Barbeque Meat Loaf
A smoky, tangy barbecue meatloaf with a rich tomato glaze, perfect for family dinners and gatherings that crave bold flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, bread crumbs, chopped onion, beaten egg, salt, pepper, and 1/2 cup of tomato sauce in a large bowl.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a 10 x 6 x 2 inch baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix remaining 1/2 cup tomato sauce, water, brown sugar, vinegar, hot sauce, prepared mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the meatloaf.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour 15 minutes, basting occasionally with the sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding chopped bell peppers or garlic to the meat mixture. If you're looking for a healthier option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also use whole wheat bread crumbs for added nutrition. Adjust the spice level by increasing the hot sauce or adding chili powder to taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the barbeque meat loaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes or coleslaw for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Best Beans Ever for a hearty dinner. For a lighter option, consider a simple side salad. Don’t forget to drizzle extra barbeque sauce on top for added flavor!
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover barbeque meat loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meat loaf and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbeque Meat Loaf contains roughly 154 calories, with 4g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1024mg per serving (45% of the Daily Value).
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 make this meat loaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat loaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just shape it into a loaf and cover it tightly. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.
What can I substitute for tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, you can use ketchup or crushed tomatoes as a substitute. Ketchup will add a sweeter flavor, while crushed tomatoes will provide a chunkier texture. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to achieve your desired taste.
How can I tell if the meat loaf is done?
The meat loaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Additionally, the juices should run clear when you cut into the loaf, indicating it's fully cooked.
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).