If you love meatloaf and pizza, then this Traeger Pizza Meatloaf is about to become your new favorite dish. Combining the hearty satisfaction of classic meatloaf with the gooey, cheesy goodness of pizza, this recipe takes things to the next level by cooking it on a Traeger pellet grill (or any smoker) for an irresistible smoky flavor.
Perfect for family dinners, game day feasts, or weekend BBQ gatherings, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Smoky & Juicy – The Traeger infuses the meatloaf with a rich, wood-fired taste.
✅ Pizza-Inspired Flavors – Pepperoni, mozzarella, and marinara make every bite delicious.
✅ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and hands-off cooking.
✅ Versatile – Works in the oven if you don’t have a smoker!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for best juiciness)
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot, depending on preference)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed saltines for gluten-free)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup diced pepperoni (plus extra for topping)
- ½ cup marinara sauce (plus more for glaze)
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
For the Pizza Toppings:
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup sliced pepperoni
- ¼ cup sliced black olives (optional)
- ¼ cup diced green bell peppers (optional)
- ¼ cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- ½ cup marinara sauce (for glaze)
For Serving (Optional):
- Fresh basil or parsley
- Extra marinara for dipping
- Red pepper flakes for heat
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Traeger (or Oven)
- Set your Traeger pellet grill (or smoker) to 350°F and let it preheat.
- If using an oven, preheat to 375°F.
2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan, diced pepperoni, marinara, and seasonings.
- Mix gently with your hands (don’t overwork the meat).
3. Shape the Meatloaf
- On a parchment-lined baking sheet or grill-safe pan, form the mixture into a loaf shape (about 9×5 inches).
- Create a slight indentation down the center to help hold toppings.
4. Smoke the Meatloaf
- Place the meatloaf on the Traeger and smoke for 45 minutes at 350°F.
- (If using an oven, bake for 40 minutes at 375°F.)
5. Add the Pizza Toppings
- After 45 minutes, remove the meatloaf and spread a layer of marinara over the top.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, then add pepperoni, olives, peppers, and mushrooms (if using).
6. Finish Cooking
- Return to the grill (or oven) and cook for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Internal temperature should reach 160°F.
7. Rest & Serve
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve with extra marinara.
Variations & Substitutions
- Spicy Version – Use hot Italian sausage and add jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
- BBQ Pizza Meatloaf – Swap marinara for BBQ sauce and use cheddar cheese.
- Supreme Style – Add cooked bacon, onions, and sausage crumbles on top.
- Low-Carb/Keto – Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or garlic bread.
- Great for game day, potlucks, or meal prep (leftovers reheat well!).
- Serve with a cold beer or Italian red wine.
Tips for the Best Results
- Don’t Overmix – Keeps the meatloaf tender.
- Use a Meat Thermometer – Ensures perfect doneness (160°F).
- Let It Rest – Prevents juices from spilling out when sliced.
- Customize Toppings – Make it your own with favorite pizza ingredients!
Final Thoughts
This Traeger Pizza Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food mashup—smoky, cheesy, and packed with pizza flavor. Whether you’re a grill master or just looking for a fun twist on classic meatloaf, this recipe is a must-try!