Smoky BBQ Meatloaf Stuffed is a delicious and hearty dish that brings comfort to any dinner table. This recipe features vibrant bell peppers stuffed with a smoky BBQ meatloaf mixture, perfectly topped with melted cheese. Each bite is a fusion of flavors that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re a fan of traditional barbecue or looking for an easy smoky BBQ meatloaf recipe, this dish has it all. The combination of spices and savory ingredients creates a tangy BBQ meatloaf experience that’s not only satisfying but also a delightful way to enjoy American cuisine.
Why You’ll Love This Smoky BBQ Meatloaf Stuffed
You’ll adore this Smoky BBQ Meatloaf Stuffed for its rich flavors and comforting nature. The combination of tender bell peppers and a savory meatloaf mixture creates a delightful balance that is perfect for any dinner. Plus, it’s an easy smoky BBQ meatloaf recipe that brings the essence of American cuisine right to your kitchen.
Not only does this dish offer a satisfying meal, but it also serves as a canvas for creativity. You can easily customize it with various fillings, making it an ideal option for family dinners. The BBQ-infused meatloaf is accented with spices that enhance its smoky flavor, ensuring every bite is bursting with taste. Dive in and discover why this dish is a favorite for gatherings and weeknight meals alike!

Ingredients for Smoky BBQ Meatloaf Stuffed
Gather these items:
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), tops removed and seeds discarded
- 1.1 pounds ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup smoky barbecue sauce, divided
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Smoky BBQ Meatloaf Stuffed Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare the baking dish by lightly coating it with oil or nonstick spray.
- Step 2: Prepare the bell peppers by slicing off the tops, removing the seeds and membranes, and setting them aside.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, whole milk, parsley, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and 1/4 cup of barbecue sauce. Mix until just incorporated, being careful not to overmix.
- Step 4: Stuff each pepper evenly with the meat mixture, gently mounding it at the top, and arrange them upright in the prepared baking dish.
- Step 5: Brush the tops of each stuffed pepper with 2 tablespoons of the remaining barbecue sauce, then loosely cover the dish with foil.
- Step 6: Bake the covered peppers on the middle rack for 35 minutes, then remove the foil.
- Step 7: Brush the peppers with the remaining barbecue sauce and top each one with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Step 8: Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and the peppers are tender.
- Step 9: Allow the stuffed peppers to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Smoky BBQ Meatloaf Stuffed
To achieve the best results with your Smoky BBQ Meatloaf Stuffed, consider using any color bell peppers you prefer. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the visual appeal of your dish. For those who enjoy a little heat, adding red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture gives it a delightful kick, making it a memorable BBQ Stuffed Meatloaf.
Remember, the baking method is crucial. Make sure to cover the dish with foil during the initial baking time to retain moisture and flavor. Uncovering it later allows the cheese to melt beautifully, creating a deliciously savory meatloaf with a smoky flavor that everyone will love. Enjoy the process and make this Smoky Meatloaf Recipe a staple in your kitchen!

Best Ways to Serve Smoky BBQ Meatloaf Stuffed
When it comes to serving your Smoky BBQ Meatloaf Stuffed, the options are delightful and varied. I love pairing it with a fresh side salad that complements the rich flavors of the meatloaf. A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette works beautifully, cutting through the savory profile. Alternatively, creamy mashed potatoes serve as a comforting side that balances the dish’s smoky essence.
For a twist, consider offering a side of roasted vegetables, which add color and nutrition to your meal. If you want to elevate your experience, drizzling some extra BBQ-infused meatloaf sauce over the top creates a deliciously tangy finish. Each serving can be customized to suit your family’s tastes, making this Tangy BBQ Meatloaf a versatile option for any dinner table!
How to Store and Reheat Smoky BBQ Meatloaf Stuffed
Storing your leftover Smoky BBQ Meatloaf Stuffed is easy and convenient! Simply place the stuffed peppers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This method ensures that the flavors remain intact while making meal prep a breeze for busy weeknights.
When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious BBQ Stuffed Meatloaf again, reheating is simple. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish. Cover them with foil to prevent drying out and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. If you prefer, you can also microwave them for a quicker option, heating in 1-minute intervals until hot. This way, you can savor the smoky flavor of your Smoky Meatloaf Recipe with ease!
Frequently Asked Questions About Smoky BBQ Meatloaf Stuffed
What is smoky BBQ meatloaf stuffed?
Smoky BBQ Meatloaf Stuffed is a flavorful dish that features bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, spices, and BBQ sauce. Each pepper is topped with melted cheese, creating a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for family dinners.
How to cook smoky BBQ meatloaf stuffed?
To cook Smoky BBQ Meatloaf Stuffed, you will need to preheat the oven, prepare the peppers, and mix the meatloaf ingredients. Stuff the peppers with the mixture, bake covered, and finish with BBQ sauce and cheese for a delightful meal that brings the essence of American cuisine to your table.
Why choose smoky BBQ meatloaf for dinner?
Choosing Smoky BBQ Meatloaf Stuffed for dinner is a fantastic option because it combines rich flavors with the comfort of home-cooked meals. This dish is not only satisfying but also offers versatility with different fillings and spice levels, making it a favorite for gatherings and weeknight dinners alike!
Variations of Smoky BBQ Meatloaf Stuffed You Can Try
There are countless ways to customize your Smoky BBQ Meatloaf Stuffed to suit your taste preferences. One delightful option is to experiment with different cheeses. Adding a blend of cheeses, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, can enhance the creaminess and flavor profile of your dish. For those who love a bit of heat, consider stuffing your meatloaf with jalapeños for a spicy kick!
Additionally, incorporating various vegetables into the meatloaf mixture can elevate your meal. Chopped spinach, grated carrots, or even diced zucchini can add nutrition and a burst of flavor. If you’re looking to switch things up, try using different meats like ground turkey or chicken for a lighter, low-fat alternative. This not only keeps the dish healthy but also introduces a new twist to the classic BBQ-infused meatloaf.
Feel free to get creative with spices and seasonings as well. Adding herbs like thyme or basil can enhance the savory notes, making your Smoky Meatloaf Recipe even more delightful. No matter how you decide to customize your BBQ Stuffed Meatloaf, the possibilities are endless, ensuring a delicious meal every time!
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Smoky BBQ Meatloaf Stuffed: 7 Irresistible Comfort Bites
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A delicious and hearty dish featuring bell peppers stuffed with a smoky BBQ meatloaf mixture, topped with melted cheese.
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), tops removed and seeds discarded
- 1.1 pounds ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup smoky barbecue sauce, divided
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare the baking dish by lightly coating it with oil or nonstick spray.
- Prepare the bell peppers by slicing off the tops, removing the seeds and membranes, and setting them aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, whole milk, parsley, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and 1/4 cup of barbecue sauce. Mix until just incorporated, being careful not to overmix.
- Stuff each pepper evenly with the meat mixture, gently mounding it at the top, and arrange them upright in the prepared baking dish.
- Brush the tops of each stuffed pepper with 2 tablespoons of the remaining barbecue sauce, then loosely cover the dish with foil.
- Bake the covered peppers on the middle rack for 35 minutes, then remove the foil.
- Brush the peppers with the remaining barbecue sauce and top each one with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and the peppers are tender.
- Allow the stuffed peppers to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Feel free to use any color bell peppers according to your preference.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture.
- Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed pepper
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg






