Traeger Meatloaf
Published August 22, 2021 • Updated February 3, 2026
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Cooking this meatloaf on a pellet grill adds a subtle smoky flavor and tender texture that I wasn't able to achieve in the oven. My family asked me to make it again the very next night, and it's been our go-to low-carb dinner ever since.
This smoked keto meatloaf quickly became my preferred way to make it once I dialed in the temperature and pellet combination. The flavor is deeper, the outside develops a light bark, and the inside stays juicy, as long as a few key details are handled correctly.
Why this version stays juicy (without breadcrumbs)
Instead of traditional breadcrumbs, I use pork panko to keep this low-carb. It absorbs moisture without turning the mixture dense, gummy, or like you’re eating a giant loaf of hamburger, which was a big issue in some early test batches. The combination of ground beef and ground pork also helps here. Beef alone works, but the pork adds insurance against dryness during the long cook.
Heavy cream and egg bind everything together without making it spongy, and finely diced onion melts into the mixture instead of leaving chunks behind.
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Ingredients
1 pound ground beef (90/10) -
1 pound ground pork
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2 cups pork panko
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1/3 cup diced yellow onion
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1/3 cup heavy cream
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1 large egg
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1/4 cup chopped parsley
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 teaspoons salt
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1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Step by Step Instructions
Step by Step Instructions
Preheat Traeger
Preheat pellet grill to 225 degrees F with lid closed to capture smoke.
Meatloaf mixture
Add ground beef, ground pork, pork panko, egg, onion, parsley, heavy cream, garlic, salt and pepper to a large bowl. Mix with a spoon or clean hands until combined.
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 2 cups pork panko
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
Grill
Place grill tray with meatloaf in the Traeger with the lid closed and grill for 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160 degrees F.
Nutrition disclaimer
The nutrition information provided is an estimate and is for informational purposes only. I am a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.); however, this content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or other qualified health provider before making any lifestyle changes or beginning a new nutrition program.
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Get My Macros (Free) →Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use only ground beef instead of a mix with ground pork?
Absolutely! You can use just ground beef if that's what you have on hand. The pork adds extra moisture and flavor.
What can I substitute for pork panko?
If you can't find pork panko, crushed pork rinds work perfectly and keep it keto. Regular panko or crackers will work too, but they'll add carbs.
How should I store leftover meatloaf?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf mix?
Yes! Feel free to add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to keep the overall moisture balance in check.
