Description
This Traeger pizza meatloaf is a delicious twist on traditional meatloaf, combining smoky beef, Italian seasonings, melty mozzarella, and zesty marinara sauce. Smoked low and slow, then finished with gooey cheese and pepperoni, it’s a must-try for pizza lovers and BBQ fans alike!
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup diced pepperoni
For the Topping:
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 10–12 slices pepperoni
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil (for garnish)
Instructions
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Preheat the Traeger: Set your smoker to 225°F and use wood like hickory, cherry, or oak for the best flavor. Let it preheat for about 15 minutes.
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Prepare the meatloaf mixture: In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, marinara sauce, mozzarella, and diced pepperoni. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork the meat.
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Shape the meatloaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on a foil-lined baking sheet or a grill-safe wire rack.
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Smoke the meatloaf: Place the meatloaf on the Traeger grates and smoke at 225°F for 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
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Add the toppings: Increase the temperature to 300°F. Spread the marinara sauce over the meatloaf, then top with shredded mozzarella and pepperoni slices. Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 160°F and the cheese is melted and bubbly (about 30 minutes).
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Rest & serve: Remove from the smoker and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm!
Notes
- For a crispier crust, sear the meatloaf on a hot grill or in a cast iron skillet before smoking.
- Want more pizza flavor? Add chopped black olives, mushrooms, or green peppers to the mix.
- Pairs well with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted veggies!