The aroma of a freshly baked BBQ cheddar meatloaf wafts through the air, mingling with visions of cozy family dinners and laughter. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a flavorful adventure that wraps you in a warm hug from the inside out.
Imagine sinking your teeth into tender meatloaf, bursting with smoky BBQ goodness and gooey cheddar cheese. Whether it’s a rainy Sunday afternoon or a casual weeknight dinner, this recipe promises to elevate any occasion to gourmet status.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This BBQ cheddar meatloaf is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- Its smoky flavor combined with melty cheese creates an irresistible taste sensation
- The stunning presentation will impress your family and friends at gatherings
- Versatile enough to serve with various sides or on its own for a quick meal
I once made this BBQ cheddar meatloaf for my family during a surprise visit from my parents. To say they were impressed would be an understatement!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Choose a blend of 80/20 for juicy flavor without being too greasy.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand for that smoky sweetness that defines this dish.
Cheddar Cheese: Shred fresh cheddar for better melting and flavor, avoiding pre-shredded varieties.
Breadcrumbs: I prefer using plain breadcrumbs to absorb moisture while keeping the texture light.
Eggs: Two large eggs will help bind everything together beautifully.
Onion: Finely chopped onion adds moisture and sweetness; sauté them first for deeper flavor.
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder enhances the savory depth without overpowering other flavors.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance all the flavors in your meatloaf mixture.
Parsley (optional): Freshly chopped parsley adds a vibrant touch and freshness if you’re feeling fancy.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This little step ensures effortless cleanup later on.
Sauté the Onion: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté the finely chopped onion until it’s translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This will bring out its natural sweetness.
Mix the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, sautéed onion, breadcrumbs, eggs, 1 cup of BBQ sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands (or a spoon if you’re fancy) to mix until just combined—don’t overdo it; we want tender meatloaf!
Add Cheddar Cheese: Gently fold in half of the shredded cheese into the meat mixture for delightful cheesy pockets throughout. It’s like hiding treasures!
Mold into Loaf Shape**: Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press it down gently but firmly—no one likes crumbling meatloaf at dinner!
Topping Time**: Spread the remaining BBQ sauce over the top of your meatloaf like icing on a cake—because who doesn’t love an extra layer of flavor? Sprinkle the rest of that glorious cheddar cheese on top as well.
Bake Away**: Place your masterpiece in the oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes or until cooked through (160°F internal temperature). The cheese should be bubbly and golden brown—a true sight to behold!
Once done baking, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep those juicy flavors intact!
And there you have it! Your BBQ cheddar meatloaf is ready to shine on your dinner table. Serve it with sides like creamy mashed potatoes or crispy green beans for an unforgettable meal everyone will rave about!
You Must Know
- This BBQ cheddar meatloaf combines smoky flavors with gooey cheese, making it a crowd-pleaser
- You can easily adjust the spices based on your taste
- The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly waiting for dinner
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the meat and seasonings, then shape it into a loaf. Bake at 350°F until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F for juicy perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or add veggies for extra texture. Switching up the spices can also create new flavor profiles.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F to maintain its deliciousness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ground beef for better flavor and texture; avoid lean beef to keep moisture locked in
- Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to retain juiciness; cutting too soon causes juices to escape
- Don’t skip the BBQ sauce glaze; it adds a delightful sticky finish that everyone loves
Creating this BBQ cheddar meatloaf was a game-changer during our last family gathering. Everyone raved about it, and my cousin even asked for a take-home portion!
FAQ
Can I use turkey instead of beef for BBQ cheddar meatloaf?
Absolutely! Turkey makes for a lighter option while still being delicious and flavorful.
How do I know when my meatloaf is fully cooked?
Check if it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F using a meat thermometer.
What can I serve with BBQ cheddar meatloaf?
Pair it with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.
BBQ Cheddar Meatloaf
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this BBQ cheddar meatloaf, where smoky BBQ flavor meets gooey cheddar cheese. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish offers a delightful blend of taste and nostalgia that everyone will love. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can create a gourmet experience right in your kitchen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (divided)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
- In a skillet, sauté the finely chopped onion in oil until translucent.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, sautéed onion, breadcrumbs, eggs, ½ cup BBQ sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Gently fold in half of the cheddar cheese.
- Transfer mixture to the loaf pan and shape it evenly. Top with remaining BBQ sauce and cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
