How to make Cheesy Smoked Meatloaf on Traeger

Traeger Meatloaf Recipe: Welcome to a yummy experience where smoky flavors meet gooey cheese, and a hearty classic gets a fun twist.

Chill Saturdays at home are the perfect time to pull out the Traeger and smoke a piece of meat, no matter the season. It effortlessly elevates an ordinary cut—whether it’s chicken, salmon, or meatloaf—to the next level. I used to believe smoking was reserved for pricier cuts like brisket or ribs, but I’ve since learned that nearly anything can be smoked to create delicious, flavorful results. In this post, I’ll show you just how easy it is to whip up the easiest smoked meatloaf.

Why you will love this traeger meatloaf recipe:

• Rich Flavor Combination: The melding of smoky, savory meat with gooey, melted cheese creates a rich and irresistible flavor that everyone’s taste buds will love. Plus, the combination of textures makes each bite even more satisfying.
• Juicy Texture: Smoking the meatloaf not only keeps it incredibly moist and juicy but also infuses it with a deep, smoky flavor. Meanwhile, the cheese melts beautifully, adding a creamy, gooey twist to every bite for an irresistible combination.
• Comfort Food Appeal: Meatloaf is a classic comfort food, and the addition of cheese takes it up a notch, making it even more satisfying and indulgent.
• Versatility: You can customize your meatloaf with different types of cheese—cheddar, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Gatherings: It’s a crowd-pleaser! Whether for a family dinner or a summer bbq, cheesy smoked meatloaf is a great option to make without breaking the bank.
• Leftovers: If you somehow manage to have any leftovers, they make for fantastic sandwiches the next day!
• Easy to make: While it sounds gourmet, cheesy smoked meatloaf is surprisingly easy to prepare.

Meatloaf Ingredients:

• 2 lbs. ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3/4 cup bread crumbs (or oatmeal for gluten free)
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 2 eggs
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp parsley
• 1 tbsp oregano
• 8 oz cheese (Swiss, mozzarella, cheddar, or pepper jack cheese)
• BBQ sauce for brushing

Instructions on how to make Traeger Meatloaf Recipe

1. Heat Traeger grill up to 250 degrees F. 
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, onions, breadcrumbs, tomato sauce, eggs, worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, parsley and oregano. Mix well. 
3. Line a loaf pan with plastic wrap to make shaping easier (don’t worry, this gets removed before cooking).
4. Scoop half of the meat mixture into the plastic-lined loaf and pat it down well. 
5. Place the cheese in the middle of the meatloaf and press it down. 
6. Pack remaining meat around and on top of cheese and pat it down really well to make sure the cheese is sealed in. 
7. Invert the loaf pan onto the smoker rack and quickly remove the plastic and the pan. 
8. Insert the temperature probe into the meat making sure you’re not hitting the cheese. Smoke for 2-3 hours until internal temperature reads 165 degrees F.
9. At this point, brush top of the meatloaf heavily with your favorite BBQ sauce and let that smoke for another 20-30 minutes. 
10. Transfer the meatloaf to a cutting board and cut into slices and serve immediately. 

FAQ’s:

Do I have to have a loaf pan to make this in?

You don’t have to use a loaf pan to make smoked meatloaf; instead, this is just a great way to get that nice loaf shape. However, you can also shape your meatloaf by hand on a piece of foil and then flip it directly onto the grill grates. Alternatively, you can use any deeper dish to shape it in, giving you plenty of flexibility in how you prepare it.

Do I need to pre-cook any ingredients before adding them to the meatloaf?

Onions may benefit from being sautéed before being added to the meatloaf mixture to enhance their flavors and soften their texture. However, it’s not necessary.

Should I use a drip pan or foil under the meatloaf?

Using a drip pan or lining the smoker grate with foil can make cleanup easier and help prevent any juices or cheese from dripping into the smoker.

Can I make my own glaze or sauce for the top?

Absolutely! I have a barbecue sauce that we love to use for this but I would totally also use my glaze that I make for my original meatloaf recipe to top this with! 

How do I know when the Traeger meatloaf is done?

The meatloaf is done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Cooking time will vary so use a meat thermometer to check this. The meatloaf should be firm.

Can I prepare the meatloaf in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to smoke it.

What are some good side dishes to serve with cheesy smoked meatloaf?

Popular side dishes include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, corn on the cob, coleslaw, or a fresh salad. These classic pairings complement the smoky flavors of the meatloaf and create a well-rounded meal.

How can I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat slices in the oven or microwave until heated through. For a different twist, you can also enjoy it cold in sandwiches for a quick and delicious meal.

Can I use ground pork for a part of the meat?

Yes, you can definitely switch out some of the ground beef for other ground meats! That sounds delicious, and the best part is, you won’t need to alter the recipe at all.

Do I have to use a Traeger to smoke this?

Definitely not, While Traeger smokers are popular and wonderful, there are plenty of other options you can use to get that wood-fired flavor:

Electric Smokers: Easy to use and maintain consistent temperatures.

Charcoal Smokers: Great for achieving a deep, rich smoky flavor.

Gas Smokers: Convenient and quick to heat up.

Wood pellet grill: Like the Traeger, these use wood pellets for a consistent smoke.

Which wood chips are best for smoking meatloaf?

Hickory: A classic choice for smoking, hickory wood chips impart a strong, hearty flavor that’s perfect for red meats, including meatloaf. Plus, they add a rich, smoky, bacon-like taste that enhances every bite.

Applewood: For a milder, slightly sweet flavor, applewood is a fantastic option. It complements the meatloaf without overwhelming it.

Cherrywood: These are great wood chips that provide a subtle, fruity flavor that pairs nicely with meatloaf, adding a touch of sweetness.

Oak: A versatile wood that offers a balanced smoky flavor, oak is a good middle ground between mild and strong woods.

Other Ground Beef Recipes You Will Enjoy:

Stuffed Peppers

Ground Beef Stroganoff

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