South Carolina Lowcountry BBQ Meatloaf

Introduction

This Lowcountry Barbecue Meatloaf brings a Southern twist to a classic comfort dish by grilling it to perfection on the Arteflame Grill. With its steakhouse-quality sear on the center grill grate and even heat cooking on the flat cooktop, this meatloaf boasts juicy tenderness and that iconic South Carolina barbecue flavor. You'll love this unique spin on meatloaf—made entirely on the Arteflame, without ever touching an oven.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp Worchestershire sauce
• 2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 cup South Carolina-style mustard barbecue sauce (plus more for basting)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for grilling)
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

The Sear Makes the Steak, And Arteflame Makes the Sear

Why settle for low-temperature searing when you can achieve steakhouse-quality results with an Arteflame? Gas grills take longer, drying out your steak, while the Arteflame sears at 1000°F in just one minute, locking in juices for perfection.

Visit Grill Store

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Soak 3 paper napkins with vegetable oil and place them in the center of the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins and light them. Wait about 20 minutes for the grill to come up to full heat.
3. Ensure the center grate reaches over 1,000°F for searing and the flat cooktop has distinct heat zones.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, bread crumbs, eggs, milk, onion, pepper, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Add 1/2 cup barbecue sauce and mix until evenly combined—do not overmix.
3. Form the mixture into a firm loaf shape, about 3 inches thick.

Step 3: Sear the Meatloaf

1. Place a small amount of butter on the Arteflame center grill grate for flavor and to prevent sticking.
2. Carefully sear all sides of the meatloaf on the center grate for about 1–2 minutes per side until a crust forms.

Step 4: Reverse Sear to Finish Cooking

1. Move the meatloaf to the flat cooktop near the center for higher heat or toward the outer edge for slower cooking.
2. Baste with barbecue sauce every 10–15 minutes while grilling.
3. Grill until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 145°F, then remove. Carryover cooking will bring it to 160°F.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
2. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side.

Tips

• Remove the meatloaf from the grill when internal temp hits 145°F—carryover cooking will finish it off.
• Use a grilling spatula to move the meatloaf safely across heat zones.
• Butter adds richness and helps give the meatloaf a perfect sear on the flat cooktop.
• Grill veggies or cornbread on the flat cooktop while meatloaf cooks.
• Always rest meat before slicing for maximum juiciness.

Variations

1. Cheddar Stuffed: Add a layer of sharp cheddar in the center of the loaf for a gooey surprise.
2. Mushroom & Swiss: Fold in sautéed mushrooms and shredded Swiss cheese for a rich and earthy flavor.
3. Sweet & Spicy Peach BBQ: Use a peach-infused hot barbecue sauce for a South Carolina summer twist.
4. Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap the entire meatloaf in bacon before searing for crispy, smoky flavor.
5. Tex-Mex Style: Add cumin, chili powder, and diced green chiles. Use chipotle BBQ sauce for a Southwestern flair.

Best pairings

• Grilled cornbread on the flat cooktop
• Smoky grilled green beans with butter and garlic
• Griddled mashed potato patties
• Pickled okra or coleslaw for crunch and tang
• Sweet tea, bourbon lemonade, or a pale ale

Conclusion

South Carolina Lowcountry BBQ Meatloaf is the ultimate backyard comfort food, elevated by the grilling power of the Arteflame. With a perfect sear, juicy interior, and tangy barbecue glaze, this is one meal that'll impress guests and have folks asking for seconds. It’s meatloaf therapy—Southern style!