Honey BBQ Meatloaf

A beautifully glazed Honey BBQ Meatloaf is the definition of comfort food. The combination of ground beef and pork creates a tender, juicy bite, while the blend of Worcestershire sauce, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs infuses deep flavor into every slice. The sweet and tangy glaze, made from BBQ sauce, honey, and grape jelly, caramelizes in the oven for a glossy, irresistible finish.

This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner, meal prep for the week, or even a special occasion. The balance of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh salad. Whether you’re craving a nostalgic classic or just want a deliciously satisfying meal, this Honey BBQ Meatloaf is sure to be a hit at your dinner table!

Full Recipe

Ingredients:

Meatloaf Mix:

• 2 pounds ground beef (85/15)

• 1 pound ground pork

• 1 large yellow onion, finely diced

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 3 large eggs, beaten

• 2/3 cup whole milk

• 3/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs

• 2/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

• 2 teaspoons sea salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Sweet BBQ Glaze:

• 1 cup favorite BBQ sauce

• 1/3 cup honey

• 1/4 cup grape jelly

• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, allowing edges to hang over for easy removal.

2. In a small skillet, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic over medium heat until softened (about 5 minutes). Let cool completely.

3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes.

4. Add the ground beef, ground pork, and cooled onion mixture to the bowl. Gently mix with your hands until just combined—avoid overmixing.

5. Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing gently to remove air pockets but not packing it too tightly.

6. In a separate bowl, whisk together all the glaze ingredients.

7. Spread 1/3 of the glaze evenly over the meatloaf.

8. Bake for 45 minutes, then brush another 1/3 of the glaze on top.

9. Continue baking for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

10. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with the remaining glaze.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Kcal: 425 kcal per serving | Servings: 8

Sweet and Smoky Honey BBQ Meatloaf: The Ultimate Comfort Food

Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that has stood the test of time, evolving with different variations across cultures. This Honey BBQ Meatloaf takes the traditional dish to the next level by incorporating a rich blend of ground beef and pork, fresh seasonings, and a sweet, tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. If you’re looking for a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this recipe is a must-try.

Why This Honey BBQ Meatloaf Stands Out

Unlike basic meatloaf recipes that rely solely on ketchup-based glazes, this version elevates the dish by combining BBQ sauce, honey, grape jelly, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar for a glaze that’s both sweet and slightly tangy. This not only enhances the overall taste but also creates an irresistible caramelized crust that locks in moisture.

The addition of freshly grated Parmesan cheese brings a unique depth of umami flavor, making each bite even more satisfying. Meanwhile, the blend of ground beef and pork ensures a juicy texture, while the aromatics like onion, garlic, and fresh parsley infuse the meat with bold flavors.

The Secret to a Moist and Flavorful Meatloaf

One of the biggest concerns when making meatloaf is avoiding a dry, crumbly texture. Here are a few essential tips to keep it moist and delicious every time:

• Use a mix of meats: Combining ground beef with ground pork adds extra fat and flavor, preventing the meatloaf from drying out.

• Don’t overmix: Overworking the meat mixture can lead to a dense and tough texture. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

• Let the mixture rest: Allowing the wet ingredients (eggs, milk, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce) to soak before adding the meat ensures a tender bite.

• Cook at the right temperature: Baking at 350°F (175°C) allows the meat to cook evenly without losing moisture.

• Use a meat thermometer: Meatloaf should reach 160°F (71°C) internally to be fully cooked while remaining juicy.

The Perfect BBQ Glaze: A Game-Changer

What truly sets this Honey BBQ Meatloaf apart is its mouthwatering glaze. Unlike traditional tomato-based toppings, this glaze offers a balance of sweetness and acidity, making it incredibly addictive.

• BBQ sauce serves as the smoky, savory base.

• Honey adds a natural sweetness that caramelizes during baking.

• Grape jelly is the secret ingredient that gives the glaze a glossy finish and subtle fruitiness.

• Dijon mustard provides a mild heat and depth of flavor.

• Apple cider vinegar balances the sweetness with a slight tang.

Brushing the glaze on the meatloaf in two stages ensures that it soaks into the meat while also forming a sticky, delicious crust on the outside.

Best Side Dishes to Pair with Honey BBQ Meatloaf

This meatloaf is delicious on its own, but it pairs exceptionally well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some of the best options:

• Classic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy, buttery texture complements the richness of the meatloaf.

• Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans roasted with olive oil make for a great side.

• Mac and Cheese: A cheesy, baked macaroni dish adds an extra level of indulgence.

• Coleslaw: The crunch and tanginess help balance out the sweet and smoky glaze.

• Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

This Honey BBQ Meatloaf is perfect for meal prepping since it stores well and reheats beautifully. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the meat mixture up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

• Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

• Reheating Tips: Warm slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or microwave in short intervals to prevent drying out.

Creative Ways to Enjoy Leftover Meatloaf

Leftover Honey BBQ Meatloaf can be just as exciting as the original meal! Try these creative serving ideas:

• Meatloaf Sandwich: Layer a slice between two pieces of toasted bread with extra BBQ sauce.

• Meatloaf Sliders: Use small dinner rolls to make bite-sized sandwiches with pickles and coleslaw.

• Meatloaf Hash: Chop up meatloaf and sauté it with diced potatoes and onions for a delicious breakfast dish.

• Meatloaf Stuffed Peppers: Crumble the leftovers and use them as a filling for bell peppers, topped with cheese.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Honey BBQ Meatloaf is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or special gatherings. The flavors are bold, the texture is juicy, and the glaze takes it to the next level. Whether you’re a fan of traditional meatloaf or looking for a new twist on a classic dish, this version is sure to become a family favorite.

Conclusion

Meatloaf is one of those nostalgic, home-cooked meals that never goes out of style. This Honey BBQ Meatloaf brings an exciting update to the traditional recipe with its juicy texture, rich flavors, and a sticky, caramelized glaze that makes every bite unforgettable. By following simple tips like using a blend of meats, avoiding overmixing, and layering the glaze, you can create a dish that’s both delicious and foolproof.

Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner at home, meal prepping for the week, or trying out leftovers in creative ways, this recipe is a versatile and satisfying option. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy the comforting, smoky-sweet flavors that make this Honey BBQ Meatloaf an absolute winner.