Grilled Meatloaf is a simple, satisfying weeknight dinner full of smoky flavor. Ground beef, diced onions and a straightforward steak rub combine to create a juicy meatloaf that can be ready in under an hour on the grill.
While stuffed or sauced versions are delicious, this grilled meatloaf celebrates a more traditional, uncomplicated approach. No sauce is required—just meat, onion, an egg and a savory rub for a reliably flavorful result.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (70/30)
- 3/4 cup diced onion
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup steak rub (a mix of brown sugar, granulated garlic, chili powder, dried thyme, kosher salt, black pepper and smoked paprika)
Instructions
- Prepare your grill for indirect cooking and stabilize it at about 350°F. Add hickory or pecan for a subtle smoke if desired.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onion, beaten egg and steak rub. Mix gently with clean hands or a spoon until evenly blended.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf.
- Create a foil pan from two layers of heavy-duty aluminum foil with raised edges. Place the loaf in the foil pan to catch juices and keep the meatloaf moist while grilling.
- Set the foil pan on a grill pan and place it on the grill over indirect heat. Close the lid and cook for about 35–45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F measured with a digital thermometer.
- Remove the meatloaf from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes before transferring to a serving platter.
- Slice and serve warm.
If you like a glazed or sauced meatloaf, a sweet-and-tangy BBQ glaze or a spicy jalapeño-Dr Pepper style sauce pairs well, but this recipe is delicious on its own.
Storage and Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat slices in a skillet with a little olive oil over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side until warmed through.
Tips and Variations
- Use a fattier ground beef (70/30) for juicier results, or blend different cuts for texture.
- Add finely chopped vegetables or soaked breadcrumbs for a more traditional meatloaf texture if desired.
- Smoking wood like hickory or pecan adds depth but is optional—cooking on a gas grill without smoke still delivers great results.
More Ground Beef Grill Ideas
- Meatloaf Shots
- Mozzarella Burgers
- Ground Beef Kabobs
- BBQ Meatloaf
Try grilling meatloaf and you may prefer the smoky flavor and texture over baking in the oven. It’s classic comfort food elevated by a few simple steps on the grill.
Grilled Meatloaf
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (70/30)
- 3/4 cup diced onion
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup steak rub
Instructions
- Prepare a grill fire to about 350°F; add hickory or pecan for smoke if desired.
- Mix the ground beef, diced onion, egg and steak rub in a bowl until combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf.
- Make a foil pan from two layers of heavy-duty foil with a rim and place the loaf inside on a grill pan.
- Cook over indirect heat with the lid closed for about 35–45 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove from the grill and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Transfer to a platter, slice and serve.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days.
Reheat slices in a skillet with a little olive oil over medium heat for about 2–3 minutes per side.
Nutrition
Serve this grilled meatloaf to bring classic comfort food to the grill—simple ingredients, big flavor, and a texture that might make you prefer grilling over baking.