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This Traeger Pizza Meatloaf is the ultimate fusion of two beloved comfort foods—meatloaf and pizza—smoked to perfection on your Traeger grill. Combining ground beef, Italian sausage, and a flavorful blend of herbs, this hearty meatloaf is stuffed with melty mozzarella and pepperoni, then topped with a rich tomato sauce that brings the whole dish together. The smokiness from the Traeger elevates the flavor to a new level, making it a standout main course for family dinners, weekend cookouts, or game day gatherings. It’s a dish that feels both familiar and exciting, delivering the savory satisfaction of meatloaf with the fun, cheesy indulgence of pizza.

Smoked low and slow, the meatloaf remains juicy and tender inside while developing a beautiful crust on the outside. The pepperoni and cheese filling adds a surprise element that makes each bite irresistible. Whether you’re a die-hard meatloaf fan or just someone looking to try something new, this dish brings bold, Italian-inspired flavors with minimal fuss. Plus, the homemade tomato sauce made with San Marzano tomatoes takes this dish from great to unforgettable. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s equal parts comfort and creativity, this Traeger Pizza Meatloaf should be at the top of your list.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Smoky, Wood-Fired Flavor – Cooking it on the Traeger infuses the meatloaf with a deep, irresistible smokiness.
Pizza-Inspired Twist – With pepperoni, mozzarella, and tomato sauce, it satisfies both meatloaf and pizza cravings.
Juicy and Tender – The blend of beef and sausage ensures rich flavor and a moist, tender texture.
Stuffed Surprise – Melting mozzarella and pepperoni inside the meatloaf adds a delicious twist to every slice.
Perfect for Gatherings – It’s a hearty, impressive dish that feeds a crowd and draws rave reviews.

Ingredients

Meat

Ground beef
Italian sausage
Eggs
Italian breadcrumbs
Italian seasoning
Salt

Filling

Pepperoni
Fresh mozzarella
San Marzano tomatoes
Fresh basil

Sauce

Olive oil
Fresh garlic
San Marzano tomatoes
Salt
Oregano
Sugar (optional)

Variations

Add Veggies: Include sautéed mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers in the filling.
Cheese Swap: Use provolone or shredded Italian cheese blend instead of fresh mozzarella.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or sauce for heat.
Keto-Friendly Version: Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
Mini Loaves: Make individual-sized meatloaves for quicker cooking and easy serving.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Preheat your Traeger to 275°F. Prepare a baking sheet or loaf pan with foil or parchment paper.

Step 2

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian sausage, eggs, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork.

Step 3

Split the meat mixture in half. Flatten one half into a rectangle on the prepared tray.

Step 4

Layer the pepperoni, fresh mozzarella slices, a few spoonfuls of San Marzano tomatoes (drained), and fresh basil over the meat.

Step 5

Flatten the second half of the meat mixture and place it on top, sealing the edges well to encase the filling.

Step 6

Place the meatloaf on the Traeger and smoke for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Step 7

While it cooks, make the sauce: In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in the remaining San Marzano tomatoes, salt, oregano, and optional sugar. Simmer until thickened.

Step 8

Once the meatloaf is fully cooked, spoon the warm tomato sauce over the top. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use parchment or foil to shape and move the meatloaf easily on the grill.
Don’t overmix the meat to keep the loaf tender.
Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness—160°F is ideal.
Let it rest after cooking to retain juices.
Drain excess tomato juice from the filling to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Slice thick pieces and serve with extra tomato sauce on the side. Pair it with garlic mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a crisp Caesar salad. It also makes excellent meatloaf sandwiches the next day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Wrap cooked, cooled meatloaf slices in foil and place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 300°F covered with foil, or in the microwave. Add extra sauce to keep it moist.

FAQs

1. Can I make this meatloaf without a Traeger grill?

Yes, you can bake it in a conventional oven at 350°F for about 60–75 minutes.

2. Can I use pre-shredded cheese instead of fresh mozzarella?

Yes, but fresh mozzarella provides a creamier, more authentic texture.

3. What type of wood pellets should I use?

Hickory or a blend like Traeger’s Signature Blend works well for this recipe.

4. Can I prepare the meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the meatloaf and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking.

5. Is the sugar in the sauce necessary?

It’s optional—add it only if your tomatoes taste very acidic.

6. Can I substitute the Italian sausage?

Yes, you can use all ground beef or try ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

7. How do I keep the meatloaf from falling apart?

Make sure to use enough binder (eggs and breadcrumbs), and don’t skip the resting time after cooking.

8. Can I grill this directly on the grates?

It’s best to use a pan or foil to catch any drippings and keep the shape intact.

9. How spicy is this recipe?

It’s mild, but you can adjust the spice level with hot pepper flakes or spicy sausage.

10. What are the best sides for pizza meatloaf?

Think Italian: garlic bread, roasted broccoli, or pasta salad all work beautifully.

Conclusion

Traeger Pizza Meatloaf is a bold, comforting, and flavor-packed twist on a dinner classic. With its cheesy, pepperoni-stuffed center and smoky tomato sauce topping, this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a weekend cookout or planning a hearty weeknight meal, this recipe delivers delicious results every time. Give it a try—you’ll never look at meatloaf the same way again.