The aroma of sizzling meatloaf wafts through the air, mingling with the tangy scent of tomato sauce and melting cheese. Imagine biting into a juicy slice of Traeger Pizza Meatloaf—every bite exploding with flavors that remind you of your favorite pizza night. It’s the kind of dish that makes your kitchen feel like a warm embrace, perfect for gathering friends or enjoying a cozy family dinner.
Remember those days when dinner was about more than just food? The laughter, the stories shared, and the delightful chaos that comes from trying to juggle multiple dishes at once. This Traeger Pizza Meatloaf Recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of good times! Whether you’re hosting a game day party, looking for an easy weeknight dinner, or simply craving comfort food, this dish promises to make your taste buds dance with joy! fajita quesadilla pairing.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Traeger Pizza Meatloaf offers a unique twist on classic comfort food; it’s super easy to prepare and packed with irresistible flavors.
- The vibrant colors and cheesy goodness make it visually appealing on any dinner table.
- Perfect for feeding a crowd or customizing to individual tastes, it’s a versatile dish that everyone will love!
Ingredients for Traeger Pizza Meatloaf Recipe
For more inspiration, check out this Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a juicy meatloaf without being too greasy—aim for about 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio.
- Italian Seasoning: This blend brings authentic pizza flavors to your meatloaf; choose your favorite brand or mix your own!
- Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatloaf while keeping it moist; plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs work well.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The star ingredient that melts beautifully, adding gooey goodness to every slice.
- Pizza Sauce: A generous amount elevates the flavor profile; you can use store-bought or homemade sauce depending on your preference.
For the Topping:
- Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle this on top before cooking for an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful crust.
- Sliced Pepperoni: Add these on top for that classic pizza experience; they crisp up nicely while baking.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Traeger Pizza Meatloaf Recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Traeger Grill
Set your Traeger grill to preheat at 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, get ready to mix those tasty ingredients!
Step 2: Mix Ingredients Together
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian seasoning, breadcrumbs, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the pizza sauce. Use your hands (or a spoon if you’re fancy) to mix until just combined—don’t overdo it!
Step 3: Shape Your Meatloaf
Transfer the mixture onto parchment paper or directly onto the grill grates if you’re feeling adventurous. Shape it into a loaf form—think of it as creating a meaty masterpiece.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese
Spread the remaining pizza sauce over the top of your meatloaf. Then sprinkle with the rest of the mozzarella cheese and top with sliced pepperoni and Parmesan cheese for that pizza-like finish.
Step 5: Grill It Up
Place your assembled meatloaf in your preheated Traeger. Close the lid and let it cook for about one hour or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). Your kitchen will smell like an Italian pizzeria—prepare yourself!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked through, remove from the grill and let it rest for about five minutes before slicing. Serve hot with extra pizza sauce on the side for dipping—or just go wild and pour it all over!
Now that you’ve mastered this incredible Traeger Pizza Meatloaf Recipe, prepare for compliments from friends and family alike. sweet fruit salad dessert Each slice combines comfort food nostalgia with flavorful excitement that’s hard to resist!
You Must Know
- This Traeger pizza meatloaf recipe combines the classic comfort of meatloaf with the smoky, cheesy goodness of pizza.
- It’s a fun twist that makes dinner exciting.
- With its blend of spices and toppings, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your Traeger grill to 350°F while mixing your meatloaf ingredients. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it on the grill grate. Cook for about one hour, adding cheese and toppings in the last 10 minutes for gooey perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack, and add your favorite pizza toppings, such as bell peppers or olives, to personalize your meatloaf masterpiece.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover Traeger pizza meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through, ensuring the cheese stays melty and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a juicy meatloaf, avoid overmixing the meat; just combine until blended.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes after cooking to maintain moisture.
- Try using parchment paper on the grill for easy cleanup.
I remember the first time I made this Traeger pizza meatloaf. My kids were skeptical at first, but once they took a bite, their eyes lit up! It quickly became a staple in our household and even earned me some serious kitchen cred among my friends.
FAQs:
What is a Traeger Pizza Meatloaf Recipe?
The Traeger Pizza Meatloaf Recipe combines the comforting flavors of traditional meatloaf with delicious pizza ingredients. This dish features ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, cheese, and pizza sauce, all smoked to perfection on a Traeger grill. bruschetta pasta recipe The combination of smoky flavor and classic pizza toppings creates a unique and mouth-watering meal that is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. For more inspiration, check out this Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf recipe.
How do I prepare the Traeger Pizza Meatloaf?
To prepare the Traeger Pizza Meatloaf, start by preheating your Traeger grill to 350°F. In a large bowl, mix together ground meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, pizza sauce, and your favorite pizza toppings like pepperoni or bell peppers. Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on the grill grate. Smoke the meatloaf until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F for safe consumption.
Can I customize my Traeger Pizza Meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can customize your Traeger Pizza Meatloaf by adding different ingredients like vegetables, spices, and cheeses. Consider using Italian sausage for added flavor or incorporating fresh herbs like basil and oregano. You can also change the type of cheese or try different sauces to make this recipe your own while still keeping it delicious.
How long does it take to cook the Traeger Pizza Meatloaf?
Cooking the Traeger Pizza Meatloaf typically takes about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes at a temperature of 350°F. It’s crucial to monitor the internal temperature with a meat thermometer, aiming for 160°F. Cooking times may vary based on the size of your meatloaf and your specific grill model, so always check for doneness.
Conclusion for Traeger Pizza Meatloaf Recipe:
In summary, the Traeger Pizza Meatloaf Recipe presents a delightful fusion of classic meatloaf and beloved pizza flavors. With simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Caprese salad side dish Customizable options allow you to personalize it according to your taste preferences. Enjoy the smoky goodness from your Traeger grill while serving up a hearty meal that will satisfy everyone at the table!
Traeger Pizza Meatloaf
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Traeger Pizza Meatloaf is a delightful fusion of classic meatloaf and pizza flavors, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This savory dish features juicy ground beef mixed with Italian seasoning, gooey mozzarella cheese, and zesty pizza sauce, all grilled to perfection on your Traeger. Topped with crispy pepperoni and Parmesan cheese, every slice delivers a burst of flavor that will transport you straight to pizza night bliss. Easy to prepare and customize, this recipe is destined to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef (80/20)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your Traeger grill to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, Italian seasoning, breadcrumbs, half the mozzarella cheese, and half the pizza sauce until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on parchment paper or directly on the grill grates.
- Spread remaining pizza sauce over the meatloaf and top with the rest of the mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices, and Parmesan cheese.
- Grill for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving with extra pizza sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 140g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Leave a Comment