Traeger Smoked Meatloaf: A Deliciously Simple Recipe

Meatloaf is a timeless dish that many remember from their childhood dinners. However, the traditional recipe often left much to be desired in terms of flavor and excitement. Enter Traeger's "Not Your Mama's Meatloaf" recipe, a fresh take on this classic comfort food. This version, crafted by Matt Crawford, promises to elevate the humble meatloaf to a new level with rich, wood-fired flavors and a savory glaze.

Ingredients and Preparation

Ingredients:

• Meatloaf:

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons chopped onion
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground sage
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 2 beaten eggs
  • 2 pounds ground beef
  • 1/4 pound ground sausage

• Glaze:

  • 1 cup Traeger 'Que BBQ Sauce
  • 1/2 cup apple juice

Preparation:

1. Preheat the Grill: Set your Traeger grill to 225°F and preheat with the lid closed for 15 minutes. Use the Super Smoke setting for an enhanced flavor.
2. Mix the Ingredients: Combine breadcrumbs, milk, onion, sage, and salt in a bowl. Add the beaten eggs, followed by the ground beef and sausage. Mix well and form the mixture into a tightly packed loaf.
3. Cook the Meatloaf: Place the meatloaf on a wire rack and transfer it to the grill. Cook for approximately 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
4. Apply the Glaze: In the final 20 minutes of cooking, mix the BBQ sauce with apple juice and glaze the meatloaf.
5. Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

1. Wood-Fired Flavor: The use of Traeger grills and applewood pellets infuses the meatloaf with a smoky, rich flavor that you won't get from a conventional oven.
2. Savory Glaze: The combination of Traeger 'Que BBQ Sauce and apple juice creates a sweet and tangy glaze that enhances the meatloaf's overall taste.
3. Perfect Texture: The mix of ground beef and sausage, along with the breadcrumbs and milk, ensures a moist and tender meatloaf.

This unique twist on meatloaf shows that even the most traditional dishes can be reinvented to offer new and exciting flavors. With a blend of modern cooking techniques and classic ingredients, Traeger's "Not Your Mama's Meatloaf" is sure to become a new family favorite.