A delicious twist on a classic meatloaf combines smoky barbecue flavors with a bright hint of lemon for a refreshing finish. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Prep Time10 min
Cook Time45 min
Total Time55 min
Difficulty
Hard
Pro Kitchen Tips
Use fresh lemon zest and juice to get the best citrus flavor.
Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after baking to make slicing easier.
Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to keep the texture tender.
Ingredients
0/12
What Makes This Recipe So Great
This dish combines the smoky richness of barbecue with a bright, zesty lemon flavor that keeps it fresh and exciting. It’s a comforting meal that feels homemade but has a unique twist. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Step 1
Lightly heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or something similar. In a big bowl, combine the ground beef with lemon juice, water, the egg, bread, chopped onion, and seasoning salt. Mix everything together well, then shape the mixture into six large balls—I like to make them nice and hearty. Arrange these on the baking dish.
Step 2
Pop the dish in the oven and let the meatloaves bake for about 15 minutes while you whip up the topping. For the sauce, mix ketchup, brown sugar, mustard powder, allspice, and cloves in a small bowl until smooth. Spoon this over each meatloaf, then place a lemon slice on top of each one.
Step 3
Put the dish back in the oven and bake for another 30 minutes or until the meat is fully cooked through and the topping is bubbly. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving, and enjoy that bright lemon flavor with your barbecue twist!
135
people cooked this recipe
ByMichael Davis
Michael enjoys creating straightforward meals that are easy to prepare at home.
Serving Combinations
Serve with classic mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables to balance the flavors. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette also pairs well and adds a refreshing crunch to the meal.
Reheating And Storage
Cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to four days and can be frozen for up to three months. Reheat gently to maintain moisture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used, but cooking times may vary slightly. Make sure the meat is fully cooked through.
What can I substitute for day-old bread?
You can use fresh bread toasted lightly or substitute with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
How do I know when the meatloaves are fully cooked?
They are done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the topping is bubbly.
Can I prepare the meatloaves ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them a few hours before baking and keep covered in the fridge until ready to cook.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free bread or breadcrumbs instead of regular bread to keep it gluten-free.
Can I make the sauce spicier?
Absolutely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the topping mixture to increase heat.
What side dishes pair well with this meal?
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad complement it nicely.
Can I freeze the meatloaves before or after cooking?
You can freeze them uncooked or cooked; just thaw thoroughly before baking or reheating.
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