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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. Veggie Boost: Mix in finely grated carrots or zucchini. It’s a sneaky way to add veggies and provides moisture to the meatloaf.
7. 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.

Smoked Meatloaf Recipe

Upgrade your dinner game with our Bacon-Infused Smoked Meatloaf. Melding classical flavors with a bacon twist, this isn’t just another meatloaf—it’s a statement dish for your table. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

• Ground Beef: 2 pounds
• Cooked Bacon: 1 cup, crumbled
• Eggs: 2
• Soft Panko Breadcrumbs: 1 cup
• Onions: 1 cup, finely chopped
• Tomato Paste: 1 tablespoon
• Garlic Powder: 2 teaspoons
• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
• Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon
• Barbecue Sauce: 1/2 cup (divided)

Instructions

• Preparation: Start by mixing the ground beef, crumbled bacon, eggs, onions, breadcrumbs, tomato paste, garlic powder, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the barbecue sauce in a large bowl. Ensure all ingredients are well-combined.
• Shaping: Once mixed, mold the mixture into a loaf shape.
• Smoking Time: Preheat your smoker to 250F. Place your meatloaf inside and let it smoke for 2 to 2.5 hours.
• Finishing Touch: After the initial smoking, glaze the meatloaf with the remaining barbecue sauce and smoke for an additional 10 minutes.
• Rest and Serve: Once done, let your meatloaf rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This ensures all the juices are locked in.

Ready to become the meatloaf maestro among your Pinterest friends? Pin the image below and let the ‘loaf love’ spread!

Ahead-of-Time Preparation:

If you’re a planner, you can mix the meatloaf ingredients and shape the loaf a day before. Store it in the fridge, covered. If you’re considering even further ahead, freeze the uncooked meatloaf. Just ensure you store it in a freezer-safe air-tight container and use it within three months.

Expert Tips for the Best Smoked Meatloaf:

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just enough to incorporate everything while combining the ingredients. Overmixing can make the meatloaf dense.
• Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is perfectly cooked.
• Direct Grate Cooking: Place your meatloaf directly on the smoker grates for an even smoky flavor.
• Resting is Key: Letting the meatloaf rest after smoking ensures juiciness and makes slicing easier.