Meat Loaf Barbecue
A flavorful meatloaf glazed with a tangy barbecue sauce, combining savory beef, sweet and sour elements, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, beaten egg, salt, pepper, and tomato sauce and pack into a loaf pan.
- Combine water, brown sugar, vinegar, hot sauce, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce and pour over the loaf.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 40 minutes, basting occasionally with the sauce and pan juices.
- Let cool for 20 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider mixing in some grated zucchini or carrots. If you're out of breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats work well as a substitute. Use lean ground turkey for a lighter version. Adjust the hot sauce to match your preferred spice level. For a twist, try adding some chopped bell peppers or shredded cheese for extra flavor, which can elevate this meatloaf into a standout dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Easy Beef Stew With Rice for a comforting dinner spread. Consider adding a tangy coleslaw or roasted vegetables as sides for a delightful contrast. A drizzle of additional barbecue sauce on top before serving can enhance the flavor even more.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice and place in a microwave-safe dish, covering with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power until warmed through, or reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring it stays juicy and delicious.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf Barbecue contains roughly 893 calories, with 19g protein, 164g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2776mg per serving (121% 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 meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it into the loaf ahead of time. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, just remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce on hand, you can substitute it with ketchup or a mix of crushed tomatoes and a little sugar to mimic the sweetness. Alternatively, barbecue sauce could also work for an extra flavor boost, keeping the meatloaf moist while adding a smoky taste.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done cooking?
The best way to check if your meatloaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should read an internal temperature of 160°F. If you don't have a thermometer, you can cut into the center; the juices should run clear and the meat should no longer be pink. Let it rest for 20 minutes before slicing for easier serving.
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).