Tag: meatloaf

Spicy Hot Meat Loaf using a Grill

I’m a big lover of cooking outside on a grill. Gas or charcoal, I like to mix it up. Grilling outside is a great substitute for cooking inside on or in an oven, plus you just can’t beat the experience and the added flavor. I made this spicy hot meat loaf using a grill and it came out fantastic. As a bonus, it picked up a light smokiness, which went great along with the spicy meat mixture that was packed with flavors, some traditionally found in a meatloaf and some not.

Spicy Hot Meat Loaf using a Grill

The Meatloaf Of Dreams

I cooked my spicy hot meat loaf using a grill in a large cast iron skillet. I could’ve used a large aluminum disposable pan. But, the skillet gets hotter and adds a nice crunchy layer around the edges and bottom of the meat loaf. That added texture made a noticeable, welcome difference. It kinda reminded me of the old Pizza Hut deep pan pizzas. You know the ones. They cooked them in iron skillets with a little oil. That oil helped get the bottoms and sides of the crust a little bit crunchy. That was the best part of the pizza!

Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron 3 Skillet Bundle. 12 inches and 10.25 inches with 8 inch Set of 3 Cast Iron Frying Pans
Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron 3 Skillet Bundle. 12 inches and 10.25 inches with 8 inch Set of 3 Cast Iron Frying Pans

You can of course cook this in a large disposable pan instead.

Spicy Hot Meat Loaf using a Grill
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5 from 1 vote

Spicy Hot Meat Loaf using a Grill

Delicious grilled meatloaf with a nice kick.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword grilled, meatloaf
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 272kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Old Dave

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fire up your grill for indirect cooking at 350 F.
  • Place all but the chili sauce into a large bowl. Using your hands, combine well but try to not over-work the mixture.
  • Transfer the mixture to a disposable pan or large cast-iron skillet and shape as desired. Make sure you keep the same thickness throughout the loaf.
  • Using the handle end of a wooden spoon (or your finger), make indentations in several locations over the top of the loaf.
  • Pour chili sauce over top of the loaf, covering it evenly and filling the indentations.
  • Transfer to the grill and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165 F as checked in several locations.
  • Remove and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Use regular sausage and substitute French fried onions for the jalapenos for a non-spicy version.

Nutrition

Calories: 272kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 17g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 84mg | Sodium: 637mg | Potassium: 444mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 647IU | Vitamin C: 27mg | Calcium: 31mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Weber 6493 21-Inch 3-Sided Grill Brush
Weber 6493 21-Inch 3-Sided Grill Brush

Smoked Italian Meatloaf

Smoked meatloaf ends up on our dinner rotation with some regularity. Our meatloaf usually consists of a mixture of meat, spices, vegetables and some sort of binder to make it all come together. When I saw this idea for a smoked Italian meatloaf I was all over it in a heartbeat. It’s a combination of what I consider a fairly traditional meat mixture infused with Italian flavors, but then comes the tasty cool part. It’s stuffed with prosciutto, arugula, and provolone cheese! Mama mia!

Smoked Italian Meatloaf

The roll…

After you’ve combined the ingredients for the meat mixture, spread it out and topped it, you have a decision to make. Do you roll it up along the long axis, giving you a long loaf that produces a good number of smaller slices, or do you roll it along the short side, giving you a large loaf that produces super-big pieces and more toppings in every bite? Decisions, decisions.

I went with the long loaf and was very happy. But I can see how the short thicker loaf would have the advantage of giving your more toppings since there’ll be more layers. No matter which way you go, this is one fantastic meatloaf packed with Italian-inspired flavors.

Smoked Italian MeatloafSealing…

Make sure you seal up any seams before putting the meatloaf onto your smoker. And be careful moving the loaf to your smoker. To make things easier I transferred the assembled loaf onto a disposable grill topper while still in the kitchen. I just had to roll the loaf off of my cutting board and onto the topper. No risk of the loaf rolling off the smoker or falling apart.

Smoked Italian Meatloaf

For a wonderful topping after you’ve sliced the loaf, try my smoked provolone cheese sauce. Like a little kick to your meatloaf? Smoked habanero meatloaf is the thing for you.

