Traeger pizza meatloaf: Prepare to have your weeknight dinner routine revolutionized! Imagine the comforting, savory goodness of a classic meatloaf, infused with the irresistible flavors of your favorite pizza. Yes, you read that right! This isn’t your grandma’s meatloaf; it’s a culinary mashup that will have everyone begging for seconds.

While the exact origins of combining meatloaf and pizza are shrouded in delicious mystery, the concept speaks to our inherent love of comfort food and creative cooking. Meatloaf, a staple in many cultures, represents home-cooked goodness and family gatherings. Pizza, with its customizable toppings and universally appealing flavors, is a symbol of fun and casual dining. Marrying these two iconic dishes creates a symphony of flavors that’s both familiar and exciting.

What makes this Traeger pizza meatloaf so special? It’s the perfect blend of textures the tender, juicy meatloaf base, the gooey, melted cheese, and the slightly crispy pepperoni topping. The Traeger grill adds a subtle smoky flavor that elevates the dish to a whole new level. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! You can prep it ahead of time and simply pop it on the grill when you’re ready to eat. The combination of savory meat, tangy tomato sauce, and melted cheese is simply irresistible, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

2 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
1 lb Ground Italian Sausage (sweet or mild, your preference!)
1 cup Breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
1/2 cup Milk (any kind will do)
1 large Egg, lightly beaten
1/2 cup Onion, finely chopped
2 cloves Garlic, minced
1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
2 tablespoons Olive Oil
1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
1 teaspoon Dried Basil
1/2 teaspoon Salt
1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper

For the Pizza Topping:

1 (15 ounce) can Pizza Sauce
1 1/2 cups Mozzarella Cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Pepperoni slices
1/4 cup Black Olives, sliced
1/4 cup Green Bell Pepper, diced (optional)
1/4 cup Red Onion, thinly sliced (optional)
Fresh Basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture:

Sauté the Aromatics: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Remove from heat and let cool slightly. This step is crucial for developing a deep, savory flavor in the meatloaf.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk and the beaten egg. Whisk them together until well combined. This mixture will help bind the meatloaf and keep it moist.
Soak the Breadcrumbs: Add the breadcrumbs to the milk and egg mixture. Let them soak for a few minutes, about 5 minutes, to soften. This will prevent the meatloaf from being too dense.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, combine the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. This ensures even distribution of the spices throughout the meatloaf.
Mix Everything Together: Add the ground beef, ground Italian sausage, sautéed onion and garlic mixture, Parmesan cheese, and the spice mixture to the bowl with the breadcrumb mixture. Gently mix everything together with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can result in a tough meatloaf.

Forming the Meatloaf:

Prepare the Pan: Lightly grease a loaf pan (approximately 9×5 inches) with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. I prefer parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Shape the Meatloaf: Gently transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Press it down evenly to fill the pan. You can also shape the meatloaf freeform on a baking sheet if you prefer, but I find the loaf pan helps it retain its shape and moisture.

Applying the Pizza Topping:

Spread the Sauce: Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Make sure to cover the entire surface.
Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the pizza sauce. Don’t be shy with the cheese!
Arrange the Toppings: Arrange the pepperoni slices, black olives, and any other desired toppings (like diced green bell pepper and thinly sliced red onion) over the cheese. Get creative with your toppings!

Smoking the Meatloaf on the Traeger:

Preheat the Traeger: Preheat your Traeger grill to 250°F (121°C). I recommend using a blend of wood pellets that complements the flavors of the meatloaf and pizza, such as hickory, oak, or a blend of both.
Place the Meatloaf on the Grill: Carefully place the loaf pan with the meatloaf directly on the grill grates.
Smoke the Meatloaf: Smoke the meatloaf for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate temperature readings. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the meatloaf and the accuracy of your grill’s temperature.
Increase the Temperature (Optional): For the last 15-20 minutes of cooking, you can increase the grill temperature to 350°F (177°C) to help the cheese melt and brown nicely. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Rest the Meatloaf: Once the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C), remove it from the grill and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.

Slicing and Serving:

Remove from Pan: If you used parchment paper, lift the meatloaf out of the loaf pan using the overhang. If you didn’t use parchment paper, carefully run a knife around the edges of the meatloaf to loosen it from the pan before inverting it onto a cutting board.
Slice and Serve: Slice the meatloaf into thick slices and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.

Tips and Variations:

Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
Meat Variations: You can substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for the ground beef, but keep in mind that these leaner meats may result in a drier meatloaf. Consider adding a little extra olive oil or milk to compensate.
Vegetable Additions: Add finely diced vegetables like carrots, celery, or zucchini to the meatloaf mixture for added nutrients and flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture or pizza sauce for a spicy kick.
Bacon Topping: For an extra decadent treat, top the meatloaf with cooked bacon slices before baking.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
Wood Pellet Choice: Experiment with different wood pellet flavors to find your favorite combination. Applewood pellets can add a subtle sweetness, while mesquite pellets can add a bolder, smokier flavor.
Internal Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it on the Traeger.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve with a side of garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks.
Pair with a simple salad or roasted vegetables.
Make meatloaf sandwiches with leftover slices.
Serve with a dollop of ricotta cheese on top.

Storage Instructions:

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheat in the microwave, oven, or on the grill.
Meatloaf can also be frozen for longer storage. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or store in a freezer-safe container. Frozen meatloaf can be stored for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! This Traeger pizza meatloaf recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s a flavor explosion that combines the comforting familiarity of meatloaf with the fun and vibrant taste of pizza, all enhanced by the smoky kiss of your Traeger grill. Trust me, your family and friends will be begging you to make it again and again. Why is this a must-try? Well, first and foremost, it’s incredibly delicious. The combination of savory ground meat, tangy tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, and your favorite pizza toppings creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Secondly, it’s surprisingly easy to make. The hands-on time is minimal, and the Traeger does most of the work, leaving you free to relax and enjoy the aroma wafting from your grill. Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, this Traeger pizza meatloaf is guaranteed to be a hit. It’s a unique and unexpected dish that will leave a lasting impression on your guests. But the fun doesn’t stop there! This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking. Feel free to experiment with different types of ground meat, such as ground turkey or ground chicken, for a lighter option. You can also swap out the mozzarella cheese for provolone, cheddar, or even a blend of Italian cheeses. And, of course, the toppings are entirely up to you! Pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, peppers, olives the possibilities are endless. For serving suggestions, I love to slice this Traeger pizza meatloaf and serve it with a side of garlic bread and a fresh garden salad. It’s also fantastic served on toasted buns as a meatloaf sandwich, complete with your favorite pizza toppings and a drizzle of marinara sauce. Another great option is to cut it into cubes and serve it as an appetizer with a side of dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing. Looking for variations? Consider adding a layer of ricotta cheese between the meatloaf and the toppings for an extra creamy and decadent touch. You could also incorporate some chopped vegetables, such as zucchini or spinach, into the meatloaf mixture for added nutrients and flavor. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture or sprinkle some crushed red pepper on top of the pizza toppings. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own! That’s the beauty of cooking it’s all about experimenting and finding what you love. I truly believe that this Traeger pizza meatloaf will become a new family favorite. It’s a fun, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. So, fire up your Traeger, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience a taste sensation that you won’t soon forget. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! And I can’t wait to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What toppings did you use? What did your family and friends think? Please share your thoughts and photos in the comments below. I love seeing your creations and hearing your feedback. Happy grilling! Let me know what you think of this Traeger pizza meatloaf! Print