Introduction
Forget boring meatloaf! This Traeger Pizza Meatloaf recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a fun, flavorful, and kid-approved dinner that’s sure to become a family favorite. We’re taking all the deliciousness of pizza and wrapping it up in a juicy, comforting meatloaf—perfect for a casual weeknight meal or a weekend celebration. Get ready for a pizza party in your meatloaf!
Why This Works
This recipe is a winner because it cleverly combines the comforting familiarity of meatloaf with the exciting taste of pizza. The Traeger smoker adds a smoky depth that elevates the flavors beyond anything you could achieve in a conventional oven. It’s easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and the results are spectacular!
Key Ingredients
- 🥩 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 🍕 1 cup pizza sauce
- 🧀 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 🧅 1 medium onion, chopped
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🥚 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 🍞 1 cup bread crumbs
- 🌿 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 🌿 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 🧂 1 teaspoon salt
- 胡椒 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 🥓 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your Traeger grill to 325°F (160°C).
2️⃣ In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, onion, garlic, egg, bread crumbs, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and crumbled bacon (if using). Be careful not to overmix; you want the meatloaf to be tender.
3️⃣ Shape the meatloaf mixture into a loaf and place it on a piece of aluminum foil on the grill grates.
4️⃣ Smoke the meatloaf for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
5️⃣ Remove the meatloaf from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Handy Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to the top of the meatloaf before grilling.
- If you don’t have a Traeger, you can bake this meatloaf in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 50-60 minutes.
- Don’t press down on the meatloaf as you shape it; this can make it tough.
Heat Control
The Traeger’s lower temperature (325°F) ensures that the meatloaf cooks evenly without drying out. This slow-cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully and results in a juicy and tender meatloaf.
Crunch Factor
The crumbled bacon adds a delightful salty crunch, contrasting nicely with the soft texture of the meatloaf. The slightly crispy top from the smoker also adds a pleasing textural element.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For a shortcut, use pre-chopped onions and garlic to save time.
- Boost the flavor by using your favorite pizza seasoning blend.
- Get creative with toppings! Add sliced pepperoni or other pizza toppings to the top of the meatloaf before grilling.
Storage Tips
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s also great reheated in the microwave or oven.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This meatloaf makes a fantastic gift! Slice it and package it beautifully in a decorative container with a side of your favorite BBQ sauce.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Pizza Meatloaf: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture.
🌟 Mediterranean Pizza Meatloaf: Substitute Italian sausage for some of the ground beef and add sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese.
🌟 Veggie Pizza Meatloaf: Add chopped bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms to the meatloaf mixture for a heartier, veggie-packed option.
🌟 BBQ Pizza Meatloaf: Use BBQ sauce instead of pizza sauce and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Troubleshooting
- Meatloaf is dry: Next time, try reducing the cooking time slightly or adding a little more bread crumbs to the mixture to retain moisture.
- Meatloaf is falling apart: Make sure you don’t overmix the ingredients and handle it gently.
- Meatloaf isn’t cooked through: Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) before removing it from the grill.
FAQ
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the meatloaf a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
- What kind of bread crumbs should I use? Panko bread crumbs work well, but regular bread crumbs will also work.
- Can I use a different type of cheese? Feel free to experiment with your favorite type of cheese! Provolone, pepper jack, or even a blend would be delicious.
- What if I don’t have a Traeger? You can bake this meatloaf in a conventional oven at 350° F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
Conclusion
This Traeger Pizza Meatloaf is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! It’s a fun twist on a classic comfort food, and the smoky flavor from the Traeger is simply irresistible. Give it a try and let us know what you think! We can’t wait to see your delicious creations – don’t forget to share your photos with us on social media!