Lemon Barbecued Meat Loaf
A tangy and savory lemon barbecue meatloaf featuring bright lemon flavors complemented by a sweet and spicy glaze, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, bread crumbs, lemon juice, minced onion, egg, and seasoned salt until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into 6 individual loaves and place them in the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine catchup, brown sugar, dry mustard, allspice, and ground cloves to make the glaze.
- Remove the loaves from the oven and spread the glaze over each.
- Top each loaf with a thin lemon slice.
- Bake an additional 15 minutes or until cooked through.
- Serve hot with the lemon slices as garnishes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey instead of beef. Adjust the seasoned salt based on your preference, or use a low-sodium alternative. If you're short on time, store-bought breadcrumbs can save you some effort. Adding chopped bell peppers or celery to the meat mixture can enhance flavor and add moisture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lemon barbecued meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A fresh green salad with vinaigrette pairs nicely, balancing the richness of the loaf. Try it alongside cornbread for a comforting dinner inspired by American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, covering with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Barbecued Meat Loaf contains roughly 603 calories, with 12g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (26% of the Daily Value), protein (24% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1552mg per serving (67% 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 freeze the meatloaf before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the shaped loaves before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
What can I substitute for ketchup in the glaze?
If you don’t have ketchup, you can use barbecue sauce or a mix of tomato paste and a bit of vinegar for a similar tangy flavor. Adjust the sweetness by adding a little sugar or honey if needed.
How do I know when the meatloaf is cooked through?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) as measured by a meat thermometer. The juices should run clear when cut, and the loaf should be firm to the touch.
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).