Missouri-Style Smokehouse Meatloaf on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Missouri-style smokehouse meatloaf is a grill lover’s dream come true! This version takes the classic comfort food and infuses it with a smoky, crispy crust using the Arteflame grill. We start by searing the meatloaf on the center grill grate at 1,000°F to lock in all the juices, then move it to the flat cooktop to finish to juicy perfection. A tangy glaze brushed on at the end caramelizes beautifully, adding irresistible flavor. With the Arteflame’s large cooking area, you can grill your favorite sides at the same time, creating a full-flavored meal effortlessly.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 mix for best flavor)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 eggs
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins and carefully light them.
3. Allow the grill to heat up for about 20 minutes until the center grill grate reaches 1,000°F.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
4. Form the mixture into a loaf shape.

Step 3: Sear the Meatloaf

1. Add butter to the grill grate.
2. Place the meatloaf on the center grill grate and sear for 2–3 minutes per side.
3. Once a crust forms, move the meatloaf to the flat cooktop to continue cooking.

Step 4: Cook to Perfection

1. Position the meatloaf towards the medium-heat section of the flat top cooktop.
2. Close to the end of cooking, make the glaze by combining ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.
3. Brush the glaze over the meatloaf and let it caramelize.
4. Cook until an internal temperature of 150°F is reached (carryover cooking will bring it to 165°F).

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the meatloaf from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
2. Slice and serve with your favorite grilled sides prepared alongside on the Arteflame grill.

Tips

• For an extra smoky flavor, add wood chunks to the fire.
• Use a grill-safe thermometer to monitor the internal temperature accurately.
• Don’t skip the resting step—this keeps your meatloaf juicy!

Variations

1. BBQ Bacon Meatloaf: Wrap the meatloaf in bacon and use BBQ sauce instead of ketchup for a smoky, savory twist.
2. Spicy Tex-Mex Meatloaf: Add chopped jalapeños and replace ketchup with a chipotle sauce for a kick.
3. Mushroom Swiss Meatloaf: Mix in sautéed mushrooms and top with Swiss cheese for a creamy finish.
4. Italian-Style Meatloaf: Replace breadcrumbs with Italian-seasoned panko and add Parmesan cheese with a marinara glaze.
5. Turkey Meatloaf: Substitute ground turkey for beef and add fresh herbs and Dijon mustard for a lighter version.

Best Pairings

• Grilled Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze
• Smoky grilled mashed sweet potatoes
• Fire-roasted corn on the cob
• Grilled Texas toast with garlic butter
• Bold red wine like Zinfandel or a classic smoked porter beer

Conclusion

Grilling Missouri-style smokehouse meatloaf on the Arteflame grill unlocks bold flavors you can’t get any other way. The combination of searing, indirect heat, and a mouthwatering glaze creates a dish that's juicy, flavorful, and visually stunning. Whether you're making the classic version or trying one of the variations, the key is to cook with care and attention to temperature. Serve it hot, slice it thick, and enjoy!