Saginaw-Style BBQ Meatloaf on the Grill with Michigan Sauce

Introduction

Get ready for an incredible twist on a classic dish with this Saginaw-Style BBQ Meatloaf, grilled to perfection on the Arteflame. By searing the meatloaf on the center grill grate at 1,000F, we lock in the juices before finishing it on the griddle with a tangy Michigan-style BBQ glaze. The result? A smoky, juicy, and flavor-packed meatloaf with a perfect crust. Whether you're grilling for family or wowing guests, this recipe delivers an unbeatable taste with no oven needed!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup finely diced onion
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup Michigan-style BBQ sauce
• 2 tbsp butter (for grilling)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood on top of the soaked napkins.
3. Light the paper and allow the fire to build, heating up the grill for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, bread crumbs, milk, egg, onion, bell pepper, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix until well combined but do not overwork the meat.
3. Shape into a loaf approximately 8 inches long and 4 inches wide.

Step 3: Sear on the Center Grill Grate

1. Grease the center grill grate with butter.
2. Place the meatloaf directly on the center grill grate and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until a deep crust forms.

Step 4: Transfer to the Flat Top

1. Move the seared meatloaf to the flat cooktop, closer to the outer edge where the heat is moderate.
2. Cook for about 40 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 150F.

Step 5: Glaze and Finish

1. Brush the Michigan-style BBQ sauce all over the meatloaf.
2. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes until the sauce caramelizes.
3. Remove from the grill when the internal temperature reaches 155F (it will continue cooking to 165F off the heat).
4. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Tips

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
• Letting the meatloaf rest helps keep it juicy.
• Adding butter to the griddle enhances flavor and prevents sticking.

Variations

1. Spicy Kick: Add 1 tsp cayenne pepper and 1 tbsp hot sauce to the mixture for a fiery touch.
2. Herb-Infused: Mix in 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme and rosemary for an aromatic flavor.
3. Cheesy Delight: Add 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar inside for a gooey center.
4. Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap the meatloaf in bacon before grilling for extra smokiness.
5. Sweet & Smoky: Use a honey BBQ sauce and add 1 tbsp brown sugar to the mix for a sweet balance.

Best Pairings

• Grilled sweet corn with butter
• Smoked baked potatoes
• Grilled asparagus
• Michigan-style coleslaw
• A glass of bold red wine or craft beer

Conclusion

This Saginaw-Style BBQ Meatloaf is a game-changer for meatloaf lovers, delivering a perfect crust, smoky flavor, and juicy texture without ever using an oven! Grilled and glazed with Michigan-style BBQ sauce, it's an instant favorite on the Arteflame.