BBQ Meat loaf: Why You'll Love This Recipe
This BBQ Meat loaf is not your ordinary meatloaf. It’s infused with a smoky BBQ flavour that makes it stand out from the rest. The addition of diced bacon and a homemade BBQ sauce takes this dish to the next level. Plus, it’s ready to pop in the oven in just 15 minutes! How awesome is that? 🤩
The Secret to the Perfect BBQ Meat loaf
One of the keys to a great BBQ meat loaf is the right blend of ingredients. Here’s what makes this recipe shine:
- Beef Mince and Bacon: The combination of beef mince and diced bacon gives the meatloaf a rich and savoury flavour that’s simply irresistible.
- Fresh Vegetables: Using a food processor to blend the onion and carrot ensures they mix seamlessly into the meatloaf, adding moisture and sweetness without being chunky.
- Aromatic Spices: Smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder provide a depth of flavour that complements the BBQ sauce beautifully.
Tips for Making the Best BBQ Meat loaf
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices make a world of difference. If possible, opt for fresh thyme and oregano instead of dried.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can make the meatloaf dense and tough.
- Let it Rest: Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps it hold its shape when slicing and enhances the flavour.
Serving Suggestions
This BBQ Meat loaf pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some of my favourites:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes are a classic side that complements the rich flavour of the meatloaf.
- Steamed Veggies: Lightly steamed green beans, broccoli, or carrots add a nice contrast and keep the meal balanced.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob, slathered with butter, is a delightful addition that brings out the BBQ vibes.
Pairing Suggestions
When it comes to drinks, a robust red wine like Shiraz or Cabernet Sauvignon pairs well with the smoky flavours of the meatloaf. For beer lovers, a cold amber ale or a smoky porter would be fantastic choices. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a classic iced tea or a zesty lemonade will do the trick. 🍷🍺🍋
More Delicious Recipes to Try
If you loved this BBQ Meat loaf, be sure to check out these other delicious recipes:
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making and devouring this BBQ Meat loaf as much as I do. It’s a simple yet flavour-packed dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Don’t forget to take a picture and share with me on instagram @steph_cooks_stuff.
Feel free to browse more recipes and cooking tips. Happy eating!
BBQ Meat Loaf
- Total Time: 75
- Yield: 8 1x
Description
Hey, foodies! I’m super excited to share my quick and tasty 15 minute to the oven BBQ Meat loaf recipe that’s perfect for a cozy dinner! It’s a classic dish with a twist, and you won’t believe how easy it is. Let’s dive right in!🍴
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- In a food processor, combine the carrot, onion, bread crumbs, and eggs. Whizz until it forms a fine mixture, almost like a purée.
- Add the beef mince, diced bacon, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, tomato sauce, salt, and pepper to the food processor. Whizz again until everything is well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a loaf tin, pressing it down firmly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- While the meatloaf is baking, whisk together all the ingredients for the BBQ sauce in a bowl.
- After 30 minutes, pour the BBQ sauce over the meatloaf and return it to the oven for another 30 minutes.
- Once done, let your meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it to hold its shape.
Serve this mouthwatering BBQ Meatloaf with your favorite sides for a comforting meal that’s sure to impress! It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both delicious and easy to make.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 60
- Category: Recipes
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Australian
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture up to a day in advance. Just cover the loaf tin with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or when you’re planning a big meal in advance. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
If you’re looking to switch things up or need a gluten-free option, there are several great substitutes for breadcrumbs. Crushed gluten-free crackers, oats, or even cooked quinoa work well as alternatives. Just make sure to adjust the quantity slightly to achieve the right consistency for your meatloaf mixture.
To keep your meatloaf moist, be sure not to overmix the ingredients, as this can make it dense. Also, adding vegetables like onion and carrot helps retain moisture. Covering the meatloaf with foil during the first half of baking can also prevent it from drying out. Finally, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes after baking before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the loaf, keeping it moist and delicious.