Smoking meatloaf is a great way to add an extra layer of deliciousness to your favorite dish. Not only does it infuse the ground beef with familiar smoky flavors, but smoking also helps lock in moisture and gives it a unique texture that really sets it apart from how you’d normally prepare it. Plus, smoking allows for endless opportunities for creativity when adding additional spices or herbs. But before you fire up the smoker, have you ever wondered just how long to smoke meatloaf? Well lucky for you, we’ve got some insight into what timeframes are best based on the desired result! Keep reading to find out!
Table of Contents
- 1 What is meatloaf?
- 2 Can you smoke meatloaf?
- 3 The healthy benefit of smoking meatloaf
- 4 How to make smoke meatloaf?
- 5 How long to smoke meatloaf?
- 6 What makes a good meatloaf recipe?
- 7 Tips for smoking meatloaf
- 8 What should i serve with smoked meatloaf?
- 9 How to store smoked meatloaf?
- 10 Some recipe ideas with smoked meatloaf
- 11 Conclusion: How long to smoke meatloaf?
- 12 FAQs Smoked meatloaf
- 12.1 Does meatloaf stall on smoker?
- 12.2 Can you freeze smoked meatloaf?
- 12.3 What are some sides to serve with smoked meatloaf?
- 12.4 How long does it take to cook a meatloaf on a pellet grill?
- 12.5 What can I do with leftovers?
- 12.6 What should the internal temperature of smoked meatloaf be?
- 12.7 How long does meatloaf take?
- 12.8 How can I make sure that my meatloaf is cooked correctly?
- 12.9 Can you overcook meatloaf?
- 12.10 How long does a 2 pound meatloaf take?
- 12.11 What is the secret to moist meatloaf?
- 12.12 What temperature do you cook meatloaf at 4 How long?
- 12.13 How long does it take to cook a 1lb meatloaf?
- 12.14 What is the maximum amount of time for cooling meatloaf?
What is meatloaf?
Meatloaf is a dish of ground beef, spices and other ingredients – such as onions, garlic, celery and sometimes even cheese – that are mixed together and shaped into a loaf. It is then cooked either in an oven or on the stovetop. Smoking meatloaf adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish and can also help keep it extra moist.

Can you smoke meatloaf?
Yes! Smoking is a great way to add flavor and moisture to your favorite meatloaf. If you’re thinking of smoking your next batch, it’s important to keep in mind how long you should smoke the meatloaf.
The time needed to properly smoke a meatloaf will vary depending on the type of smoker being used and how much meat is being smoked. For example, a smaller smoker will likely take less time to cook than a larger one.
The healthy benefit of smoking meatloaf
Smoking your meatloaf offers several health benefits that you don’t get with traditional baking. For one, smoking helps to reduce the fat content in your meatloaf by drawing out any excess liquid and fat particles.
This makes it a healthier alternative for anyone looking for lower-fat options. Additionally, the smoky flavor of smoked meatloaf and the added moisture help reduce the amount of extra fat and oils needed to keep it moist.

How to make smoke meatloaf?
The first step in how to make smoke meatloaf is to preheat your smoker. For the best results, get it up to a temperature between 225 and 250 degrees Fahrenheit. Once that’s done, you’ll need to mix together ground beef with any desired ingredients like onions, garlic, herbs and spices. Place the mixture onto a sheet of aluminum foil or an aluminum tray and shape it into a loaf. Next, place the meatloaf onto your preheated smoker and close the lid.
If you want it to develop a smokier flavor, increase the time by an extra hour or so. You can check the internal temperature of your meatloaf with a thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked before removing it from the smoker. When it reaches around 165 degrees Fahrenheit, your meatloaf is ready to be enjoyed!
How long to smoke meatloaf?
The amount of time it takes to smoke a meatloaf will depend on how thick the loaf is, how much fat content is in your ground beef, and how smoky you want the final product to be.
