Name: Pepper Meatloaf with Dr. Pepper BBQ Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¾ cup milk; ⅔ cup seasoned bread crumbs; 2 eggs; 2 teaspoons dried minced onion; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon mustard; 1 tablespoon BBQ sauce; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; ¼ teaspoon seasoning salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 pounds lean ground beef; ½ cup Dr. Pepper soda; ½ cup BBQ sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 41 reviews

If you’re searching for a comfort food classic with a twist that will have your family and friends asking for seconds, look no further than this Pepper Meatloaf with Dr. Pepper BBQ Glaze Recipe. It takes the familiar, hearty meatloaf you love and amps it up by brushing on a luscious, sweet, and tangy barbecue glaze made with the surprising addition of Dr. Pepper. The gentle fizz and caramel undertones of the soda balance the savory spices and juicy beef in the meatloaf, resulting in a dish bursting with flavor and unforgettable aroma.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a collection of cooking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. At the center back is a dark gray tray holding three portions of raw ground meat with a rough and moist texture in pinkish-red color. Surrounding this are small white bowls and containers holding various ingredients: at the top left is a small bowl of yellowish crumbled pieces; below it is a clear glass bowl filled with golden yellow breadcrumbs; next to that is a glass bowl full of white liquid, likely milk. To the right of the meat tray, there is a white ramekin with a glossy deep brown sauce and a smaller white dish holding a dark brown liquid. Below these, a red can of Dr Pepper is lying on its side. At the front, there are two white eggs, and three small white square and round dishes with powders and pastes, including a yellow mustard-colored paste, a light yellow minced or crushed ingredient, and a mix of spices including black pepper and an orange-yellow powder. The setup is bright and clean with strong even lighting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Pepper Meatloaf with Dr. Pepper BBQ Glaze Recipe is rooted in its simplicity yet harmony of flavors. Each ingredient plays an essential role: from the creamy milk that keeps the meatloaf moist, to the tangy mustard and Worcestershire sauce that add a depth of savory goodness, and finally, the spice from black pepper that gives it that signature kick. Let’s dive into the essentials you’ll need to build this culinary masterpiece.

¾ cup milk: Helps to keep the meatloaf tender and moist throughout baking.
⅔ cup seasoned bread crumbs: Binds everything together while adding subtle texture.
2 eggs: Acts as the glue that holds the meatloaf mixture firm yet tender.
2 teaspoons dried minced onion: Infuses a gentle sweetness and savory depth.
1 clove garlic minced: Offers aromatic pungency that brightens the meat’s flavor.
1 tablespoon mustard: Brings tang and a mild heat to balance richness.
1 tablespoon BBQ sauce: Adds smoky undertones straight into the meat mixture.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Amplifies umami and enhances overall savoriness.
¼ teaspoon seasoning salt: Provides a nuanced salty foundation.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Delivers those signature peppery notes this recipe is known for.
2 pounds lean ground beef: The hearty base of your meatloaf, lean but flavorful.
½ cup Dr. Pepper: For the glaze, its caramel sweetness pairs beautifully with BBQ flavors.
½ cup BBQ Sauce: The rich, smoky glaze game-changer.
2 tablespoons brown sugar: Balances tang and smoke with a touch of molasses sweetness.

How to Make Pepper Meatloaf with Dr. Pepper BBQ Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

Start by combining the milk and bread crumbs in a mixing bowl, letting them soak together for a couple of minutes to soften the crumbs. This step ensures your meatloaf stays moist and tender inside. Next, add the eggs, dried minced onion, minced garlic, mustard, BBQ sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, mixing them gently. Then it’s time to season with the seasoning salt and black pepper — the heart of that signature pepper flavor. Finally, add the ground beef, but be careful not to overmix; you want everything just combined for the best texture.