Pecan Wood Chunks 4lb
Pecan Wood Chunks 4lb
Smoked Italian Meatloaf
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Smoked Italian Meatloaf

When I saw this idea for a smoked Italian meatloaf I was all over it in a heartbeat. It’s a combination of what I consider a fairly traditional meat mixture infused with Italian flavors, but then comes the tasty cool part. It’s stuffed with prosciutto, arugula, and provolone cheese! Mama mia!
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword meatloaf, smoked
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 793kcal

Ingredients

For the meat mixture

For the stuffing

  • 2 handfuls arugula rinsed, patted dry
  • 8 slices prosciutto
  • 8 slices provolone cheese

For the glaze

Instructions

  • Fire up your smoker for 275 F. Use a lighter wood such as a fruit wood.

For the meat mixture

  • Place all ingredients into a large bowl and mix well.
  • Line a 9″ x 13″ 1″ deep pan with foil. Make sure the foil extends over the sides of the pan by at least 1″.
  • Add the meat mixture to the pan and flatten it out to fill the pan, making sure the meat is the same thickness throughout. I found just using the palms of my hands to be the easiest way to do this.

For the stuffing

  • Later the arugula, prosciutto and provolone cheese on top of the meat, leaving a 1″ border around the edges.
  • To roll up, start along the long end (or short end if you want a thicker loaf) and start to foll about 1″ of the meat over onto itself. Keep going, back and forth, rolling as you go.
  • Seal the ends and the seam. You don’t want the contents to escape.
  • Transfer to the smoker and smoke for 2 hours or until the internal temperature of the loaf measures 150 F in several places.
  • Combine the glaze ingredients and brush over the top of the loaf.
  • Smoke another 30 minutes.
  • Remove and let rest for 45 minutes. If you don’t let it rest long enough the cheese will ooze out when you slice it.
  • Slice and serve.

Notes

Great served on bread or buns as a sandwich.

Nutrition

Calories: 793kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 47g | Fat: 63g | Saturated Fat: 25g | Trans Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 207mg | Sodium: 958mg | Potassium: 704mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 382IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 285mg | Iron: 5mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker, 12'' Smoker Tube for Pellet Grill - Hot or Cold Smoker Accessories for Electric Gas Charcoal Grilling, Premium Stainless Steel Portable Barbecue Smoking Tube, Bonus Brush
Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker, 12” Smoker Tube for Pellet Grill – Hot or Cold Smoker Accessories for Electric Gas Charcoal Grilling, Premium Stainless Steel Portable Barbecue Smoking Tube, Bonus Brush

Smoked Habanero Meatloaf

This smoked habanero meatloaf is by far my favorite. The meat comes out tender, with a nice smoky flavor (though you can make it in the oven and still have a fantastic dish). And of course, there’s a kick – a big kick from BBQ sauce mixed with habanero salsa and mixed into the meat and used as a glaze.

Smoked Habanero Meatloaf

The Perfect Sandwiches

The leftovers of this smoked habanero meatloaf are just as good as the day you make it. Maybe even a little bit better. It is perfect for sandwiches, which we made the next day. We just topped toasted French bread with a slab of warmed meatloaf followed by mayonnaise and red onion. The onion and bread add a nice crunch to the tender meatloaf. I can’t have a sandwich without mayonnaise, so mine definitely got an extra helping of it on top.

Smoked Habanero Meatloaf Sandwiches

Go Light On The Smoke

I prefer to use fruit or nut woods when I smoke unless I want a heavier smoke flavor. Pecan, apple or cherry are my favorites. I used apple wood chunks for this meatloaf.

Pecan Wood Chunks 4lb
Pecan Wood Chunks 4lb

I smoked the meatloaf on my Weber Smokey Mountain smoker. For a great side dish I made my crispy smoked smashed potatoes.

Smoked Habanero Meatloaf
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5 from 1 vote

Smoked Habanero Meatloaf

This smoked habanero meatloaf is by far my favorite. The meat comes out tender, with a nice smokey flavor (though you can make it in the oven and still have a fantastic dish).
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword meatloaf, smoked, spicy
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 445kcal
Author Mike

Ingredients

Instructions

For the smoker

  • Fire up your smoker for cooking at 225 – 250 F with a light wood, such as apple.

