1-First Step: Prepare Your Ingredients Mix the meatloaf ingredients gently in a large bowl, starting with the 2 pounds of ground beef, 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs, grated 1/2 medium red onion, and 2 cloves minced garlic. Add in the 2 lightly beaten eggs, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 2 tablespoons whiskey, 2 tablespoons beef seasoning, and 1/4 cup milk, stirring just enough to combine without overmixing. This keeps your smoked meatloaf tender and juicy.

2-Second Step: Form the Loaf Shape half of the meat mixture into a loaf in a grill basket or rack for good smoke flow. Lay the 6 ounces of cheese strips on top, leaving space around the edges to avoid leaks. Cover with the rest of the meat, pressing the sides firmly to seal everything in. For variations, you can adapt this for dietary needs by swapping meats if needed.

3-Third Step: Make the Sauce In another bowl, combine 1/2 cup ketchup, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup whiskey, and 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the loaf, covering the top and sides for that flavorful glaze. If you’re adjusting for a low-calorie version, use less sugar here to keep things light while still enjoying smoked meatloaf.

4-Fourth Step: Preheat and Smoke Preheat your smoker to 225 degrees F using hickory or oak wood for the best flavor. Place the loaf in the smoker and close the lid, letting it cook for about 4 hours. Check the internal temperature with a thermometer until it reaches 165 degrees F, ensuring it’s safe and perfectly done for this smoked meatloaf recipe.

5-Final Step: Rest and Serve Once smoked, remove the meatloaf and let it rest for at least 5 minutes to let the juices settle. Slice it up and serve hot, with the melty cheese center adding a fun surprise. This step helps keep the smoked meatloaf moist, making it a great option for family meals or leftovers. For more ideas, check out our easy BBQ ribs recipe for complementary sides.