Meatloaf Skewers – Juicy, Flavorful & Perfectly Portioned!

Looking for a fun twist on classic comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for meal prep or dinner parties? These Meatloaf Skewers are exactly what you need. Packed with all the savory, herby, meaty goodness of traditional meatloaf—but in a bite-sized, skewer format—this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s ready in under 30 minutes .

Perfect for backyard barbecues, weeknight dinners, or as an appetizer at your next gathering, these juicy meatloaf skewers combine ground beef, pork, breadcrumbs, and tangy ketchup into flavorful little bundles grilled to perfection. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers bold flavor without the mess.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make these delicious meatloaf skewers , explore ingredient substitutions, offer serving ideas, and answer your most common questions. Let’s get grilling!

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Why You’ll Love These Meatloaf Skewers

These aren’t just mini meatloaves on sticks—they’re a creative, handheld version of a classic dish made with real ingredients that bring comfort and flavor together beautifully.

Here’s why they stand out:

• 🥩 Classic meatloaf flavor : All the taste of grandma’s recipe, but easier to eat.
• 🔥 Grilled to juicy perfection : Skewers cook quickly and evenly.
• 🍽️ Portion-controlled bites : Great for portion control or party platters.
• ⏱️ Ready in under 30 minutes
• 🧁 Great for meal prep : Store and reheat easily for quick lunches or dinners.
• 🧼 Minimal cleanup : No loaf pan required—just mix, skewer, and grill.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your kids, or guests, these meatloaf skewers will quickly become a favorite.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meat Mixture:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• 1/2 lb (225g) ground pork or additional beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb/keto option)
• 1 large egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Glaze:

• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tbsp brown sugar or erythritol (for keto)
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar or Worcestershire sauce

Optional: BBQ sauce instead of ketchup glaze, or add diced bell peppers for extra color and texture.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Grill or Oven

Preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat or preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking.

Soak wooden skewers in water for 20–30 minutes to prevent burning.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large bowl, combine:

• Ground beef and pork
• Breadcrumbs
• Egg
• Chopped onion
• Garlic
• Worcestershire sauce
• Thyme
• Salt and pepper

Mix thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until fully combined. Don’t overmix or the meat can become tough.

Step 3: Shape the Meat Around Skewers

Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a sausage shape around a skewer, pressing firmly so it adheres well.

Tip: Make sure the meat is packed tightly around the skewer to prevent falling apart during cooking.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together:

• Ketchup
• Brown sugar or erythritol
• Apple cider vinegar or additional Worcestershire sauce

Set aside.

Step 5: Cook the Skewers

On the Grill:

Place skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side , turning frequently.

Brush with glaze during the last few minutes of cooking, flipping to glaze both sides.

In the Oven:

Place skewers on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Bake for 18–20 minutes , flipping halfway through.

Brush with glaze before serving or during the last 2–3 minutes of baking.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and let rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.

Serve warm with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad.

Enjoy every juicy, saucy bite of your Meatloaf Skewers !

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Makes 4 Servings)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~320 kcal
Total Fat	~20 g
Saturated Fat	~7 g
Cholesterol	~80 mg
Sodium	~500 mg
Total Carbs	~9 g
Dietary Fiber	~1 g
Net Carbs	~8 g
Protein	~25 g

Note: Values may vary slightly depending on brand and exact measurements.

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Tips for the Best Meatloaf Skewers

1. Use a meat thermometer – Ensures perfect doneness (160°F internal temperature).
2. Don’t skip the Worcestershire sauce – It adds depth and umami.
3. Pack the meat tightly – Prevents it from sliding off the skewers.
4. Glaze at the end – Prevents burning and gives a beautiful finish.
5. Try different meats – Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

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Variations & Customizations

Want to switch things up? Try these tasty variations:

Low-Carb/Keto Version

Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs and erythritol in the glaze.

Vegan Option

Use plant-based ground meat alternative and flax egg; omit glaze or use vegan Worcestershire.

Mini Appetizer Skewers

Make smaller portions and serve as cocktail skewers with dipping sauce.

Spicy Kick

Add hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or glaze.

Cheesy Stuffed Skewers

Insert a cube of cheddar cheese into the center of each skewer before grilling.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these ahead?

Yes! Assemble and refrigerate for up to 1 day before grilling or baking.

How do I store leftovers?

Store cooled skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

Can I freeze them?

Yes! Freeze cooked skewers in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes.

What kind of skewers should I use?

Wooden skewers work great but must be soaked first. Metal skewers are reusable and don’t require soaking.

Can I bake instead of grill?

Yes! Baking works just as well and still gives you that juicy result.

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Why This Recipe Works So Well

These Meatloaf Skewers work because of their perfect balance of texture, moisture, and flavor:

• The meat mixture stays juicy thanks to the fat content and proper mixing.
• The ketchup glaze adds sweetness and shine without overpowering the meat.
• And the skewer format makes them fun, easy to eat, and perfect for sharing .

It’s the kind of dish that makes comfort food feel exciting again—because it tastes so good.

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Serving Suggestions

Looking for creative ways to serve your meatloaf skewers beyond just a plate? Here are some ideas:

With Mashed Cauliflower

Pair with creamy mashed cauliflower for a modern, low-carb take.

Over Rice or Noodles

Spoon over rice, quinoa, or egg noodles for a hearty main dish.

In Sandwiches or Sliders

Top with melted cheese and serve on mini buns or lettuce wraps.

At a Party

Arrange on a platter with toothpicks and serve with ranch or BBQ dipping sauce.

With Veggies

Skewer alongside cherry tomatoes, zucchini slices, or mushrooms for a colorful twist.

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Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Let’s take a quick look at the health benefits of what makes this dish special:

Ground Beef

Rich in iron, zinc, and high-quality protein; supports muscle growth and energy levels.

Worcestershire Sauce

Contains trace minerals and enhances flavor without added sugar (use gluten-free if needed).

Garlic & Onion

Natural anti-inflammatories that support immune function and heart health.

Even though this is a comfort-style dish, it’s packed with nutrients that make it more than just a treat—it’s a smart addition to any balanced meal.

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Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Twist on Classic Comfort Food

These Meatloaf Skewers prove that comfort food doesn’t have to be boring or messy. With their juicy texture, rich meatloaf flavor, and fun skewer format, they’re the kind of dish that turns a classic into something fresh and exciting.

Whether you’re making them for dinner tonight, bringing them to a potluck, or packing them for lunch, these skewers deserve a spot in your kitchen. They’re easy to make, customizable, and loved by kids and adults alike.

So go ahead—fire up the grill, gather your family, and enjoy every delicious bite.

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