Step 2: Shape the Meatloaf and Prepare for Baking

Once your mixture is ready, shape it into a classic loaf on a baking sheet or place it into a loaf pan. The loaf should be compact but not packed too tightly, which helps it cook evenly without becoming dense. While the oven preheats, get ready to make the glaze that will take this meatloaf from good to unforgettable.

Step 3: Make the Dr. Pepper BBQ Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine the Dr. Pepper, BBQ sauce, and brown sugar. Heat over medium, stirring occasionally until the sugar has dissolved and the glaze slightly thickens to a luscious consistency. This glaze is your secret weapon, offering a sweet, smoky, and tangy coating that caramelizes beautifully during baking.

Step 4: Bake and Glaze

Bake the meatloaf for about 40 minutes, then pull it out and generously brush the top with the Dr. Pepper BBQ glaze. Return it to the oven for an additional 20-25 minutes, allowing that magical glaze to set and develop a glossy finish. The aroma at this point alone will have your taste buds buzzing in anticipation!

How to Serve Pepper Meatloaf with Dr. Pepper BBQ Glaze Recipe

The image shows a step-by-step process of making a meatloaf. The first layer is raw ground meat mixed with yellow mustard and seasonings in a clear glass measuring cup on a white marbled surface, with a small bowl of sauce with a spoon beside it. The second layer shows the mixed meat with mustard blended in the same glass cup. The third layer reveals the meatloaf placed in a foil-lined slow cooker, covered with an orange-brown sauce layer. The final layer shows the fully cooked meatloaf in the slow cooker, coated with a shiny dark brown sauce and sprinkled with chopped green herbs on top. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To complement the rich, savory flavor of the meatloaf, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a fresh, vibrant pop of color and mild oniony crunch. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper on top can also enhance the overall peppery profile that this dish is famous for.

Side Dishes

This Pepper Meatloaf with Dr. Pepper BBQ Glaze Recipe pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered green beans, or a fresh garden salad. The creaminess and crunch of these sides provide the perfect balance to the smoky-sweet meatloaf, making every bite effortlessly delightful.

Creative Ways to Present

For a twist on presentation, consider serving thick slices of the meatloaf open-faced on toasted rustic bread, topped with extra glaze and a sprinkle of melted cheddar. Another fun idea is to transform leftovers into sliders with pickles and coleslaw for a weekend casual meal that will still wow your taste buds.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, leftover meatloaf can be wrapped tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 4 days. The rich flavors deepen over time, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick family dinners.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked meatloaf in its shaped form or freeze fully cooked meatloaf slices wrapped well in foil and plastic. Be sure to label and date the package; it will keep well for up to 3 months, preserving that amazing balance of spices and glaze.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Cover loosely with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, slices work well in the microwave, just be sure to cover and heat in short intervals.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of soda instead of Dr. Pepper for the glaze?

Absolutely! While Dr. Pepper brings its unique caramel and spiced flavors, you can experiment with colas or other dark sodas, but expect slight differences in sweetness and depth.

Is there a way to make this meatloaf gluten-free?

Yes! Swap out the seasoned bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to maintain the binding properties without gluten concerns.

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time and bake it later?

Yes, you can mix and shape the meatloaf up to a day in advance and keep it wrapped in the fridge. Add the glaze just before baking for the freshest finish.

What’s the best way to prevent meatloaf from drying out?

Using ingredients like milk and eggs helps retain moisture. Also, avoid overmixing, and don’t skip the glaze—it locks in moisture and adds flavor.

Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?

Certainly! Ground turkey or chicken can be used but keep in mind they are leaner and may benefit from a bit of added fat or moisture like an extra egg or some olive oil.

Final Thoughts

This Pepper Meatloaf with Dr. Pepper BBQ Glaze Recipe is a true labor of love that turns everyday ingredients into a show-stopping centerpiece. The way the sweet glaze blends with the peppery beef inside creates a harmony that’s both comforting and exciting. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite family dinner to treasure!

Pepper Meatloaf with BBQ Glaze Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need