For the oven

  • Preheat oven to 450 F.

Assembly

  • Place the onion, celery and green pepper into a blender. Pulse until chopped, but not quite pureed. Squeeze out any excess moisture. It is important to get as much moisture out as you can.
  • Place beef and pork into a large bowl. Add onion mixture.
  • Whisk egg with milk and add to beef mixture, along with the bread crumbs and steak seasoning.
  • In a separate bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, salsa, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour half of the sauce onto the meat mixture and combine all ingredients well. Reserve the remaining sauce.
  • Spray a 9×13 aluminum (or glass if using the oven) pan with non-stick spray.
  • Add the beef/pork mixture and form into a roll. Spoon remaining sauce over top.
  • If cooking in the oven, bake 45-60 minutes or until center is done. You may want to drain some of the accumulating fat before serving.
  • If cooking in the smoker, poke a few holes along the edges of the aluminum pan so that any accumulating fat drips out. Smoke 2-3 hours or until the center is done.
  • Let meatloaf rest for 10 minutes and then slice into thick pieces.

Notes

Great served on Texas toast or hamburger buns as sandwiches.

Nutrition

Calories: 445kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 104mg | Sodium: 692mg | Potassium: 606mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 16g | Vitamin A: 326IU | Vitamin C: 16mg | Calcium: 90mg | Iron: 3mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker, 12'' Smoker Tube for Pellet Grill - Hot or Cold Smoker Accessories for Electric Gas Charcoal Grilling, Premium Stainless Steel Portable Barbecue Smoking Tube, Bonus Brush
Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker, 12” Smoker Tube for Pellet Grill – Hot or Cold Smoker Accessories for Electric Gas Charcoal Grilling, Premium Stainless Steel Portable Barbecue Smoking Tube, Bonus Brush

Pepper Jack Meatloaf

Now, truth be told, if I can, I’m going to smoke my meatloaf. Now, having said all that, I was all over this cheesy pepper jack meatloaf recipe when I came across it. I figured how can it be bad? And it wasn’t. At all. It reminded me of a Juicy Lucy hamburger in ways. There’s nothing but flavor in bite after bite. Oh, and my meatloaf favorite: chunky vegetables. If a meatloaf is going to have veggies in it, I want to taste them, see them and get some crunch from them.

Pepper Jack Meat Loaf

The Best Meatloaf Sandwiches

I really liked the celery in this Pepper Jack meatloaf too. It added a nice crunchy contrast to the meat and the velvety cheese. The leftovers also made for fantastic meatloaf sandwiches. I just slice the meat loaf thick, pile it on thick Texas toast, and squirt on a bit of ketchup.

Chicago Metallic Non-Stick 2-Piece Healthy Meatloaf Set, Grey
Chicago Metallic Non-Stick 2-Piece Healthy Meatloaf Set, Grey

Also try my BBQ meatloaf sandwiches!

Pepper Jack Meat Loaf
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4 from 1 vote

Pepper Jack Meatloaf

I was all over this cheesy pepper jack meatloaf recipe when I came across. It's like a Juicy Lucy burger but in meatloaf form.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword cheese, meatloaf
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings 4 -6
Calories 633kcal
Author Mike

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400 F.
  • Spray a loaf pan or baking dish with non-stick spray.
  • Combine the beef, celery, onion, crackers, and eggs. Mix well. Get in there with your hands and work it!
  • Place half of the meat into the pan. If you’re using a baking dish, form the meat into a loaf.
  • Sprinkle the cheese over the meat.
  • Add the remaining meat on top and pinch down along the sides to seal the cheese inside.
  • Spread ketchup over the top of the meat and sprinkle with chili powder, salt and pepper.
  • Cover the pan with lose-fitting foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  • Remove foil and increase oven temperature to 425 F.
  • Let bake another 20 minutes or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf is 160 F.
  • Remove from oven and let rest 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Great on thick bread and served as sandwiches, too!

Nutrition

Calories: 633kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 38g | Fat: 44g | Saturated Fat: 21g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 213mg | Sodium: 747mg | Potassium: 553mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 763IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 475mg | Iron: 4mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Mini Habanero Meatloaves on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Note: This recipe was developed using the Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Fryer. If you are cooking using the Char-Broil Smoker-Roaster Grill you should cook with the lid open and the temperature set to High. You might also need to adjust the cooking time.

