If you’re craving a classic comfort food with a fresh twist, the Grilled BBQ Meatloaf Skewers Recipe is about to become your new backyard favorite. Juicy ground beef, perfectly seasoned and grilled to smoky perfection on skewers, creates an irresistible handheld meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Finished with a tangy cream sauce and a glossy BBQ glaze, these skewers transform traditional meatloaf into a vibrant, crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for any gathering or weeknight dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Grilled BBQ Meatloaf Skewers Recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create rich flavors and appealing textures. Each component plays an important role, from seasoning the meat just right to adding that luscious sauce that ties everything together.
- Lean ground beef (2 lbs): The hearty base that stays juicy and flavorful when grilled.
- Large egg (1): Acts as a binder to keep the mini meatloaves together while cooking.
- Cilantro-lime seasoning blend (2 tbsp): Adds a fresh, zesty herbal note that brightens the meat.
- Spicy seasoning blend (1 tbsp): Brings a smoky heat that amplifies the BBQ vibe.
- Minced garlic (2 tsp): Delivers an aromatic punch to balance the rich meat.
- Onion powder (1 tsp): Enhances savoriness without overwhelming the mix.
- Salt (1 tsp): Essential for bringing all the flavors to life.
- Black pepper (½ tsp): Adds a subtle kick and depth.
- Cumin (½ tsp): Gives a warm earthiness that pairs beautifully with BBQ sauce.
- Smoky BBQ sauce (¼ cup, divided): Infuses the meat with caramelized tang and sweetness.
- Garlic-infused oil (2 tbsp): Keeps the meat moist and adds an extra layer of flavor when grilling.
- Sour cream (¼ cup): Forms the creamy base of the cool, zesty dipping sauce.
- Mayonnaise (2 tbsp): Makes the cream sauce rich and silky.
- Fresh lemon juice (1 tbsp): Brightens the cream sauce with a fresh citrus spark.
How to Make Grilled BBQ Meatloaf Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Skewers and Meat Mixture
Start by soaking wooden skewers in water for about 10 minutes, which helps prevent them from burning on the grill—this small step makes a huge difference. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, and all the seasonings including cilantro-lime blend, spicy rub, garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cumin. Add 2 tablespoons of smoky BBQ sauce for that initial flavor punch. Mix gently until just combined—you want the ingredients evenly distributed but avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
Step 2: Shape and Skewer the Mini Meatloaves
Divide your meat mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each into a mini loaf about 4 to 5 inches long—think fun-sized meatloaves that fit perfectly on a skewer. Carefully thread a soaked wooden skewer through each meatloaf lengthwise. Brush each with the garlic-infused oil, which helps create a savory, crisp crust on the grill.
Step 3: Grill to Perfection
Place your skewers on a preheated grill set to medium-high heat, around 375°F. Grill for 10 to 15 minutes, turning halfway so they brown evenly on all sides. During the last few minutes, brush the remaining BBQ sauce over the skewers to develop that sticky, caramelized glaze. Grill until the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F to ensure juicy, safe-to-eat meatloaf. Once off the grill, let the skewers rest for 5 minutes to lock in those beautiful juices.
Step 4: Whip Up the Cream Sauce
While the skewers rest, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, cilantro-lime seasoning, and fresh lemon juice in a small bowl. This sauce is the perfect cool and creamy contrast to the smoky, savory meat, making every bite even more irresistible. Keep it chilled until ready to serve alongside your skewers.
How to Serve Grilled BBQ Meatloaf Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
Adding colorful garnishes to your Grilled BBQ Meatloaf Skewers Recipe brings extra flavor and visual appeal. Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or parsley over the top for a pop of green and an herbal brightness. A few lemon wedges on the side encourage diners to add a splash of citrus that cuts through the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
These skewers pair wonderfully with classic BBQ sides like creamy coleslaw, grilled corn on the cob, or a fresh mixed green salad tossed with light vinaigrette. Roasted sweet potatoes or garlic mashed potatoes also complement the smoky flavors nicely while keeping the meal comfortably homey.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party snack, stand the grilled meatloaf skewers upright in a rustic wooden board or platter, surrounded by small bowls of dipping sauces like extra BBQ sauce, the creamy herb sauce, or spicy mustard. You can also serve them on soft rolls with fresh lettuce and tomato for a meatloaf sandwich twist that’s portable and perfect for picnics or cookouts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Grilled BBQ Meatloaf Skewers Recipe skewers are best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making them a convenient, flavorful meal for busy days ahead.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the skewers, it’s best to do so before grilling. Wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and grill as directed for fresh-off-the-grill taste any time.
