Jack’d Up Smoked Meatloaf
Introduction
If you’re looking to elevate your weeknight dinner game, this Jack’d Up Smoked Meatloaf is just the ticket. Combining the classic comfort of meatloaf with the rich, smoky flavors of your favorite wood, this dish takes a familiar recipe and gives it a delicious twist. Picture this: a savory blend of ground beef, zesty spices, and gooey pepper jack cheese, all infused with the deep, aromatic notes of Jack Daniels whiskey. It’s a hearty meal that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.
What makes this meatloaf truly special is the way it’s prepared. Instead of baking it in the oven, we’re smoking it low and slow, which imparts a depth of flavor that’s simply unmatched. The process may take some time, but the result is a mouthwatering loaf with a beautifully caramelized crust and a tender, juicy interior. Plus, you can spend those hours enjoying the great outdoors while your meatloaf takes on that fantastic smoky goodness.
And let’s not forget the finishing touch: a homemade Jack Daniels sauce that’s sweet, tangy, and just a bit spicy. It’s the perfect glaze to complement the richness of the meatloaf, making every bite an unforgettable experience. So, fire up that smoker and get ready to impress your family and friends with this elevated comfort food classic!
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 pounds ground beef (at least 85/15 fat content)
- ½ cup panko bread crumbs
- ½ medium red onion (grated)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 eggs (lightly beaten)
- 2 tablespoons Jack Daniels whiskey
- 2 tablespoons Hey Grill Hey Beef Rub (or your favorite beef or steak seasoning)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ cup milk
- 6 oz pepper jack cheese (cut into strips)
For the Jack Daniels Meatloaf Sauce:
- ½ cup ketchup
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup Jack Daniels whiskey
- 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat the Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 225 degrees F. This meatloaf is awesome with hickory or oak wood.
- Make the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, add all the ingredients for the meatloaf. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Don’t overwork the meat, or your meatloaf will be tough and chewy.
- Assemble the Meatloaf: Spread half of the meatloaf mixture on the bottom of a grill basket. Layer the pepper jack cheese on top of the meatloaf, leaving about an inch of meat on all sides. Top with the remaining meatloaf mixture and press the edges together to seal completely. Any exposed holes will cause the cheese to leak out while cooking.
- Add the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the ingredients for the sauce and then pour it over the top of the meatloaf, letting it run down the sides a little bit.
- Smoke the Meatloaf: Place the meatloaf on the smoker, close the lid, and smoke for 4 hours or until the internal temperature reads 165 degrees F.
- Enjoy: Remove the meatloaf from the smoker. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Jack’d Up Smoked Meatloaf
If you’re looking to elevate your weeknight dinner game, this Jack’d Up Smoked Meatloaf is just the ticket. Combining the classic comfort of meatloaf with the rich, smoky flavors of your favorite wood, this dish takes a familiar recipe and gives it a delicious twist. Picture this: a savory blend of ground beef, zesty spices, and gooey pepper jack cheese, all infused with the deep, aromatic notes of Jack Daniels whiskey. It’s a hearty meal that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 pounds ground beef (at least 85/15 fat content)
- ½ cup panko bread crumbs
- ½ medium red onion (grated)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 eggs (lightly beaten)
- 2 tablespoons Jack Daniels whiskey
- 2 tablespoons Hey Grill Hey Beef Rub (or your favorite beef or steak seasoning)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ cup milk
- 6 oz pepper jack cheese (cut into strips)
For the Jack Daniels Meatloaf Sauce:
- ½ cup ketchup
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup Jack Daniels whiskey
- 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat the Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 225 degrees F. This meatloaf is awesome with hickory or oak wood.
- Make the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, add all the ingredients for the meatloaf. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Don’t overwork the meat, or your meatloaf will be tough and chewy.
- Assemble the Meatloaf: Spread half of the meatloaf mixture on the bottom of a grill basket. Layer the pepper jack cheese on top of the meatloaf, leaving about an inch of meat on all sides. Top with the remaining meatloaf mixture and press the edges together to seal completely. Any exposed holes will cause the cheese to leak out while cooking.
- Add the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the ingredients for the sauce and then pour it over the top of the meatloaf, letting it run down the sides a little bit.
- Smoke the Meatloaf: Place the meatloaf on the smoker, close the lid, and smoke for 4 hours or until the internal temperature reads 165 degrees F.
- Enjoy: Remove the meatloaf from the smoker. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6