaf from leaking out during cooking?

To prevent cheese from leaking, fully encase it within the meat mixture. First, form half of the meatloaf base, then add a layer of cheese on top. Carefully cover the cheese with the remaining meat mixture, pressing the edges to seal any gaps or holes. This helps the cheese stay molten inside the loaf while smoking and prevents it from leaking. Using firm cheese like pepper jack also helps maintain its shape during cooking.

Which wood types work best for smoking a meatloaf, and why?

Hickory and oak are among the best woods for smoking meatloaf because they provide a balanced, robust smoky flavor without overpowering the meat. Hickory offers a strong, slightly sweet aroma, enhancing the savory qualities, while oak provides a milder, earthy smoke perfect for longer cooking times. Avoid softwoods like pine, as they can produce unpleasant, resinous flavors.

What is the recommended internal temperature for safely cooked smoked meatloaf?

The safe internal temperature for smoked meatloaf is 165°F (74°C). This ensures any harmful bacteria in the ground meat are destroyed. Use a meat thermometer inserted into the center of the loaf to check. Because smoking is a low-and-slow cooking method, reaching this temperature generally takes about 3.5 to 4 hours at 225°F, depending on the loaf size.

Can I customize the seasoning in smoked meatloaf, and what are some good alternatives?

Yes, you can customize the seasoning to suit your taste. While a blend of beef seasoning or steak rub works well, simple alternatives include mixing salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in equal parts. Adding Worcestershire sauce and a splash of whiskey like Jack Daniels can also boost flavor and moisture. Feel free to experiment with smoked paprika or cayenne for additional warmth and complexity.

Smoked Meatloaf Recipe With Bold Rich Flavors To Try

Name: Smoked Meatloaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground beef with at least 85/15 fat content This forms the base, providing rich flavor and keeping the loaf juicy during smoking.; 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs They help bind the mixture without making it too dense, adding a light crunch.; 1/2 medium red onion, grated Adds a subtle sweetness and moisture, enhancing the overall taste profile.; 2 cloves minced garlic Brings a pungent, aromatic depth that pairs well with the smoky notes.; 2 eggs, lightly beaten Act as a binder to hold everything together and add extra moisture.; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Infuses umami and tang, boosting the savory elements.; 2 tablespoons whiskey Mixes into the meat for a bold, rich flavor that complements the smoke.; 2 tablespoons beef or steak seasoning (or substitute equal parts salt, pepper, and garlic powder) Seasons the meat perfectly, with options for easy swaps based on what you have on hand.; 1/4 cup milk Keeps the mixture tender and prevents it from drying out during the long smoke.; 6 ounces pepper jack cheese, cut into strips Creates a gooey, spicy surprise in the center, melting beautifully inside.; 1/2 cup ketchup Forms the base of the glaze, adding a sweet and tangy coating.; 1/3 cup brown sugar Provides caramelized sweetness that balances the heat and smoke.; 1/4 cup whiskey Amplifies the flavor with a spirited kick, tying into the meat mixture.; 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes Brings the spicy element that makes this smoked meatloaf stand out.

Description

🔥 Experience bold, smoky flavors with this juicy smoked meatloaf that’s infused with whiskey and pepper jack cheese.
🧀 Enjoy a rich, gooey cheese center surrounded by tender, flavorful meat for a perfect barbecue twist on classic comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds ground beef with at least 85/15 fat content This forms the base, providing rich flavor and keeping the loaf juicy during smoking.

1/2 cup panko bread crumbs They help bind the mixture without making it too dense, adding a light crunch.

1/2 medium red onion, grated Adds a subtle sweetness and moisture, enhancing the overall taste profile.

2 cloves minced garlic Brings a pungent, aromatic depth that pairs well with the smoky notes.

2 eggs, lightly beaten Act as a binder to hold everything together and add extra moisture.

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Infuses umami and tang, boosting the savory elements.

2 tablespoons whiskey Mixes into the meat for a bold, rich flavor that complements the smoke.

2 tablespoons beef or steak seasoning (or substitute equal parts salt, pepper, and garlic powder) Seasons the meat perfectly, with options for easy swaps based on what you have on hand.

1/4 cup milk Keeps the mixture tender and prevents it from drying out during the long smoke.

6 ounces pepper jack cheese, cut into strips Creates a gooey, spicy surprise in the center, melting beautifully inside.

1/2 cup ketchup Forms the base of the glaze, adding a sweet and tangy coating.

1/3 cup brown sugar Provides caramelized sweetness that balances the heat and smoke.

1/4 cup whiskey Amplifies the flavor with a spirited kick, tying into the meat mixture.

2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes Brings the spicy element that makes this smoked meatloaf stand out.

Instructions

1-First Step: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients Begin by collecting all the ingredients to make the process smooth. Grate the red onion and mince the garlic ahead of time for easy mixing. This step, known as mise en place, helps everything come together quickly and reduces stress during preparation.

2-Second Step: Mix the Meatloaf In a large bowl, gently combine the 2 pounds of ground beef, 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs, grated red onion, minced garlic, 2 lightly beaten eggs, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 2 tablespoons whiskey, 2 tablespoons beef seasoning, and 1/4 cup milk. Mix just until combined to avoid making the meat tough overmixing can lead to a dry texture, so keep it light.

3-Third Step: Shape the Loaf Take half of the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf on a grill basket or smoking pan. This allows smoke to circulate around the meat for even flavor. For those adapting for dietary needs, like using a leaner beef, be sure to add a bit more milk to maintain moisture.

4-Fourth Step: Add the Cheese Layer Layer the 6 ounces of pepper jack cheese strips on top of the first meat layer, leaving a 1-inch margin around the edges. Then, cover with the remaining meat mixture and press the edges firmly to seal. This prevents any cheese from leaking out, keeping that surprise intact during smoking.

5-Fifth Step: Prepare the Sauce In a separate bowl, mix 1/2 cup ketchup, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup whiskey, and 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes. Spread this sauce evenly over the top and sides of the shaped loaf. For variations in preferences, you could reduce the red pepper flakes for a milder version.

6-Sixth Step: Preheat and Smoke Preheat your smoker to 225 degrees F using hickory or oak wood for that optimal smoky flavor. Place the loaf in the smoker and let it cook for about 4 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Use a meat thermometer to check, as this ensures safety and the best texture for smoked meatloaf.

7-Final Step: Rest and Serve Once done, remove the smoked meatloaf from the smoker and let it rest for at least 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and the cheese to set, making it easier to slice. Serve it up with sides like veggies or potatoes for a complete meal that delights food enthusiasts and busy families alike. With about 15 minutes prep and 4 hours cook time, this totals around 4 hours and 15 minutes, fitting into tight schedules.

Notes

🍖 Avoid overmixing meat to maintain tenderness.
🔥 Use a grill basket or pan with holes to expose meatloaf to smoke.
🧀 Seal edges tightly to prevent cheese leakage and allow cheese to set after resting.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Category: Main Course
Method: Smoking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 652
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 566mg
Fat: 41g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 18g
Trans Fat: 2g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 36g
Cholesterol: 188mg

Keywords: Smoked meatloaf,Whiskey meatloaf,Pepper jack meatloaf,Barbecue meatloaf