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

 

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

If you’re looking for a show-stopping comfort food that blends smoky, savory, sweet, and creamy flavors into one irresistible bite, these Smoky Bourbon BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf Cupcakes are guaranteed to steal the spotlight. Topped with silky mashed potato “frosting,” they turn classic meatloaf into a fun, flavorful, and downright addictive individual serving. Perfect for parties, weeknight dinners, or any time you want to impress, this recipe redefines comfort food with flair.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fun presentation: Cupcake-style portions make serving easy and eye-catching.

• Flavor-packed: Bacon, bourbon BBQ sauce, and seasoned meatloaf create a bold, smoky-sweet bite.

• Comfort on comfort: Creamy mashed potato frosting makes these cupcakes unforgettable.

• Customizable: Adjust sweetness, spice, or smokiness to match your style.

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Ingredients

For the Meatloaf Cupcakes:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

• 1 egg

• ½ onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup smoky bourbon BBQ sauce (plus extra for topping)

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp pepper

• 12 slices of bacon

For the Mashed Potato Frosting:

• 3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 3 tbsp butter

• ½ cup milk

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: shredded cheddar or chives for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Combine gently—don’t overmix or the meat will get dense.

2. Wrap the Cupcakes

Line each cup of a muffin tin with a slice of bacon. Press the meat mixture into each cup, filling almost to the top.

3. Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the cupcakes for 20 minutes, then brush the tops with extra BBQ sauce. Return to oven for another 10–15 minutes, until the bacon is crisp and the meatloaf is cooked through.

4. Make the Mashed Potato Frosting

Boil potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and fluffy. Let cool slightly so they hold shape when piped.

5. Frost the Cupcakes

Remove meatloaf cupcakes from the muffin tin and pipe or spoon mashed potatoes on top. Garnish with cheddar, chives, or a drizzle of BBQ sauce.

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Tips for Perfect Meatloaf Cupcakes

• Pipe the potatoes: Use a piping bag with a star tip for a true “cupcake” look.

• Crispier bacon: Partially cook bacon for 3–4 minutes before wrapping the cups.

• Flavor boost: Add a splash of bourbon to your BBQ sauce for extra smokiness.

• More moisture: Mix in a tablespoon of milk or ketchup if your meat mixture feels dry.

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Serving Ideas

Pair these savory cupcakes with:

• Roasted vegetables

• A crisp green salad

• Coleslaw

• Extra mashed potatoes (because… why not?)

They also make fantastic appetizers for game days, potlucks, and parties.

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These Smoky Bourbon BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf Cupcakes with Mashed Potato Frosting are a delicious mix of fun presentation, bold flavors, and cozy comfort. One bite and you’ll wonder why meatloaf wasn’t always made this way.