Reheating
To reheat cooked skewers, use a grill or oven to warm them up gently and retain that crispy exterior. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the meat soggy. Heating to an internal temperature of 145°F ensures safe warming and succulent results.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter option, but since they are leaner, be careful not to overcook them. Adding a tablespoon of olive oil to the mixture can help keep the loaves moist on the grill.
Do I need wooden skewers or can I use metal?
Metal skewers work perfectly if you prefer to avoid soaking wooden ones. They conduct heat well and help cook the meat from the inside out, reducing cooking time slightly.
What if I don’t have cilantro-lime seasoning?
No worries! You can substitute with a mix of dried cilantro, lime zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The bright herbs and citrus are what make this seasoning so special in the Grilled BBQ Meatloaf Skewers Recipe.
How do I know when the meatloaf skewers are fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached at least 145°F. This ensures the meat is safe to eat and juicy inside without overcooking.
Can I make the cream sauce dairy-free?
Definitely! Swap out sour cream and mayonnaise for dairy-free alternatives like coconut yogurt and vegan mayo. Add the same herbs and lemon juice to keep the tangy, creamy flavor intact.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the joy of gathering around the grill with friends and family, especially when you have a crowd-pleaser like the Grilled BBQ Meatloaf Skewers Recipe ready to go. It’s a dish that turns everyday ingredients into an extraordinary experience, blending smoky, tangy, and savory flavors in every bite. Give it a try—you might just find your go-to recipe for all your backyard barbecues and casual dinners!
Print
Grilled BBQ Meatloaf Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 skewers
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
Enjoy a fun twist on classic comfort food with these Grilled BBQ Meatloaf Skewers. Perfect for backyard gatherings, these mini meatloaf skewers are seasoned with a spicy and cilantro-lime blend, grilled to juicy perfection, and served with a zesty cream sauce.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 2 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp cilantro-lime seasoning blend (or your favorite herb seasoning)
- 1 tbsp spicy seasoning blend (such as a hot or smoky BBQ rub)
- 2 tsp garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp cumin
- ¼ cup smoky BBQ sauce, divided
- 2 tbsp garlic-infused oil (or olive oil)
For the Cream Sauce
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp cilantro-lime seasoning blend (or your preferred herb seasoning)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare Skewers: Soak the wooden skewers in water for about 10 minutes to prevent burning while grilling.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, cilantro-lime seasoning, spicy seasoning, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cumin, and 2 tablespoons of the smoky BBQ sauce. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough meatloaf.
- Shape and Skewer Mini Loaves: Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a mini loaf about 4 to 5 inches long. Thread each loaf onto a soaked wooden skewer and brush all sides lightly with garlic-infused oil to enhance flavor and prevent sticking on the grill.
- Grill Meatloaf Skewers: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F). Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Glaze and Finish Cooking: During the last few minutes, brush the remaining BBQ sauce onto the meatloaf skewers. Continue grilling until the sauce caramelizes and the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F for safe consumption.
- Rest Meatloaf Skewers: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful.
- Prepare Cream Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, cilantro-lime seasoning, and lemon juice until smooth. Keep chilled until ready to serve.
- Serve: Serve warm meatloaf skewers with the chilled cream sauce on the side. Optionally, add extra BBQ sauce or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
Notes
- Ensure meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F for safe consumption.
- Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Use garlic-infused oil or olive oil to add flavor and prevent sticking.
- Serve with extra BBQ sauce or a fresh salad to round out the meal.