Since getting my Char-Broil Big Easy I have been going back and remaking some of my favorite dishes that I usually make on my smoker. The Big Easy cooks at a high temperature. Much higher than you would normally run a smoker so you have to adjust the cooking times. Of course, but the rest is pretty straightforward and worry-free.

Mini Habanero Meatloaves on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Fast And Delicious

These crazy-good mini habanero meatloaves cooked on the Char-Broil Big Easy cook in almost no time at all, which is a good thing because you’ll want to get to eating them as soon as possible. So there’s no waiting 2-3 hours for them to cook on a smoker for these little beauties. Tender, juicy meat that packs a punch. No, they are not your grandma’s meatloaves. Well, I guess they could be if your grandma likes the heat of habanero peppers.

The key to these great mini habanero meatloaves is the onion, celery and bell pepper mixture. You must make sure you get all the liquid out of the vegetables after they have been blended. Your efforts will be well rewarded with a fantastic tasting meatloaf that you’ll want to make again and again.

Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket
Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket

Love your Big Easy as much I love mine? Check out my Big Easy Add-Ons page and my free Big Easy eCookbook!

It’s always a good idea to keep a few spare grease trays on hand for your Char-Broil Big Easy.

Char-Broil 2425514W12 Big Easy Grease Tray, Silver- 5 pack
Char-Broil 2425514W12 Big Easy Grease Tray, Silver- 5 pack
Mini Habanero Meatloaves on the Char-Broil Big Easy
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Mini Habanero Meatloaves on the Char-Broil Big Easy

These crazy-good mini habanero meatloaves cooked on the Char-Broil Big Easy cook in almost no time at all, which is a good thing because you’ll want to get to eating them as soon as possible. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword Big Easy, Char-Broil, meatloaf, spicy
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 8 servings
Calories 445kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fire up your Big Easy.
  • Place the onion, celery and green pepper into a blender. Pulse until chopped, but not quite pureed. Squeeze out any excess moisture. It is important to get as much moisture out as you can. I've found that the easiest way to do this is to place the vegetable mixture in a cheesecloth, wrap it up, then wring it like a wet towel. You'll be amazed at how much liquid will be released.
  • Place beef and pork into a large bowl. Add onion mixture.
  • Whisk egg with milk and add to beef mixture, along with the bread crumbs and steak seasoning.
  • In a separate bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, salsa, and Worcestershire sauce.
  • Pour half of the sauce onto the meat mixture and combine all ingredients well.
  • Reserve the remaining sauce.
  • Divide beef mixture into 4 pans.
  • Spoon remaining sauce over top.
  • Place pans in the Big Easy basket and lower into the cooker.
  • Cook for about 45 minutes or until the center of the loaves reaches 165 F.
  • Let meatloaf rest for 10 minutes then serve.

Notes

You’ll need a Big Easy Bunk Bed basket if cooking all 4 pans at once, otherwise you can only cook two at a time. For the pans, I used disposable mini loaf pans, which measure 6.1″ long x 3.8″ wide, and are 2″ tall.

Nutrition

Calories: 445kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 104mg | Sodium: 692mg | Potassium: 606mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 16g | Vitamin A: 326IU | Vitamin C: 16mg | Calcium: 90mg | Iron: 3mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket
Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket

Mexican Meatloaf

I love meatloaf, and I’m not afraid to make it a little different than what one might consider a traditional meatloaf (though I love that too. Gimme plenty of potatoes and carrots too!). This Mexican meatloaf takes meatloaf to a new spicy, flavor-packed place. There’s absolutely nothing boring about it, that’s for sure, from the tender moist meat mixture, packed with vegetables, to the spicy smoky tomato salsa topping. Is it just as great the next day? Oh, it’s even better!

Mexican Meatloaf

No Mushy Meatloaf!

I have a little rule about my meatloaf. I like to keep my vegetables cut a big bigger than most. They don’t need to be cooked until mushy. They need to be a little crunchy, but not a lot crunchy. I don’t want to the vegetables to get lost in the this fantastic Mexican meatloaf meatiness.

I love chipotles in adobo sauce. They aren’t too particularly hot, but the smokiness adds a great flavor to just about any dish.

