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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf Cupcakes:

1½ lbs ground beef (or a beef/pork blend)

1 cup breadcrumbs

1/2 cup milk

1/2 cup finely chopped onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 large egg

2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 cup smoky bourbon BBQ sauce (plus more for brushing)

12 slices of bacon (thin-cut works best)

For the Mashed Potato Frosting:

2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed

4 tbsp butter

1/2 cup milk or heavy cream

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: 1/4 cup sour cream or cream cheese for extra creaminess

Optional: chives or crispy onions for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large bowl, soak breadcrumbs in milk for 2–3 minutes.

3. Add ground meat, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire, paprika, salt, pepper, and 1/2 cup bourbon BBQ sauce. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork it.

 

Step 2: Assemble the Cupcakes

4. Line each cavity of a 12-cup muffin tin with one slice of bacon (wrap it around the sides).

5. Divide the meat mixture evenly into each cup, pressing gently to shape like a cupcake.

6. Brush the tops with additional bourbon BBQ sauce.

 

Step 3: Bake

7. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until internal temp hits 160°F (71°C).

8. Let rest for 5 minutes before removing from the tin.

Step 4: Make the Mashed Potato Frosting

9. While meatloaf bakes, boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (15–20 mins).

10. Drain and mash with butter, milk/cream, salt, and pepper. Add sour cream or cream cheese if using.

11. Pipe or spoon mashed potatoes on top of cooled meatloaf “cupcakes” like frosting.