Meatloaf has always been a staple in my household, but have you ever considered giving it a smoky makeover? By introducing it to the smoker and including the rich flavor of bacon, we’re taking this traditional dish to a new level. This isn’t just your typical meatloaf; it’s a culinary experience waiting to be explored.

This smoked meatloaf is made with a mixture of ground beef, breadcrumbs, aromatic onions, and a medley of spices; this meatloaf is anything but ordinary. Adding tomato paste lends a tangy depth, while Worcestershire sauce adds that umami kick. But the real star here is crumbled, cooked bacon that intertwines with the beef, ensuring every bite is a balanced blend of flavors.

Ingredients you’ll need

Before we plunge into the cooking method, let’s familiarize ourselves with the key ingredients in this dish:

Ground Beef: The basis of our meatloaf, providing a hearty base.

Cooked Bacon: Adding a smoky, decadent layer to the meatloaf’s profile.

Soft Panko Breadcrumbs: Giving our meatloaf structure and a delicate crunch.

Onions: Finely chopped, these add a touch of sweetness and texture.

Tomato Paste: For that tangy undertone that balances out the richness.

Garlic Powder, Salt, & Pepper: The basic seasonings elevate the flavors.

Worcestershire Sauce: A splash for that deep, savory note.

Barbecue Sauce: A dual-purpose ingredient used in the mixture and as a glaze.

The Magic Behind Smoked Meatloaf:

Bacon’s Richness: Incorporating cooked bacon adds a smoky depth and a delightful texture that complements the meatloaf.

Simple Ingredients, Grand Result: Ground beef, breadcrumbs, onions, and our special ingredient – bacon, come together to form a dish that’s both familiar and novel.

A Smoker’s Touch: The slow cooking in a smoker infuses the meatloaf with a distinctive flavor profile that’s hard to achieve in an oven.

A Dish for All Occasions: Perfect for a family dinner, a potluck, or even a holiday occasion, this smoked meatloaf is versatile and always a hit.

Variations to Spice Things Up:

Meat Medley: While beef is a traditional choice, consider blending it with ground lamb or pork for a richer flavor profile. Ground turkey or chicken can also be used for a leaner version.
Herb Infusion: Fresh basil or oregano can be added to the mix for a Mediterranean take. Consider adding a touch of ground cumin or coriander for a more aromatic flavor.
Sweet and Spicy: Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to the mix for a hint of sweetness. Consider mixing in some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick.
Cheesy Core: Stuff the center of your meatloaf with blue cheese or feta cubes. The cheese will melt as it smokes, giving you a gooey, flavorful center.
Bacon Wrap: Instead of adding bacon bits, why not wrap the meatloaf in a bacon weave? This not only adds flavor but also keeps the meatloaf moist.
Veggie Boost: Mix in finely grated carrots or zucchini. It’s a sneaky way to add veggies and provides moisture to the meatloaf.
Global Twist: For an Asian-inspired version, add some soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil to the mixture. Top with teriyaki glaze instead of BBQ sauce.

Perfect Pairings:

1. Potato Delights:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes mashed with roasted garlic cloves.
Sweet Potato Fries: A sweet and savory side baked to perfection.

2. Veggies:

Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: Roasted Brussels sprouts tossed with crispy bacon bits.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Tender carrots glazed with honey and butter.
Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Fresh asparagus spears grilled and finished with a drizzle of lemon zest.

3. Breads:

Herb Focaccia: A soft, olive oil-rich bread aromatized with rosemary and thyme.
Cornbread Muffins: Sweet and savory muffins that pair flawlessly with the smokiness of the meatloaf.

4. Salads:

Classic Caesar Salad: Romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing.
Apple Walnut Salad: Mixed greens with sliced apples, walnuts, and a balsamic vinaigrette.

5. Drinks:

Craft Beers: Opt for a smoky porter or a robust stout to complement the tastes.
Wines: A full-bodied red wine like a Shiraz or a Malbec pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the meatloaf.