La Costena Chipotle Peppers 7oz.
La Costena Chipotle Peppers 7oz.

Also try my delicious barbecue meatloaf.

Mexican Meatloaf
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4 from 1 vote

Mexican Meatloaf

This Mexican meatloaf takes meatloaf to a new spicy, flavor-packed place. There’s absolutely nothing boring about it, that’s for sure, from the tender moist meat mixture, packed with vegetables, to the spicy smoky tomato salsa topping. Is it just as great the next day? Oh, it’s even better!
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword meatloaf, Mexican
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 680kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Marcela Valladolid

Ingredients

For the meatloaf

For the salsa

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375 F.
  • Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the onion, carrots and celery and cook until just starting to soften, 8-10 minutes.
  • Add the garlic and cook another 1 minute.
  • Remove from heat and let cool.
  • Transfer the vegetables to a large bowl.
  • Add the ground beef, chorizo and the roasted poblano.
  • In a separate bowl combine the salt, pepper, cayenne, ketchup, and sour cream.
  • Add mix to the meat mixture.
  • Add bread crumbs and mix everything together. Thoroughly. Using your hands. Don't be shy.
  • Spray x 9″ x 13″ pan with non-stick spray.
  • Add meat and form into a loaf.
  • Place into the oven and bake until the meat reaches 165 F, 60-90 minuets.
  • Remove from the oven and let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
  • Serve topped with the salsa from below.

For the salsa

  • Add the canned tomatoes, onion, garlic, and serrano peppers to a blender and pulse until chunky.
  • Transfer to a skillet over medium heat and add the brown sugar, chipotle peppers and adobo sauce and mustard.
  • Simmer until thick then season with salt.

Notes

You can substitute your favorite salsa for the homemade version.

Nutrition

Calories: 680kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 34g | Fat: 43g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 205mg | Sodium: 1196mg | Potassium: 643mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 21g | Vitamin A: 3558IU | Vitamin C: 30mg | Calcium: 114mg | Iron: 4mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Jalapeno Cheddar Meatloaf

Nothing beats meatloaf when it comes to a quick, easy, delicious dinner dish. Perfect on a cold night. And who doesn’t love the leftovers? Meatloaf sandwiches are one of my all-time favorites! But, no need to have boring meatloaf. Chewy? Ew. Dry? Ew-ier. Boring? No! This jalapeno cheddar meatloaf is what meatloaf is supposed to be. Crazy moist. Lightly spicy. And oh, so tender. I’ll take two slices (but don’t tell anyone)!

Jalapeno Cheddar Meatloaf

Cheesy Greatness

I used cheddar in my jalapeno cheddar meatloaf. I know, Mr. Obvious, right? But you don’t have to go with cheddar. Pepper jack is fantastic, too. Or use a Mexican blend. Any good melting cheese will work.

Want more heat? Use a habanero or serrano pepper instead. Want less? Bell pepper or poblano peppers are a great substitute.

I highly recommend that you shred or grate your cheese at home. Don’t buy the pre-shredded or pre-grated stuff. It has stuff added to it to keep it from sticking together. That ‘stuff’ affects how the cheese melts. Shred it yourself and use the good stuff.

Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts
Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Rotary Grater Slicer for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts

Also try my copycat Cracker Barrel meatloaf.

Jalapeno Cheddar Meatloaf
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3.50 from 2 votes

Jalapeno Cheddar Meatloaf

Deliciously moist with a nice spicy kick!
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword meatloaf, spicy
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 312kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

For the meatloaf

  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • ¼ cup onion chopped
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 ounces sharp cheddar cheese grated
  • 1 medium jalapeno seeded, diced
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

For the topping

Instructions

For the topping

  • In a small bowl, combine ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard.

For the meatloaf

  • Preheat oven to 350 F.
  • Spray a loaf pan or baking dish with non-stick spray.
  • Place the ground beef in a large bowl.
  • Add the remaining meatloaf ingredients.
  • Using your hands, combine all ingredients but don't over-work the mixture.
  • Transfer to the loaf pan and form into a loaf.
  • Pour the topping over the loaf and spread out evenly.
  • Bake for 1 hour and 10 minutes. Check the internal temperature. The loaf is done once it reaches 160 F. Bake longer if needed.
  • Remove from the oven and let rest for 15 minutes.
  • Drain any excess fat.
  • Using a spoon, spread sauce mixture over top of meatloaf.
  • Slice and serve.

