Preheat the oven to 375 degrees and lightly grease a loaf pan.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cracker crumbs, smoked cheddar, 1/4 cup barbecue sauce, onion, eggs, milk, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix with your hands just until the ingredients come together.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and press it into an even shape. Spread the remaining 1/4 cup barbecue sauce over the top.
Bake for 50 to 55 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees. Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
merknader
Use a leaner ground beef if you prefer less fat rendering in the pan. Leftovers reheat nicely in a skillet with a splash of water to keep the edges from drying out. For a stronger brisket note, add an extra pinch of smoked paprika to the topping before baking.Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Mixing Bowl, Loaf Pan, Oven