Smoky Bourbon BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf Cupcakes with Mashed Potato Frosting

These Smoky Bourbon BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf Cupcakes with Mashed Potato Frosting are a delightful twist on classic comfort food. Individually portioned, these savory cupcakes combine the rich flavors of smoky bourbon-infused BBQ meatloaf, crispy bacon, and creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or any occasion that calls for a hearty and visually appealing dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Individual Servings: Easy to serve and portion, making them ideal for gatherings.
• Flavorful Combination: The smoky bourbon BBQ sauce adds depth to the meatloaf, complemented by the crispiness of bacon and the creaminess of mashed potatoes.
• Visually Appealing: Resembling cupcakes, they add a fun and elegant touch to your meal presentation.
• Versatile: Suitable as a main course or a substantial appetizer.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Components can be prepared in advance, simplifying meal prep.

Ingredients

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

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• ¼ cup finely chopped onion
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ cup smoky bourbon BBQ sauce (plus extra for topping)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 6–8 slices of bacon
• 2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared in advance and slightly cooled)
• 2 tbsp butter
• ¼ cup milk or cream
• Chives or crispy onions for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin.
2. Prepare Bacon Liners: Wrap each muffin cup with a slice of bacon, ensuring it lines the sides.
3. Mix Meatloaf: In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, Worcestershire sauce, BBQ sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
4. Fill Muffin Tins: Press the meat mixture into the bacon-lined cups, filling them about ¾ full.
5. Bake: Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through.
6. Add BBQ Glaze: Remove the tin from the oven, brush the tops of the meatloaf cupcakes with additional BBQ sauce, and return to the oven for 5 more minutes.
7. Prepare Mashed Potato Frosting: While the meatloaf bakes, warm the mashed potatoes with butter and milk until smooth and creamy. Transfer to a piping bag fitted with a star tip.
8. Frost Cupcakes: Once the meatloaf cupcakes are done, let them cool slightly. Pipe the mashed potatoes on top to resemble frosting.
9. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chives or crispy onions if desired, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6–8 cupcakes
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy Center: Insert a cube of cheddar cheese into the center of each meatloaf cupcake before baking for a gooey surprise.
• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture for added heat.
• Sweet Potato Frosting: Substitute mashed sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.
• Turkey Option: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or until heated through. Microwaving is also an option, though the bacon may lose some crispness.

FAQs

Can I make these meatloaf cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and bacon-lined muffin tin in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

How can I ensure the bacon gets crispy?

To achieve crispier bacon, consider partially cooking the bacon slices before lining the muffin tins. Alternatively, after baking, place the cupcakes under the broiler for a few minutes to crisp up the bacon.

Can I freeze these meatloaf cupcakes?

Yes, freeze the unfrosted meatloaf cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven. Prepare and add the mashed potato frosting after reheating.

What type of BBQ sauce works best?

A smoky bourbon BBQ sauce complements the flavors well, but feel free to use your favorite variety, whether it’s sweet, spicy, or tangy.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes for the frosting?

Yes, instant mashed potatoes can be used for convenience. Ensure they are thick enough to hold their shape when piped.

How do I prevent the meatloaf from becoming dry?

Avoid overmixing the meat mixture, as this can lead to a dense texture. Also, ensure not to overbake the cupcakes; use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 160°F (71°C).

Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?

Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf mixture?

Absolutely. Finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini can be added to the meat mixture for added nutrition and flavor.

What can I use instead of a piping bag?

If you don’t have a piping bag, you can use a zip-top plastic bag with a corner snipped off or simply spoon the mashed potatoes on top.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Incorporate spices like cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the meat mixture or BBQ sauce to increase the heat level.

Conclusion

Smoky Bourbon BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf Cupcakes with Mashed Potato Frosting offer a creative and delicious take on traditional meatloaf. Their individual portions make them perfect for entertaining, and the combination of flavors is sure to impress. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner or a special occasion, these savory cupcakes are a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort food to a new level.

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