BBQ Cheddar Meatloaf

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If you think meatloaf is just a bland weeknight fallback, think again. This BBQ Cheddar Meatloaf takes everything you love about comfort food and kicks it up with sweet and tangy barbecue glaze, melty cheddar cheese, and just the right amount of savory seasonings. It’s tender, juicy, and topped with a sticky, caramelized BBQ topping that makes you want seconds before you finish your first slice.

Whether you’re serving this up for Sunday dinner or meal prepping for the week, this cheddar-stuffed classic is both satisfying and crave-worthy. It’s an easy bake-and-forget recipe that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and delivers on flavor every time. Get ready for a meatloaf makeover that might just become a family tradition.

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What Kind of BBQ Sauce Should I Use?

For this BBQ Cheddar Meatloaf, you want a sauce that strikes the right balance between smoky, sweet, and tangy. A thick Kansas City-style BBQ sauce works beautifully because it clings to the meatloaf and caramelizes well. If you like heat, go for a spicy chipotle blend. Prefer it sweet and mild? A honey BBQ sauce is perfect. You can even mix your own by blending ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and a dash of hot sauce.

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Ingredients for the BBQ Cheddar Meatloaf

• Ground Beef – The heart of the dish, providing the rich, meaty base.
• Cheddar Cheese – Adds melty pockets of sharp, creamy flavor throughout.
• BBQ Sauce – Both mixed in and used as a glaze, it gives a deep tangy sweetness.
• Breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meatloaf together for a perfect slice.
• Eggs – Essential for holding everything in place.
• Onion – Finely chopped for added flavor and a bit of texture.
• Garlic – Because meatloaf without garlic is a missed opportunity.
• Milk – Keeps the loaf moist and tender inside.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami depth that ties everything together.
• Parsley – For a fresh pop of color and brightness.
• Salt & Pepper – To season every bite just right.

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How To Make the BBQ Cheddar Meatloaf

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan if you prefer a traditional shape.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and half of the BBQ sauce. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix just until combined—don’t overwork it or it may become tough.

Step 3: Add the Cheddar

Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese. Make sure it’s evenly distributed so you get cheesy goodness in every bite.

Step 4: Shape the Loaf

Transfer the meat mixture to your prepared baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf if using a sheet. Press gently to form a cohesive shape.

Step 5: Glaze Generously

Spread the remaining BBQ sauce over the top of the meatloaf, making sure to coat it completely. This will create that sticky, caramelized crust we all crave.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). If using a loaf pan, you may need to bake slightly longer.

Step 7: Rest and Garnish

Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after removing from the oven. This keeps it juicy and makes slicing easier. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.

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How to Serve and Store BBQ Cheddar Meatloaf

This BBQ Cheddar Meatloaf is a meal in itself, but it really shines when paired with comfort sidekicks like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted green beans, or buttery corn on the cob. Slice it thick and drizzle with extra warmed BBQ sauce for that irresistible glossy finish. For a fun twist, serve leftovers on toasted sandwich rolls with pickles and crispy onions—an instant BBQ meatloaf sandwich win.

When it comes to storing, let the meatloaf cool completely before wrapping it tightly in foil or transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through. You can also freeze slices individually for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of ground beef should I use?

Opt for 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and moisture. Too lean and your meatloaf could dry out.

Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar adds sharpness and meltiness, feel free to swap in Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.

How do I know when the meatloaf is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should read 160°F (71°C). If you’re baking in a loaf pan, give it a few extra minutes.

What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?

You can substitute crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked rice in a pinch. Just make sure the mixture holds together well.

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the loaf up to a day in advance and refrigerate it, covered. Add the glaze just before baking.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely. The BBQ glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness and tang without overwhelming spice, making it a hit with picky eaters.

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Want More Dinner Ideas with Big Flavor?

If you loved this BBQ Cheddar Meatloaf, these savory dishes will be right up your alley:

• Try this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli for a cheesy, comforting pasta night.
• These Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta bites are quick, easy, and flavor-packed.
• Warm up with a bowl of Creamy Shrimp Chowder for seafood comfort that feels like a hug in a bowl.
• Don’t miss the Garlic Parmesan Beef Spaghetti Pasta for another weeknight favorite with hearty meat and noodles.
• And for a cheesy twist, check out the Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage — a dump-and-go slow cooker gem.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so you can come back to it anytime: Life with Nina on Pinterest.

I’d love to hear how yours turned out. Did you go with sharp cheddar or mix it up with another cheese? Any extra glaze on top?

Let’s swap tips in the comments—we’re all here to cook smarter and tastier together.

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