Meatloaf is a timeless comfort food, but when you wrap it in bacon, infuse it with smoky bourbon BBQ sauce, and serve it in cupcake form with a mashed potato topping, you get something unforgettable. These Smoky Bourbon BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf Cupcakes are a playful yet satisfying dish that combines the hearty essence of traditional meatloaf with the fun presentation of cupcakes.Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or party appetizers, these individual meatloaf cupcakes are easy to prepare, full of bold flavor, and look amazing on the plate. Wrapping the mini meatloaves in bacon adds a crispy, smoky exterior that locks in moisture, while the bourbon BBQ sauce brings a sweet, tangy depth. The creamy mashed potato “frosting” completes the experience with a rich, velvety touch.Using a muffin tin not only creates convenient portions but also helps the meatloaf cook evenly and quickly. The result is a collection of perfectly shaped savory cupcakes with a golden bacon crust and a soft, juicy center. With minimal prep time and straightforward ingredients, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings where you still want to impress.
Whether you’re looking for a creative dinner idea or a fun dish to share with friends, these meatloaf cupcakes are sure to be a hit. Their smoky-sweet flavor, juicy texture, and eye-catching presentation make them a standout recipe that’s both kid-friendly and gourmet enough for adults.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp smoky bourbon BBQ sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 8 slices of bacon
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (smooth and firm enough for piping)
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin to prevent sticking. This will also help the bacon crisp up around the edges.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, smoky bourbon BBQ sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are incorporated, but avoid overmixing, as this can lead to tough meatloaf.
Step 3: Shape and Wrap
Divide the mixture into 8 equal parts. Form each into a ball, then shape into a cupcake-sized mound. Wrap each one with a slice of bacon and place it into the muffin tin cavity, seam-side down to help the bacon stay in place.
Step 4: Bake
Bake the cupcakes in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the meatloaf is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
Step 5: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
While the meatloaf cupcakes bake, prepare your mashed potatoes. For best results, make them thick and buttery, with enough stiffness to hold their shape when piped.
Step 6: Frost and Serve
Let the cupcakes cool slightly before topping. Use a piping bag with a large star tip or simply spoon the mashed potatoes on top like frosting. Garnish with chopped chives, shredded cheese, or a drizzle of BBQ sauce for extra flair.
These Smoky Bourbon BBQ Meatloaf Cupcakes offer the perfect combination of comfort and creativity, making them a great dish to serve anytime you want something hearty, delicious, and a little unexpected. Want some delicious side dish ideas to serve with them?
Suggested Hashtags (for social sharing)
#MeatloafCupcakes #BBQMeatloaf #ComfortFood #BaconWrappedGoodness #MashedPotatoFrosting #DinnerIdeas #EasyDinner #PartyAppetizers #FamilyMeals
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