Ingredients
Scale
- For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (divided)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup sliced pepperoni
- Optional: chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives
Instructions
- Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ½ cup marinara sauce, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. 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 a greased baking pan.
- Setting Up the Traeger Grill: Preheat your Traeger grill to 375°F (190°C) using your preferred wood pellets (hickory or mesquite work well for a smoky flavor). Place the meatloaf on the grill grates or in a cast-iron skillet for easier cleanup.
- Grilling the Meatloaf: Smoke the meatloaf for 45 minutes, then brush the remaining ½ cup of marinara sauce over the top. Continue cooking for another 15–20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Adding Toppings: Remove the meatloaf from the grill and top with shredded mozzarella cheese and pepperoni slices. Return to the grill for an additional 5–10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a 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.
- Storage tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (1/6th of the recipe)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg