Craft a mouthwatering Ground Beef BBQ Recipe with a balance of lean and fatty ground beef, seasoned with garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Create a signature BBQ glaze from ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper for a sweet, tangy, spicy profile. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes, brushing on BBQ glaze during the final 10-15 minutes to caramelize. Serve warm with mashed potatoes or crispy vegetables, alongside coleslaw or barbecue sauce. Store leftovers in the fridge or freezer.
“Indulge in a mouthwatering journey with our Ground Beef BBQ Meatloaf—a classic recipe with a twist! This hearty dish melds tender ground beef with a smoky BBQ glaze, creating a savory delight. Learn how to master each step from mixing and shaping to baking and glazing for the perfect result. Discover ideal cooking times, storage tips, and creative serving ideas for this satisfying Ground Beef BBQ Recipe. Get ready to elevate your barbecue experience!”
- Ingredients for Ground Beef BBQ Meatloaf
- Preparation Steps: Mixing and Shaping the Meatloaf
- Baking the Meatloaf and Applying the Savory Glaze
- Cooking Time and Temperature Considerations
- Serving Suggestions and Tips for Storage
Ingredients for Ground Beef BBQ Meatloaf
When crafting a mouthwatering Ground Beef BBQ Recipe, the key lies in selecting the right ingredients to create a savory, juicy meatloaf with a delightful BBQ glaze. Start with high-quality ground beef, ideally a mix of lean and fatty cuts for both flavor and moisture. Don’t forget to incorporate breadcrumbs or crushed crackers to bind the mixture, along with an assortment of spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
For the BBQ sauce that will become the glaze, a simple blend of ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and a dash of cayenne pepper delivers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. This glaze not only adds an irresistible taste but also helps to keep the meatloaf moist and tender as it bakes.
Preparation Steps: Mixing and Shaping the Meatloaf
To prepare this mouthwatering Ground Beef BBQ meatloaf, start by combining 1 pound of lean ground beef with 1 egg, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce, and finely chopped onions and garlic in a large mixing bowl. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick (this is where you can customize the spice level to your preference). Mix everything well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Once the meatloaf mixture is ready, shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. The key to a perfect meatloaf is shaping it slightly higher in the center than the edges, creating a slight dome. This allows for even cooking and a juicy interior. Top the meatloaf with your chosen BBQ glaze before baking at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes or until cooked through.
Baking the Meatloaf and Applying the Savory Glaze
After shaping the meatloaf, place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 45-50 minutes or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center reads 165°F (74°C). While the meatloaf bakes, prepare the glaze by mixing BBQ sauce with Dijon mustard and a pinch of brown sugar. Once the meatloaf is nearly done, brush the glaze over the top evenly, ensuring every inch is coated. Return it to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the glaze to caramelize slightly. The aroma of the savoury glaze will fill your kitchen as the meatloaf completes its baking journey.
Cooking Time and Temperature Considerations
When crafting a delicious Ground Beef BBQ Recipe, understanding cooking time and temperature is key to achieving the perfect meatloaf. Typically, this mouthwatering dish requires an oven temperature ranging from 350°F (175°C) to 375°F (190°C). The recommended cooking time for a juicy and well-done meatloaf is approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the size and thickness of your loaf. For an extra crispy exterior and tender interior, consider using a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures that the ground beef BBQ recipe not only tastes incredible but also remains safe to consume.
Serving Suggestions and Tips for Storage
Serving Suggestions:
This mouthwatering Ground Beef BBQ meatloaf is best served warm, sliced into generous portions, and accompanied by a side of creamy mashed potatoes or crispy vegetables. For an extra touch, pair it with a refreshing coleslaw or a tangy barbecue sauce on the side. The savory glaze on top adds a delightful contrast in texture and flavor, making each bite irresistible.
Storage Tips:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices or portions. Ensure it’s cooled completely before refrigerating or freezing to maintain quality. Reheat thoroughly before serving to ensure a juicy and flavorful meatloaf every time.