Meatloaf Skewers

Meatloaf Skewers are a fun, flavorful twist on the classic comfort food, packed with smoky BBQ flavor and perfect for grilling or air-frying. These keto-friendly meat skewers are juicy, satisfying, and ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or your next backyard cookout. With minimal ingredients and big flavor, they’re sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These skewers bring all the savory satisfaction of traditional meatloaf—with a faster cook time and a fun, portable presentation. They’re easy to prepare, naturally low in carbs, and versatile enough for air frying or grilling. Plus, the smoky-sweet BBQ glaze caramelizes perfectly for a crave-worthy finish. Great for weeknights, entertaining, or even prepping ahead for busy days.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 lbs (907g) ground beef

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 large egg

• ½ cup (143g) sugar-free BBQ sauce

Directions

1. Soak the Skewers (if using bamboo):
   If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for at least 1 hour to prevent burning. If air-frying, you may need to trim the skewers to fit inside your air fryer basket.

2. Preheat Your Cooking Method:

   • Air fryer: Preheat to 400°F (200°C).

   • Grill: Preheat to medium-high heat.

3. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and the egg. Mix thoroughly with your hands until well combined.

4. Form and Skewer the Meat:
   Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then shape into an oval log around each skewer.

5. Brush with BBQ Sauce:
   Reserve half of the BBQ sauce for serving. Use the remaining half to brush over the formed skewers before cooking.

6. Cook the Meatloaf Skewers:

   • Air Fryer: Cook for 12–15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), turning once if needed.

   • Grill: Grill for about 5 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), with a nice char on the outside.

7. Serve:
   Brush the cooked skewers with the reserved BBQ sauce and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8 meatloaf skewers
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories per serving: Approximately 300–350 kcal (varies based on BBQ sauce and meat type)

Variations

• Spicy kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the meat mixture.

• Cheesy version: Mix in shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a gooey center.

• Sauce swap: Use a spicy chipotle BBQ sauce or keto-friendly teriyaki glaze instead.

• Mini skewers: Use shorter skewers to make appetizer-sized meatloaf bites for parties.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

To freeze, wrap cooked and cooled skewers in foil or place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

To reheat, warm in the air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–8 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them in 30-second intervals.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and form the skewers up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Can I bake them instead?

Yes, bake in a 400°F (200°C) oven on a lined baking sheet for 18–20 minutes, or until fully cooked.

What skewers should I use?

Bamboo skewers are fine, but metal skewers are reusable and don’t require soaking. Just be sure they fit your cooking device.

Can I make this recipe without skewers?

Absolutely! Shape the meat into logs or patties and cook them on a grill or in a skillet—same great flavor, no skewers needed.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, especially if you use sugar-free BBQ sauce and avoid any starchy sides.

What sides go well with meatloaf skewers?

Try them with coleslaw, roasted vegetables, cauliflower mash, or grilled zucchini for a low-carb meal.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken?

Yes, but reduce cooking time slightly and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for poultry.

How do I know when they’re done?

Use an instant-read thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for beef or 165°F (74°C) for poultry.

Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?

Yes, any BBQ sauce works. Choose a sugar-free or keto-friendly version if needed.

How do I keep them from sticking to the grill?

Brush the grill with oil before cooking or use a grill mat or foil to prevent sticking.

Conclusion

Meatloaf Skewers are a fun and flavorful twist on a traditional favorite, offering all the comfort of meatloaf with the ease and excitement of grilled or air-fried skewers. Juicy, well-seasoned, and coated in smoky BBQ sauce, they’re ideal for any occasion—from family dinners to outdoor cookouts. Simple to make and endlessly customizable, this is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

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