Notes

Great as sandwiches, too!

Nutrition

Calories: 312kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 114mg | Sodium: 534mg | Potassium: 308mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 199IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 94mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Easy Creole Meatloaf

There’s one rule I have about meatloaf: the veggies have to be chunky. I want some crunch to offset what is essentially a large brick-of-meat. Nothing wrong with a brick of meat, but put some nice chunky vegetables in it. This easy Creole meatloaf hit the spot and it definitely did not break my meatloaf rule. Chunky vegetables everywhere, in every bite. Great flavor. Moist. And just a hint of spiciness.

Easy Creole Meatloaf

Its Chunky. As In Good-N-Chunky.

Now, I will say that leftover super chunky easy Creole meatloaf does make for a pretty messy sandwich. But then, who really sits around dreaming of a nice, neat leftover meatloaf sandwich? Not me. It is not something to be ashamed of if you have to go open-faced with your meatloaf sandwich.

Grab a meatloaf pan, some ingredients, and get to meatloafing!

Chicago Metallic Non-Stick 2-Piece Healthy Meatloaf Set, Grey
Chicago Metallic Non-Stick 2-Piece Healthy Meatloaf Set, Grey

Also try my Cajun meatloaf and my copycat of the meatloaf from Cracker Barrel.

Easy Creole Meatloaf
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5 from 1 vote

Easy Creole Meatloaf

his easy Creole meatloaf hit the spot and it definitely did not break my meatloaf rule. Great flavor. Moist. And just a hint of spiciness.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword meatloaf
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 353kcal
Author Mike

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350 F.
  • Spray a 9″ x 13″ baking dish with non-stick spray.
  • Place the bread in a large bowl and add the milk. Let soak for a few minutes.
  • Add the remaining ingredients to the bread except for half of the ketchup and combine well.
  • Form into a loaf in the baking dish.
  • Spread the remaining ketchup over the top of the meatloaf.
  • Bake, covered, for 45 minutes.
  • Remove cover and bake for an additional 30 minutes.
  • Let stand 5 -10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Also great sliced and served on toasted Texas toast for sandwiches!

Nutrition

Calories: 353kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 122mg | Sodium: 202mg | Potassium: 446mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 364IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 72mg | Iron: 3mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Deluxe Smoked Habanero Meatloaf

This deluxe smoked habanero meatloaf is by far my favorite version of any smoked meatloaf that I’ve made. The meat comes out unbelievably tender, with a nice smoky flavor. And of course, there’s a kick – a big kick from spicy BBQ sauce mixed with habanero salsa and mixed into the meat and used as a glaze.

Deluxe Smoked Habanero Meatloaf

Perfect For Sandwiches Too!

The leftover deluxe smoked habanero meatloaf (if you have any) is just as good as the day you made it. Perfect for sandwiches. For sandwiches we just topped crisped French bread with a slab of warmed meatloaf followed by mayonnaise and red onion. The onion adds a nice crunch to the tender meatloaf.

You can make this dish in the oven and still have a fantastic dish, too.

I prefer to use fruit or nut woods when I smoke unless I want a heavier smoke flavor. Pecan, apple or cherry are my favorites. I used apple for this meatloaf.

Pecan Wood Chunks 4lb
Pecan Wood Chunks 4lb

If you prefer a more savory meatloaf try my smoked Italian meatloaf. It’s a bit more work, but worth it.

I smoked the meatloaf on my Weber Smokey Mountain smoker. You can also make it in the oven, or over indirect heat on a gas or charcoal grill.

Smoked Habanero Meatloaf Version 2.0
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5 from 1 vote

Deluxe Smoked Habanero Meatloaf

This smoked habanero meatloaf is by far my favorite. The meat comes out tender, with a nice smokey flavor (though you can make it in the oven and still have a fantastic dish). And of course, there’s a kick.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword meatloaf, smoked, spicy
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 445kcal
Author Mike

Ingredients

Instructions

For the smoker

  • Fire up your smoker for cooking at 225 – 250 F with a light wood, such as apple.

