This Smoky Paprika Beef Meatloaf is a hearty twist on classic comfort food, featuring ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onions, garlic, milk, and a generous seasoning of smoked paprika for a bold, smoky depth. It’s perfect for those looking for a satisfying homestyle dinner.
Cooking this meatloaf on a smoker or Traeger grill infuses it with rich barbecue flavor, creating a tender and juicy texture. Finished with a tangy BBQ glaze, this smoked meatloaf is sure to impress.
Overview of Smoky Paprika Beef Meatloaf
The Smoky Paprika Beef Meatloaf is a delightful twist on traditional comfort food, showcasing the rich flavors of smoked paprika and ground beef. This dish is not just a meal; it embodies the essence of homestyle cooking, perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home.
When prepared using a smoker or Traeger grill, this meatloaf takes on an incredible depth of flavor, making it a standout choice among smoked meatloaf recipes. The combination of ingredients creates a juicy, tender texture, while the tangy BBQ glaze adds a finishing touch that elevates the dish.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
The key components of this recipe include ground beef, breadcrumbs, and a medley of spices, with smoked paprika being the star ingredient. This spice not only enhances the flavor but also gives the meatloaf its signature smoky aroma.
Alongside the beef, onions and garlic contribute to the overall taste, while eggs and milk help bind the mixture together, ensuring a moist and satisfying result. The addition of barbecue sauce for glazing brings a sweet and tangy contrast that complements the savory elements beautifully.
Preparation Steps for a Perfect Meatloaf
Preparing the Smoky Paprika Beef Meatloaf is straightforward and can be done in a few simple steps. Start by preheating your smoker to the ideal temperature, allowing the meatloaf to absorb that wonderful smoky flavor.
Next, combine all the ingredients in a large bowl, ensuring they are mixed well for even flavor distribution. Shaping the meatloaf can be done in a loaf pan or by hand, depending on your preference. Once formed, it’s ready to be placed in the smoker, where it will cook to perfection.
Cooking Techniques for Smoky Flavor
Smoking the meatloaf is where the magic happens. Cooking it at a low temperature allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that is both tender and juicy. Monitoring the internal temperature is crucial, as it ensures the meatloaf is cooked through while remaining moist.
During the final moments of cooking, brushing the meatloaf with barbecue sauce creates a glossy, flavorful glaze that enhances the overall presentation and taste. This step is essential for achieving that classic BBQ meatloaf finish.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Once the meatloaf has rested, it can be sliced and served warm. The juicy interior is revealed with each cut, making it visually appealing as well as delicious. Garnishing with fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
For a complete meal, consider pairing the Smoky Paprika Beef Meatloaf with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. A small bowl of barbecue sauce on the side allows guests to add extra flavor to their slices, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Why This Meatloaf Stands Out
This Smoky Paprika Beef Meatloaf is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a favorite among both adults and children alike.
Whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner option or a dish to impress at gatherings, this smoked meatloaf recipe is sure to deliver. Its unique flavor profile and ease of preparation make it a go-to recipe for anyone seeking delicious comfort food.
Delicious Smoked Meatloaf Recipe
This recipe for Smoky Paprika Beef Meatloaf combines ground beef with breadcrumbs and spices, resulting in a flavorful dish that serves well as a comforting main course. It takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the Smoker: Preheat your smoker or Traeger grill to 250°F (120°C).
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a piece of parchment paper.
- Smoke the Meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in the smoker and cook for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Glaze the Meatloaf: During the last 15 minutes of cooking, brush the top of the meatloaf with barbecue sauce.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the smoker and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 slices
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 15g