This isn’t your grandmother’s meatloaf! Our version combines two types of meat with a sweet and tangy honey BBQ glaze that takes this comfort food classic to the next level.
THE PERFECT BLEND OF SWEET & SAVORY
What makes this meatloaf special? The combination of ground beef and pork creates an incredibly tender texture, while our homemade honey BBQ glaze adds an irresistible sweet-and-tangy finish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Why use two types of meat?
The combination of ground beef and pork creates the perfect balance – the beef provides rich flavor while the pork adds moisture and tenderness.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture up to 24 hours ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. Add the glaze just before baking.
What’s the secret to moist meatloaf?
Don’t overmix the ingredients – this keeps the texture tender. Also, the milk-soaked breadcrumbs and eggs help retain moisture during baking.
TIPS FOR SUCCESS:
Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness (160°F)
Let meatloaf rest 5-10 minutes before slicing
Don’t pack the meat too tightly in the pan
Reserve half the glaze for halfway through cooking
Line your loaf pan with parchment for easy removal
INGREDIENTS NEEDED: (FULL RECIPE BELOW)
Ground meats – beef and pork blend
Fresh breadcrumbs – better than dried
Eggs – bind everything together
Parmesan cheese – adds savory depth
Aromatics – onion, garlic, parsley
BBQ sauce – base for glaze
Honey – creates caramelization
Grape jelly – secret ingredient for shine
Seasonings – salt, pepper, herbs
HONEY BBQ MEATLOAF
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
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment, letting edges hang over.
- In a small skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes. Let cool completely.
- In a large bowl, combine eggs, milk, breadcrumbs, cheese, and seasonings. Let sit 5 minutes.
- Add meats and cooled onion mixture to bowl. Mix gently with hands until just combined – don’t overmix.
- Transfer to prepared pan, pressing gently to remove air pockets.
- Whisk together all glaze ingredients in a bowl.
- Spread 1/3 of glaze over meatloaf.
- Bake 45 minutes, then add another 1/3 of glaze.
- Continue baking 25-30 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Let rest 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with remaining glaze.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Prepare meatloaf up to 1 day ahead
- Storage: Keeps 3-4 days refrigerated
- Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 3 months
- Variations: Try different BBQ sauce flavors
- Serving: Excellent with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables
Have you tried this recipe with oats rather than breadcrumbs?