BBQ Cheddar Meatloaf

Imagine the aroma of smoky barbecue sauce mingling with melted cheddar cheese as it wafts through your kitchen.

There’s something about a classic Bbq Cheddar Meatloaf that feels both simple and indulgent, making it a comforting favorite.

As the ingredients meld together in the oven, they transform into a flavorful, savory masterpiece.

Let’s bring this dish to life and enjoy the heartwarming satisfaction it brings to our table.

Kitchen Tools Required

• 1 large mixing bowl
• 1 loaf pan
• 1 measuring cup set
• 1 measuring spoon set
• 1 oven
• 1 meat thermometer
• 1 baking sheet

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 egg beaten
• 1 small onion finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Cook & Prep Time

To efficiently manage your time while preparing and cooking the BBQ Cheddar Meatloaf, you can follow this timeline:

1. Reading and Preparation (5 minutes)
   • Start by reading through the entire recipe and gathering all necessary ingredients and equipment.
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Ingredient Preparation (10 minutes)
   • Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
   • Shred the cheddar cheese if using a block instead of pre-shredded cheese.
3. Mixing Ingredients (5 minutes)
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, BBQ sauce, beaten egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
   • Mix the ingredients until well combined.
4. Forming and Placing the Meatloaf (5 minutes)
   • Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the loaf pan.
   • Place the loaf pan on a baking sheet to catch any drippings.
5. Baking (1 hour)
   • Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour.
   • Optional: During the last 15 minutes, apply a glaze of additional BBQ sauce on top of the meatloaf for extra flavor.
6. Resting (10 minutes)
   • Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Adjust the timing as needed based on your pace and any additional garnishes you might want to add.

Recipe Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, BBQ sauce, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.

Mix the ingredients until well combined.

Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the loaf pan.

Place the loaf pan on a baking sheet to catch any drippings.

Bake in the oven for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Serving Tips

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a classic and comforting side that pairs well with the rich flavors of the meatloaf.
• Steamed Vegetables: A mix of steamed broccoli, carrots, and green beans adds color and a healthy balance to the meal.
• Coleslaw: Crisp and tangy coleslaw offers a revitalizing contrast to the savory meatloaf.
• Corn on the Cob: Sweet and buttery corn on the cob complements the BBQ flavor of the meatloaf.
• Garlic Bread: Warm and crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any BBQ sauce drippings.

Storage

After cooking, store Bbq Cheddar Meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months.

Freezing

To freeze BBQ Cheddar Meatloaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

Label with the date, and freeze for up to three months.

Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat BBQ Cheddar Meatloaf, slice and microwave on medium power until warm.

Alternatively, cover with foil and heat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, maintaining moisture.

Final Thoughts

Bbq Cheddar Meatloaf is a delicious and comforting dish that combines savory flavors with a hint of sweetness.

The combination of cheddar cheese and BBQ sauce creates a rich and satisfying taste.

This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or gathering. The meatloaf is simple to prepare and requires minimal ingredients.

By following the instructions, you can create a flavorful meal that everyone will enjoy.

Additionally, adding a BBQ glaze during the last 15 minutes of baking enhances the flavor and presentation.

Resting the meatloaf for 10 minutes guarantees it holds its shape when sliced.

Enjoy this classic American dish with your favorite sides for a delightful meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or gouda. Make certain the cheese melts well and complements BBQ flavors. Adjust quantities as needed to maintain the recipe’s balance and achieve desired taste.

Is There a Vegetarian Alternative to This Recipe?

Yes, you can replace ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat. Use a plant-based cheese, egg replacer, and guarantee your BBQ sauce is vegetarian. Adjust spices to taste for best results.

What Side Dishes Pair Well With Meatloaf?

You should pair meatloaf with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or steamed green beans. These sides complement the flavors, offering a balance of textures and tastes. Don’t forget to season your sides for an enhanced dining experience.

Can I Make This Meatloaf Gluten-Free?

You can make it gluten-free by swapping regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. Confirm all other ingredients, like BBQ sauce and Worcestershire sauce, are gluten-free. Double-check labels to avoid cross-contamination and maintain recipe integrity.

How Can I Reduce the Sodium Content?

To reduce sodium content, use low-sodium BBQ sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Opt for unsalted breadcrumbs. Replace salt with a salt substitute or omit it altogether. Additionally, check cheese labels for lower sodium options to further decrease sodium levels.

BBQ Cheddar Meatloaf

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Resting Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 25 minutes mins

Course Main

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Equipment

• 1 large mixing bowl
• 1 Loaf pan
• 1 measuring cup set
• 1 measuring spoon set
• 1 Oven
• 1 Meat thermometer
• 1 Baking sheet

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 egg beaten
• 1 small onion finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

 

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, BBQ sauce, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
• Mix the ingredients until well combined.
• Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the loaf pan.
• Place the loaf pan on a baking sheet to catch any drippings.
• Bake in the oven for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
• Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding a glaze of additional BBQ sauce on top of the meatloaf during the last 15 minutes of baking. This can enhance the BBQ flavor and give the meatloaf a shiny, appetizing finish. Additionally, using freshly shredded cheddar cheese instead of pre-shredded can improve the texture and melting quality of the cheese in the meatloaf.

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Cynthia Weatherford

Cynthia Weatherford is a seasoned chef and culinary enthusiast who serves as the Recipe creator of Somonday. With decades of experience in the kitchen and a passion for exploring diverse cuisines, Cynthia brings a blend of creativity and technique to every dish. Known for transforming simple ingredients into show-stopping meals, Cynthia believes that cooking is an art form anyone can master. Dedicated to inspiring home cooks, Cynthia shares approachable recipes, pro tips, and culinary wisdom to make every meal memorable.