Traeger Pizza Meatloaf

Traeger Pizza Meatloaf: A Smoky, Cheesy Twist on Comfort Food 🍕🍖🔥

1. Introduction

Elevate your dinner game with Traeger Pizza Meatloaf, a creative and flavorful twist on traditional meatloaf that combines smoky wood-fired flavor with classic pizza ingredients like pepperoni, mozzarella, and marinara sauce. This dish is perfect for BBQ enthusiasts looking to infuse their meals with bold flavors while keeping preparation simple. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, potluck, or simply craving comfort food with a gourmet touch, this recipe delivers on taste and presentation.

Learn more about the benefits of using a Traeger grill by visiting this link. For tips on crafting the perfect meatloaf, explore our guide on juicy meatloaf techniques here.

2. What Is Traeger Pizza Meatloaf?

Traeger Pizza Meatloaf reimagines classic comfort food by blending ground beef, Italian seasonings, and pizza-inspired toppings, all cooked to perfection on a Traeger grill for a smoky finish. This unique dish transforms humble meatloaf into an exciting culinary experience, complete with gooey melted cheese, savory pepperoni, and a rich marinara glaze. It’s versatile enough to serve as a standalone main course or pair with sides like garlic bread, salads, or roasted veggies.

For more creative meal ideas, browse our collection of BBQ-inspired recipes here.

3. Ingredients List (Exact Measurements)

To create this mouthwatering Traeger Pizza Meatloaf, gather the following ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
• 1 cup marinara sauce (divided)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
• Optional: chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives

These carefully selected ingredients ensure your meatloaf will be packed with flavor and texture. For more ingredient ideas, explore our guide on creative cooking staples here.

4. Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 lbs of ground beef, 1/2 cup of marinara sauce, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of milk, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano and basil, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix gently with your hands until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender. Shape the mixture into a loaf on a sheet of aluminum foil or in a greased baking pan. For more prep tips, visit our guide on perfect meatloaf techniques here.

Setting Up the Traeger Grill

Preheat your Traeger grill to 375°F (190°C) using your preferred wood pellets—hickory or mesquite for bold smokiness, or applewood for a milder, sweeter flavor. Place the meatloaf directly on the grill grates or in a cast-iron skillet for easier cleanup. For more grilling advice, explore our resource on wood-fired cooking tips here.

Grilling the Meatloaf

Smoke the meatloaf for 45 minutes, then brush the remaining 1/2 cup of marinara sauce over the top. Continue cooking for another 15–20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness. Avoid opening the grill too often to maintain consistent heat. For more grilling tips, browse our collection of smoked comfort food ideas here.

Adding Toppings

Remove the meatloaf from the grill and top with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup of sliced pepperoni. Return to the grill for an additional 5–10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving to allow the juices to redistribute. For topping inspiration, explore our guide on customizable pizza flavors here.

5. Customizing Your Pizza Meatloaf

To make your Traeger Pizza Meatloaf truly unique, consider these customizations:

• Protein Swaps: Substitute ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter option.
• Pizza Toppings: Experiment with sausage crumbles, caramelized onions, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts.
• Creamy Layer: Add a layer of ricotta cheese inside the meatloaf for extra creaminess.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage for added heat.

These tweaks ensure the recipe suits diverse tastes and dietary needs. For more customization ideas, check out our easy recipe swaps here.

6. Serving Suggestions

This smoky meatloaf pairs beautifully with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a refreshing contrast, serve it alongside a fresh arugula salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette. Offer dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or pesto for added flavor. For more pairing ideas, browse our collection of family-friendly meals here.

7. Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is highly adaptable:

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of regular breadcrumbs.
• Low-Carb Version: Omit breadcrumbs and add grated zucchini or cauliflower rice for binding.
• Vegan Alternative: Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat and use dairy-free cheese for a fully vegan version.

These variations ensure everyone can enjoy the dish. For more substitution ideas, check out our healthy swaps here.

8. Nutritional Information

Each serving of Traeger Pizza Meatloaf contains approximately 350 calories. Here’s the macronutrient breakdown per serving:

• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fats: 20g
• Proteins: 25g

Please note these values may vary slightly based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used. Enjoy responsibly!

9. FAQs Section

Here are answers to some common questions about this recipe:

Q: Can I bake this meatloaf in the oven instead of a Traeger grill?

Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 1–1.5 hours, following the same steps for adding toppings. Adjust cooking time as needed based on your oven’s performance.

Q: Why is my meatloaf dry?

Dry meatloaf often results from overmixing the meat or using lean ground beef. Stick to an 80/20 blend for juiciness and handle the mixture gently during preparation.

Q: Can I freeze this meatloaf?

Absolutely! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating in the oven or microwave.

Q: What type of wood pellets should I use?

Hickory or mesquite pellets provide bold smokiness, while applewood or cherry pellets offer a milder, sweeter flavor. Choose based on your preference for intensity.

10. Conclusion

Making Traeger Pizza Meatloaf is a simple yet rewarding way to elevate your dinner menu with bold, comforting flavors. With its smoky aroma, cheesy toppings, and endless customization options, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you stick to the original recipe or experiment with your own twists, this meatloaf promises to delight everyone who tries it.

We’d love to see your creations! Share your photos on social media using the hashtag #TraegerPizzaMeatloaf and tag us for a chance to be featured. Have feedback or questions? Leave a comment below—we’re here to help! For more easy grilling recipes, explore our collection of wood-fired cooking inspiration here. Happy grilling! 🍕🍖🔥

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