Traeger Smoked Stuffed Pizza Meatloaf is a delicious twist on classic meatloaf that combines two favorite comfort foods—pizza and meatloaf—into one irresistible dish. Infused with the smoky flavors from a Traeger grill, this hearty meatloaf is stuffed with a savory mix of pepperoni, fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil, making each slice an explosion of flavor. Topped with a zesty homemade sauce made from San Marzano tomatoes and a touch of garlic, this meatloaf is an elevated version of the traditional recipe. Perfect for a family dinner, tailgating, or a weekend feast, this smoked stuffed pizza meatloaf will quickly become a crowd favorite.

The Traeger grill imparts a smoky richness that transforms this dish into something truly special, while the combination of Italian sausage and ground beef in the meat mixture adds depth and juiciness. Whether you’re a fan of meatloaf or a pizza lover, this recipe is bound to satisfy both cravings in a single, mouthwatering meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Smoky Flavor – Cooking the meatloaf on a Traeger grill gives it a smoky depth that regular oven-baked meatloaf just can’t match.

Pizza-Inspired Filling – The stuffed filling with pepperoni, fresh mozzarella, and basil mimics the best flavors of pizza, making it a fun twist on a classic dish.
Juicy and Flavorful – The mix of Italian sausage and ground beef ensures a moist and flavorful meatloaf that stays tender throughout.
Homemade Sauce – The San Marzano tomato sauce is a delicious, simple topping that enhances the flavor of the meatloaf.

Crowd-Pleaser – It’s an impressive dish that will wow family and friends at any gathering or dinner party.

Ingredients

For the Meat

Ground beef (80/20)
Italian sausage

Eggs
Italian breadcrumbs
Italian seasoning

Salt

For the Filling

Pepperoni
Fresh mozzarella slices

San Marzano tomatoes (28 oz can)
Fresh basil leaves

For the Sauce

Olive oil

Fresh garlic
San Marzano tomatoes
Salt

Oregano
Sugar (optional)

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the Italian sausage and ground beef with plant-based meat substitutes.

Cheese Lovers: Add extra mozzarella or try a combination of cheeses such as provolone and parmesan for an even richer flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add some sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling for a bit of heat.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour as a binder for the meatloaf.

Extra Toppings: Top the meatloaf with additional pepperoni or a sprinkle of shredded parmesan before serving for added texture and flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Traeger Grill

Preheat your Traeger smoker to 350°F (175°C). If using wood pellets, a blend of hickory or applewood works well for this dish.

Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian sausage, eggs, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix until well combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a separate bowl, drain the can of San Marzano tomatoes, reserving the juice. Slice the fresh mozzarella and basil leaves. Lay out the pepperoni slices.

Step 4: Stuff the Meatloaf

On a large piece of parchment paper, spread the meat mixture into a rectangular shape. Layer the pepperoni slices, fresh mozzarella, and basil in the center, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully roll the meatloaf over the filling to enclose it, sealing the edges to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.

Step 5: Smoke the Meatloaf

Place the stuffed meatloaf on the preheated Traeger grill and smoke for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). The meatloaf should have a nice smoky crust on the outside.

Step 6: Make the Sauce

While the meatloaf is smoking, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Add the San Marzano tomatoes, salt, oregano, and sugar (if using). Simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 7: Serve

Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes. Slice the meatloaf and serve with the homemade sauce drizzled over the top. Garnish with additional fresh basil or grated parmesan if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Be sure to seal the meatloaf well around the edges to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.

Use high-quality San Marzano tomatoes for the best flavor in your sauce.
Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the meatloaf moist.
If you want a more pronounced smoky flavor, try smoking the meatloaf at a slightly lower temperature for a longer time.

Feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings to the filling, such as olives, mushrooms, or bell peppers.

How to Serve

Serve the Traeger Smoked Stuffed Pizza Meatloaf with a side of roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a simple green salad for a complete meal. You can also pair it with extra pizza sauce for dipping, or serve over a bed of pasta for an Italian-inspired twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

The meatloaf can be frozen before cooking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before smoking.

Reheating

Reheat leftover meatloaf in the microwave or in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent the meatloaf from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I cook this meatloaf in a regular oven instead of a Traeger?

Yes, you can bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 60-75 minutes.

2. Can I make the filling with other types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to use any cheese that melts well, such as provolone, cheddar, or fontina.

3. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add more pepperoni, red pepper flakes, or even a bit of hot sausage to the filling for a spicy kick.

4. Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef and sausage.

5. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

6. Is it necessary to let the meatloaf rest before slicing?

Yes, letting the meatloaf rest helps keep it juicy and prevents the filling from spilling out.

7. Can I freeze the meatloaf before cooking?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed meatloaf before smoking. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.

8. Can I use store-bought pizza sauce instead of making my own?

Certainly, store-bought pizza sauce is a convenient option if you’re short on time.

9. How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

10. Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf mixture?

Yes, finely chopped onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms can be added to the meat mixture for extra flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Traeger Smoked Stuffed Pizza Meatloaf is a deliciously smoky and savory dish that takes the classic meatloaf to a whole new level. With its stuffed pizza filling, homemade sauce, and smoky aroma, it’s sure to be a hit at your next family dinner or outdoor gathering. Whether cooked on a Traeger grill or in the oven, this dish offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures that will keep you coming back for more. Enjoy this indulgent, comfort food masterpiece that brings together the best of both pizza and meatloaf!