Barbecued Meatloaf

Prep: 15 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: American

A smoky, flavorful meatloaf with tangy mustard, Worcestershire, and a hint of sweetness from brown sugar, perfect for hearty family dinners or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 2 lb. ground turkey
  • 1/4 tsp. pepper
  • 2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 Tbsp. prepared mustard
  • 1 Tbsp. vinegar
  • 1 cup diced onions
  • 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
  • 1 - 8 oz. can tomato sauce
  • 2 Tbsp. firmly packed brown sugar

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, diced onions, pepper, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, prepared mustard, vinegar, tomato sauce, and brown sugar.
  3. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
  4. Transfer the mixture into a greased loaf pan or shape into a loaf on a baking sheet.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For added moisture and flavor, consider mixing in 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs or oats, which can also help bind the meatloaf. If you're looking for a kick, try adding a bit of hot sauce or red pepper flakes. This meatloaf can be easily adapted with ground beef or chicken instead of turkey. To enhance the barbecue flavor, brush with additional barbecue sauce before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the barbecued meatloaf with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal. Pair it with classic sides like coleslaw or cornbread to complement the flavors. It also pairs beautifully with Healthy Macaroni Casserole, making for a comforting dinner. Don't forget to drizzle extra barbecue sauce on top for added flavor!

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a microwave-safe dish, covering it with a damp paper towel. Heat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Barbecued Meatloaf contains roughly 279 calories, with 4g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of iron (14% of the Daily Value).

279 kcal 14% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.8g 8% DV
Total Fat 6g 8% DV
Carbs 46.8g 17% DV
Fiber 1.4g 5% DV
Sugar 27.6g 55% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 319.3mg 14% DV
Potassium 382.4mg 8% DV
Cholesterol 1.7mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 4.3mcg
Vitamin C 2.6mg 3% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 71mg 5% DV
Iron 2.5mg 14% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze the meatloaf?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked or cooked meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, or bake it straight from frozen, adding about 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.

How can I tell when the meatloaf is done?

The best way to check if the meatloaf is done is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). You can also cut into the center to ensure there’s no pink and the juices run clear. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to help retain moisture.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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