Generally speaking, it’s best to plan for around 3-5 hours of cooking time, but it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on the internal temperature of your meatloaf with a reliable thermometer. You’ll want to remove it from the smoker when it reaches an internal temperature of 165F for food safety reasons, regardless of how smoky you’d like it.
What makes a good meatloaf recipe?
A good meatloaf recipe is one that uses a combination of ground beef, pork and veal as this will help keep the meatloaf moist. It should also include some type of binding agent such as eggs, breadcrumbs or oatmeal to help it hold together during cooking. Finally, any desired herbs, spices or vegetables can be added to customize the flavor of your meatloaf. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
It should also include some type of binding agent such as eggs, breadcrumbs or oatmeal to help it hold together during cooking. Finally, any desired herbs, spices or vegetables can be added to customize the flavor of your meatloaf. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Tips for smoking meatloaf
• Always preheat your smoker before adding the meatloaf
• Use a good quality thermometer to ensure that it’s fully cooked before removing it from the smoker
• Add any desired herbs, spices and vegetables to customize the flavor of your dish
• Serve with classic side dishes like mashed potatoes or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
• Experiment with different types of binding agents like eggs, breadcrumbs or oatmeal to help it hold together during cooking.
• Take into account how thick the loaf is and how smoky you want it to be when deciding how long to smoke meatloaf.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to create a smoky masterpiece that’ll be sure to impress your family and friends. So before you fire up the smoker, keep these tips in mind for how long to smoke meatloaf and how to create an unforgettable meal.
What should i serve with smoked meatloaf?
Smoked meatloaf pairs well with a variety of sides, so you can get creative with how you want to serve it. Mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, and roasted root vegetables are all great options for side dishes. Some other classic accompaniments include macaroni and cheese, roasted Brussels sprouts, or even grilled corn on the cob.
Smoking meatloaf can add an extra layer of deliciousness to your favorite dish, and with the right technique you’ll be able to create a smoky masterpiece in no time. So before you fire up the smoker, keep these tips in mind for how long to smoke meatloaf and serve it alongside some tasty sides for a meal that your family and friends will love.
How to store smoked meatloaf?
Once your smoked meatloaf has cooled down completely, it should be stored in an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you’re wanting to save some for later, you can also freeze it in a resealable storage bag or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350F until it’s warmed through.

Smoked meatloaf is a delicious and creative way to take your favorite dish to the next level. Keep these tips in mind for how long to smoke meatloaf, how to store it and what side dishes pair best with it for a meal that your family and friends are sure to love. With a few simple ingredients and the right technique, you’ll be well on your way to creating an unforgettable dish.
Some recipe ideas with smoked meatloaf
• BBQ Bacon Wrapped Smoked Meatloaf: Wrap your meatloaf in bacon, smoke it and then brush with barbeque sauce for an extra smoky kick.
• Italian Smoked Meatloaf: Add mozzarella cheese, garlic, basil and oregano to give this classic dish a delicious Italian twist.
• Teriyaki Glazed Smoked Meatloaf: Brush your meatloaf with a teriyaki glaze for a unique Asian-inspired flavor.
• Smoked Meatloaf Sliders: Cut the meatloaf into small pieces and serve on slider buns with lettuce, tomato and your favorite condiments for an easy portable meal.
No matter how you choose to make it, smoked meatloaf can be a tasty and creative way to enjoy your favorite dish. So keep these tips in mind for how long to smoke meatloaf, how to store it and how to serve it with some delicious side dishes for an unforgettable meal.

Conclusion: How long to smoke meatloaf?
Smoked meatloaf is a delicious and creative way to take your favorite dish up a notch. With a few simple ingredients, the right technique and how long to smoke meatloaf, you’ll be well on your way to creating an unforgettable meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. So fire up the smoker and get creative with different recipes and sides – from BBQ Bacon Wrapped Smoked Meatloaf to Italian Smoked Meatloaf Sliders, the possibilities are endless.
See also: how to tell if meatloaf is done
FAQs Smoked meatloaf
Does meatloaf stall on smoker?
