Smoky Bourbon BBQ Meatloaf Cupcakes

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π‡πŽπ– πƒπŽ π˜πŽπ” 𝐅𝐄𝐄𝐋 π€ππŽπ”π“ Smoky Bourbon BBQ Meatloaf Cupcakes? πŸ₯“πŸ₯”πŸ§

Who says cupcakes have to be sweet? These Smoky Bourbon BBQ Meatloaf Cupcakes topped with buttery mashed potato swirls are the ultimate comfort food mashup. Imagine juicy mini meatloaves glazed with rich bourbon barbecue sauce, crowned with creamy mashed potatoes that look just like frostingβ€”deliciously savory and perfect for dinner parties, family meals, or even game day.

Not only are these fun and impressive, but they also bake faster than a traditional meatloaf, making them a weeknight-friendly twist on a classic dish.

🌟 Ingredients

πŸ₯© For the Meatloaf Cupcakes

  • 1Β½ lbs ground beef (85/15 blend)

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped πŸ§…

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced πŸ§„

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs

  • 1 large egg πŸ₯š

  • Β½ cup milk πŸ₯›

  • Β½ cup bourbon BBQ sauce (plus extra for glazing) πŸ₯ƒπŸ–

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika 🌢️

  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

  • Β½ tsp black pepper

  • Β½ tsp salt πŸ§‚

πŸ₯” For the Mashed Potato Frosting

  • 3 large russet potatoes, peeled & cubed πŸ₯”

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter 🧈

  • Β½ cup warm milk or cream πŸ₯›

  • Salt & pepper to taste πŸ§‚

  • Optional: chives or crispy bacon bits for garnish πŸ₯“πŸŒΏ

πŸ‘©β€πŸ³ Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potato Frosting

  1. Boil peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15–20 minutes.

  2. Drain and mash with butter, warm milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.

  3. Transfer to a piping bag with a star tip for later β€œfrosting.”

Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Mixture

  1. Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C) and grease a 12-cup muffin tin.

  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Β½ cup bourbon BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.

  3. Mix gently until just combinedβ€”don’t overmix to keep the meatloaf tender.

Step 3: Form & Bake the Meatloaf Cupcakes

  1. Divide the meat mixture evenly among 12 muffin cups, pressing lightly.

  2. Brush the tops with extra bourbon BBQ sauce.

  3. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches 160Β°F (71Β°C) internally.

  4. Remove and let rest for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Frost & Serve

  1. Pipe the mashed potato frosting on top of each mini meatloaf.

  2. Garnish with chopped chives or crispy bacon bits for an extra savory kick.

  3. Serve warm and enjoy your dinner cupcakes! 🧁πŸ”₯

⏱️ Recipe Info

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes

  • Cook Time: 25 minutes

  • Total Time: 45 minutes

  • Servings: 12 meatloaf cupcakes

πŸ’‘ Pro Tips

  • For extra smoky flavor, add a dash of liquid smoke to the meat mixture.

  • Pipe the potatoes while warm for the smoothest swirl.

  • These cupcakes reheat well in the oven at 325Β°F for 10–12 minutes.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve these savory cupcakes with:

  • Steamed green beans or roasted veggies πŸ₯¦

  • A side of extra BBQ sauce for dipping

  • Crispy onion rings or a light salad to complete the meal

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