Easy Traeger Smoked Meatloaf

Delicious Traeger Pellet Grill Smoked Meatloaf Recipe

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If you’re looking for an easy dinner that packs a punch of flavor, look no further than this Traeger smoked meatloaf recipe.

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Below, I also give you the optional recipe for bacon-wrapped smoked meatloaf!

Utilizing the magic of a pellet grill or electric smoker, this dish transforms humble ground beef into a savory delight that will have your family coming back for seconds. Perfect for a summer meal or a quick weeknight recipe, this meatloaf is simple to prepare and even easier to enjoy.

This recipe is all about convenience without sacrificing taste.

You can get it on the grill in no time, making it a go-to for busy evenings when you want a satisfying family dinner. With the added smoky flavor from the Traeger, you’ll elevate your meatloaf to a whole new level that will impress everyone at the table.

Don’t have a smoker yet?

In a recent article, I take a look at 15 of the best budget smoker grills under $400. There’s bound to be a great one well within your budget!

Just click that link to read it on my site.

Crafting the Perfect Traeger Smoked Meatloaf

When it comes to easy dinners that deliver an abundance of flavor, the Traeger smoked meatloaf stands out as a top choice. Utilizing a pellet grill or electric smoker makes the process simple and straightforward. This dish transforms basic ground beef into a savory centerpiece that family members will eagerly return for, especially during those warm summer evenings.

Not only is this recipe quick to prepare, but it also fits seamlessly into busy weeknight routines.

The infusion of smoky goodness from the Traeger elevates the meatloaf, turning a traditional recipe into something truly special. Whether it’s a casual outdoor gathering or a swift family meal, this smoked meatloaf promises satisfaction.

Why Choose Smoked Meatloaf?

Choosing smoked meatloaf means opting for a dish that is both juicy and packed with flavor.

The combination of seasoned ground beef and breadcrumbs creates a rich texture, while aromatic herbs add personality to every bite. The gentle smokiness from the Traeger is not just an enhancement; it brings depth and complexity, making this meatloaf a remarkable option for any occasion.

Moreover, this smoked variant is perfect for summer meals; it pairs brilliantly with vibrant grilled vegetables, allowing for a colorful and appealing presentation. The glossy BBQ sauce glaze on top of the meatloaf adds an irresistible touch, inviting everyone to dig in.

Ingredients That Shine

The foundation of a great smoked meatloaf lies in its ingredients.

This recipe calls for ground beef, which serves as the base, complemented by breadcrumbs that help bind everything together. A splash of milk and eggs ensures moisture, while chopped onions and ketchup deliver sweetness and richness.

Seasonings such as salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning round out the flavor profile, making each slice memorable. Topping it all off with BBQ sauce not only enhances taste but also creates an appealing glaze that glistens in the summer sun.

Cooking on the Traeger

Cooking on the Traeger grill is a straightforward process. Start by preheating the grill to the right temperature, allowing it to reach 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the meatloaf cooks evenly and absorbs that signature smoky flavor.

Shaping the mixture into a loaf and placing it onto parchment paper or directly on the grill grates is the next step. A generous brush of BBQ sauce on the top not only adds flavor but also contributes to the eye-catching appearance once it’s done.

Serving Suggestions for Summer Meals

After the meatloaf has smoked for about an hour and reached the desired internal temperature, it’s ready to be served. Allowing it to rest for a brief period is important; this step allows juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice remains moist and flavorful.

Pairing the meatloaf with grilled summer vegetables, such as corn and bell peppers, adds a refreshing element. The contrast of the vibrant colors and flavors enhances the overall dining experience, making it not just a meal but a feast for the senses.

But you might also like the ease of making dishes in the Crock-Pot!

In that case, check out my 39 easy slow cooker summer recipes! I give you tons of great stuff to go alongside that delicious pellet grill meatloaf.

Just click that link to read it on my site.

Enjoying the Experience

This Traeger smoked meatloaf recipe is more than just a dish; it’s an experience that brings families together. With its ease of preparation and the comfort of a hearty meal, it becomes a staple for family dinners and summer get-togethers alike.

Your guests will appreciate the delicious combination of flavors, and the outdoor setting will only enhance the enjoyment. So gather around the table, share stories, and enjoy the delightful simplicity of this smoked meatloaf creation.

Easy Traeger Smoked Meatloaf

This smoked meatloaf is a juicy and flavorful dish made from seasoned ground beef, combined with breadcrumbs and aromatic herbs. The gentle smokiness from the Traeger adds depth and richness, making this meatloaf a standout choice for any meal.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Prep the grill: Preheat the Traeger grill to 350°F (175°C) and prepare for smoking.
  2. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, ketchup, eggs, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.
  3. Shape the meatloaf: Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on a piece of parchment paper or directly on the grill grates.
  4. Baste the top: Brush the top of the meatloaf with BBQ sauce (or ketchup)
  5. Cook the meatloaf: Smoke the meatloaf for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
  6. Let Rest: Remove from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cook and Prep Times

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Nutrition Information

  • Servings: 6 slices
  • Calories: 320kcal
  • Fat: 20g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g

Bacon-Wrapped Traeger Smoked Meatloaf

This bacon-wrapped smoked meatloaf combines the juicy tenderness of classic meatloaf with the smoky, savory crunch of crispy bacon. Cooked low and slow on a Traeger grill, this version takes the comforting flavors of traditional meatloaf to the next level.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 10–12 slices of bacon
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Grill: Preheat your Traeger grill to 350°F (175°C) and prepare for smoking with your preferred wood pellets.
  2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, ketchup, eggs, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix just until combined—do not overwork the meat.
  3. Shape the Loaf: On a sheet of parchment paper or foil, form the mixture into a loaf about 8 inches long and 4 inches wide.
  4. Wrap in Bacon: Lay the bacon strips across the top of the loaf, tucking the ends underneath the meat. Slightly overlap each strip to ensure even coverage.
  5. Baste the Top: Brush half the BBQ sauce evenly over the bacon-wrapped loaf.
  6. Smoke the Meatloaf: Transfer the loaf (with parchment or foil) to the Traeger grates. Close the lid and smoke for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
  7. Add More Sauce: During the last 10 minutes of cooking, brush the remaining BBQ sauce over the top and let it caramelize slightly.
  8. Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes. Slice and serve warm with your favorite sides.

Cook and Prep Times

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Nutrition Information

  • Servings: 6 slices
  • Calories: 380kcal
  • Fat: 26g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g

New to Traeger?

My first pellet grill was a Traeger Ironwood 650. So in my ultimate guide to using Traeger pellet grills, I walk you through the complete set up and use of your Traeger. I cover EVERYTHING you need to know for setup, use, and ongoing maintenance.

Just click that link to read it on my site.

Jeff Campbell
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