Yes, it can happen that the internal temperature of your meatloaf may stall on the smoker – this is especially common in thicker cuts of meat. To avoid this, try preheating your smoker to 275°F for about 10 minutes before smoking and monitoring the internal temperature with a digital thermometer throughout the cooking process.
Can you freeze smoked meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze smoked meatloaf. Once your meatloaf has cooled down completely, store it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to four days or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350F until it’s warmed through.
What are some sides to serve with smoked meatloaf?
Smoked meatloaf pairs nicely with a variety of side dishes from roasted vegetables to mashed potatoes or mac and cheese. You can also add some color and flavor by serving it alongside a fresh salad or creamy coleslaw.
How long does it take to cook a meatloaf on a pellet grill?
It usually takes around 60-90 minutes to cook a meatloaf on a pellet grill, depending on how thick the cut of meat is. Keep in mind that you should use a digital thermometer to monitor the internal temperature and make sure it reaches an internal temperature of at least 160°F before serving.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover smoked meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or wrapped tightly with plastic wrap and kept in the freezer for up to three m months. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350F until it’s warmed through. Alternatively, you can also use your leftover smoked meatloaf in a variety of recipes such as tacos, burritos, sandwiches and quesadillas.
What should the internal temperature of smoked meatloaf be?
The internal temperature of your smoked meatloaf should be at least 160°F before it’s safe to eat. To ensure that the meat is cooked properly, use a digital thermometer to monitor the internal temperature throughout the cooking process.
How long does meatloaf take?
It usually takes around 60-90 minutes to cook a meatloaf on a pellet grill, depending on how thick the cut of meat is. Keep in mind that you should use a digital thermometer to monitor the internal temperature and make sure it reaches an internal temperature of at least 160°F before serving.
How can I make sure that my meatloaf is cooked correctly?
The best way to make sure your smoked meatloaf is cooked correctly is to use a digital thermometer to monitor the internal temperature. Aim for an internal temperature of at least 160°F before serving. Additionally, you can also use a food thermometer or check the color of the juices to make sure it’s cooked through.
Can you overcook meatloaf?
Yes, it’s possible to overcook meatloaf. If you cook it for too long, the outside of your smoked meatloaf may dry out and become overly tough. To prevent this from happening, make sure to monitor the internal temperature with a digital thermometer throughout the cooking process.
How long does a 2 pound meatloaf take?
Generally speaking, a 2 pound meatloaf should take around 60-90 minutes to cook on a pellet grill. However, it’s important to use a digital thermometer to monitor the internal temperature and make sure it reaches an internal temperature of at least 160°F before serving.
What is the secret to moist meatloaf?
The secret to a moist and flavorful smoked meatloaf is to use quality ingredients, such as ground chuck or sirloin, and to add moisture in the form of eggs and vegetables. Additionally, it’s important to ensure that your meatloaf is cooked through by using a digital thermometer to monitor the internal temperature throughout the cooking process.
What temperature do you cook meatloaf at 4 How long?
The cooking temperature for smoked meatloaf should be around 225°F-300°F and it usually takes around 60-90 minutes to cook, depending on how thick the cut of meat is. Make sure to monitor the internal temperature with a digital thermometer throughout the cooking process and make sure it reaches an internal temperature of at least 160°F before serving.
How long does it take to cook a 1lb meatloaf?
It usually takes around 45-60 minutes to cook a 1lb meatloaf on a pellet grill. Keep in mind that you should use a digital thermometer to monitor the internal temperature and make sure it reaches an internal temperature of at least 160°F before serving.
What is the maximum amount of time for cooling meatloaf?
The cooling time for smoked meatloaf is not too critical, as long as you let it cool down to a food-safe temperature before serving. Allow the meatloaf to cool for about 10 minutes before cutting into it, and make sure that any leftovers are stored in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Echo Reed is the owner and head chef of darkhorse restaurant. She has been working in the culinary world for over a decade, and opened her own establishment in 2018. Echo is known for her unique style and approach to cooking, which has won her critical acclaim from food critics and diners alike.