Moist Smoked Meatloaf

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 medium onion, (diced)
• 1/2 cup green bell peppers, (finely chopped )
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 3/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg, (lightly beaten )
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1-1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tablespoon beef bouillon powder (or 1 cube (optional))
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4-1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper ((optional))
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar, (lightly packed)

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your smoker according to the manufacturer's instructions to 225-250°F (107-121°C). (I used a pellet grill for this recipe.)

2. 2

   Line a baking or cookie sheet pan with foil paper and top it with a cookie rack. Set aside.

3. 3

   Pour about 1 tablespoon of oil into a small-medium saucepan and heat it on medium.

4. 4

   Add onions, garlic, thyme, and bell pepper. Saute for a minute or two to let the flavors bloom; be careful not to burn it. Let it cool.

5. 5

   Mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, beef bouillon powder, milk, and cayenne pepper (if using) in a medium bowl. Add the cooled onion mixture. Mix it gently until everything is thoroughly combined. DO NOT OVERMIX.

6. 6

   Form the meatloaf like a log on a smooth surface, then transfer the meatloaf to a rack. Glaze with about ⅔ of the ketchup mixture.

7. 7

   Place the meatloaf in the smoker (or pellet grill) and smoke for 2-3 hours or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center registers 160°F (71°C).

8. 8

   While the meatloaf is smoking, prepare the glaze by mixing the ketchup, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar in a small bowl.

9. 9

   Once the meatloaf has reached the desired internal temperature, brush the glaze over the top and let it smoke for 10-15 more minutes so the glaze caramelizes.

10. 10

    Remove the smoked meatloaf from the pellet smoker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.