Instant Pot® Meatloaf with BBQ and Cheddar

A easy Instant Pot® recipe combines tender, flavorful meatloaf with a tangy BBQ glaze and melted cheddar cheese for a comforting meal. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and delicious in no time.

Tips For Better Flavor

Use a mix of ground beef and pork for extra juiciness.
Let the meat mixture rest for a few minutes before shaping to help it hold together better.
Avoid overfilling the Instant Pot to ensure even cooking.

Ingredients 0/7

½ pound ground beef ½ cup panko bread crumbs ¼ cup 1% milk 2 ounces shredded sharp Cheddar cheese 1 small egg ½ (1 ounce) package dry onion soup mix (such as Lipton®) 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce

Why This Recipe Is So Delicious

This dish combines the rich flavors of savory meatloaf with the tangy sweetness of BBQ sauce and the creamy melt of cheddar cheese. Cooking it in an Instant Pot makes the process fast and easy, delivering a moist and tender result every time.

Step 1

In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, Cheddar cheese, egg, and dry onion soup mix until everything is well combined. Turn the mixture out onto a cutting board and shape it into a loaf.

Step 2

Place the trivet inside your Instant Pot and pour in half a cup of water. Carefully set the meatloaf on the trivet. Secure the lid, making sure it’s locked, then set the pressure cooker to high pressure for 15 minutes. It might take about 10 to 15 minutes for the pressure to build.

Step 3

When the cooking time is up, use the quick-release method to let the pressure out—this should take around 5 minutes. Once it’s safe, open the lid and remove the meatloaf along with the trivet.

Step 4

Preheat your oven’s broiler and position a rack about 6 inches from the heat. Place the trivet with the meatloaf on a rimmed baking sheet, brush the top generously with barbecue sauce, and pop it under the broiler. Let it broil for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and caramelized.

Step 5

Let the meatloaf rest for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps the juices settle and makes for a juicier bite!

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people cooked this recipe

By Ryan Parker

Ryan shares simple recipes made for everyday cooking and easy family meals.

Serving Inspiration

Serve with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables to balance the savory flavors. A fresh green salad or coleslaw adds a nice crunch and lightness to the meal.

Storage Instructions

Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days or freeze portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of ground meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork, but cooking times may vary slightly.

What can I use instead of panko bread crumbs?

You can use regular bread crumbs or crushed crackers as a substitute.

How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked in the Instant Pot?

The 15-minute high pressure cook time is designed to fully cook the meatloaf, but you can check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F for safety.

Can I skip the broiling step after pressure cooking?

You can skip it, but broiling adds a nice caramelized BBQ glaze and enhances flavor and texture.

Is it necessary to use the trivet inside the Instant Pot?

Yes, the trivet keeps the meatloaf above the water to ensure even cooking and prevent it from steaming directly.

Can I prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix and shape the meatloaf a few hours in advance and keep it refrigerated until ready to cook.

What should I do if I don’t have dry onion soup mix?

You can use a mix of dried onion flakes, beef bouillon, and herbs as a substitute.

How do I store leftovers and reheat them?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.