For the oven

  • Preheat oven to 450 F.

Assembly

  • Place the onion, celery and green pepper into a blender. Pulse until chopped, but not quite pureed. Squeeze out any excess moisture. It is important to get as much moisture out as you can. I put the vegetable mixture in a cheesecloth and wrung them like a wet towel.
  • Place beef and pork into a large bowl. Add onion mixture.
  • Whisk egg with milk and add to beef mixture, along with the bread crumbs and steak seasoning.
  • In a separate bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, salsa, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour half of the sauce onto the meat mixture and combine all ingredients well. Reserve the remaining sauce.
  • Spray a 9×13 aluminum (or glass if using the oven) pan with non-stick spray.
  • Add the beef/pork mixture and form into a roll. Spoon remaining sauce over top.
  • If cooking in the oven, bake 45-60 minutes or until center is done. You may want to drain some of the accumulating fat before serving.
  • If cooking in the smoker, poke a few holes along the edges of the aluminum pan so that any accumulating fat drips out. Smoke 2-3 hours at 250 F or until the center is done.
  • Let meatloaf rest for 10 minutes and then slice into thick pieces.

Notes

Also great served on toasted Texas toast as sandwiches! 

Nutrition

Calories: 445kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 104mg | Sodium: 692mg | Potassium: 606mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 16g | Vitamin A: 326IU | Vitamin C: 16mg | Calcium: 90mg | Iron: 3mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker, 12'' Smoker Tube for Pellet Grill - Hot or Cold Smoker Accessories for Electric Gas Charcoal Grilling, Premium Stainless Steel Portable Barbecue Smoking Tube, Bonus Brush
Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker, 12” Smoker Tube for Pellet Grill – Hot or Cold Smoker Accessories for Electric Gas Charcoal Grilling, Premium Stainless Steel Portable Barbecue Smoking Tube, Bonus Brush

Cajun Meatloaf

Meatloaf is one of our favorite dishes. Although we make a traditional meatloaf in the oven, using a meatloaf pan, we really love meatloaf that is smoked on the smoker. The addition of a light smoky flavor really makes meatloaf something special. You can make this meatloaf either way, in the oven or on the smoker. This Cajun meatloaf is unbelievably tender and tasty. The vegetable mixture is amazing, keeping the meatloaf moist and adding some crunchy to boot.

Cajun Meatloaf

Good Gravy, It’s Great Meatloaf!

I served this meatloaf with our Cajun brown gravy, which is also incredibly rich and flavorful. You can find the recipe for the gravy in our post on brisket with Cajun brown gravy. For a simpler but still fantastic gravy, make our fast Cajun gravy.

Chicago Metallic Non-Stick 2-Piece Healthy Meatloaf Set, Grey
Chicago Metallic Non-Stick 2-Piece Healthy Meatloaf Set, Grey

Also try my easy Creole meatloaf.

Cajun Meatloaf
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5 from 1 vote

Cajun Meatloaf

This Cajun meatloaf is unbelievably tender and tasty. The vegetable mixture is amazing, keeping the meatloaf moist and adding some crunchy to boot.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword Cajun, meatloaf
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings 12 servings
Calories 621kcal
Author Mike

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 325 F or fire up a smoker for high-heat smoking.
  • Melt the butter in large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the onions, celery, and bell pepper. Cook until almost tender.
  • Add the garlic and cook another 2 minutes.
  • Add the ketchup and cream. Stir and simmer for 5 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and let cool completely.
  • Add remaining ingredients to a large bowl. Add in the cooled vegetable mix.
  • Using your hands, mix well.
  • Transfer to a large disposable aluminum pan or baking dish and cook or smoke for two hours or until internal temperature reaches 160 F.
  • Remove and let rest for 10 minutes then drain the grease.
  • Let rest another 20 minutes then drain grease. Slice and serve.

Notes

It’s a little work and a good number of ingredients, but it’s worth it!

Nutrition

Calories: 621kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 31g | Fat: 44g | Saturated Fat: 19g | Trans Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 199mg | Sodium: 892mg | Potassium: 661mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 768IU | Vitamin C: 16mg | Calcium: 100mg | Iron: 4mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)