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

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These smoky bourbon BBQ bacon-wrapped meatloaf cupcakes are packed with savory flavor and topped with creamy mashed potato ‘frosting’ for a fun and hearty twist on classic comfort food.

  • Author: Beth
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 68 cupcakes 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 lb ground pork
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup smoky BBQ sauce
  • 2 tablespoons bourbon
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 68 slices bacon
  • 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (for mashed potatoes)
  • 1/4 cup milk or cream (for mashed potatoes)
  • Chopped chives or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, egg, BBQ sauce, bourbon, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
  3. Line each muffin cup with a slice of bacon around the edge.
  4. Fill each bacon-lined cup with the meat mixture, pressing gently to pack.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the meat is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
  6. While the meatloaf cupcakes bake, prepare mashed potatoes with butter and milk or cream until smooth and creamy. Season to taste.
  7. Once cupcakes are done, remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
  8. Pipe or spoon mashed potatoes on top of each meatloaf cupcake like frosting.
  9. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Use a piping bag for a more decorative mashed potato topping.
  • You can make these ahead of time and reheat before serving.
  • Try a mix of cheddar cheese in the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cupcake
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

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