Bourbon BBQ Bacon Meatloaf: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Bourbon BBQ Bacon Meatloaf: Prepare to experience meatloaf like never before! Forget everything you thought you knew about this classic comfort food because we’re about to elevate it to a whole new level of deliciousness. Imagine a tender, juicy meatloaf infused with the smoky sweetness of bourbon barbecue sauce, then wrapped in crispy, savory bacon. Are you drooling yet?

Meatloaf itself has a fascinating history, evolving from humble beginnings as a way to use leftover scraps of meat into a beloved dish enjoyed around the world. Different cultures have their own variations, but the core concept remains the same: a hearty, satisfying meal that brings people together. This particular twist, the Bourbon BBQ Bacon Meatloaf, takes inspiration from American barbecue traditions, adding a touch of Southern charm and bold flavor.

People adore meatloaf for its simplicity and comforting qualities. It’s a dish that evokes memories of home-cooked meals and family gatherings. But let’s be honest, sometimes meatloaf can be a little… boring. That’s where the bourbon barbecue sauce and bacon come in! The bourbon adds a depth of flavor and subtle warmth, while the barbecue sauce provides a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the savory meat. And who can resist the crispy, smoky goodness of bacon? This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this unforgettable twist on a classic!

Ingredients:

• For the Meatloaf:
• 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• 1 pound ground pork
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup finely diced yellow onion
• 1/4 cup finely diced green bell pepper
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
• For the Bourbon BBQ Sauce:
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
• For the Bacon Weave Topping:
• 12 slices thick-cut bacon

Preparing the Bourbon BBQ Sauce:

Okay, let’s get started with the star of the show – the Bourbon BBQ Sauce! This sauce is seriously addictive, and trust me, you’ll want to slather it on everything.

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the ketchup, bourbon whiskey, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Simmer the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
3. Taste and Adjust: After simmering, taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a little more brown sugar. For a tangier sauce, add a splash more apple cider vinegar. If you want more heat, add a pinch more cayenne pepper.
4. Cool Slightly: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the sauce cool slightly before using. This will help it thicken further. You can store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Making the Meatloaf Mixture:

Now, let’s move on to the meatloaf itself. Don’t be intimidated – it’s easier than you think! The key is to combine the ingredients gently to avoid a tough meatloaf.

1. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, panko breadcrumbs, diced yellow onion, and diced green bell pepper. Make sure your onion and bell pepper are finely diced, so they cook evenly in the meatloaf.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, milk, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour this mixture over the meat and vegetable mixture in the large bowl.
3. Incorporate the Spices: Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the bowl.
4. Gently Combine: Using your hands (or a large spoon), gently combine all the ingredients until just mixed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough meatloaf. The mixture should be evenly distributed but not compacted.
5. Fold in the Bacon: Gently fold in the crumbled crispy bacon. This adds a fantastic smoky flavor and a bit of texture to the meatloaf.

Forming and Baking the Meatloaf:

Almost there! Now it’s time to shape the meatloaf and get it into the oven. The bacon weave topping adds a beautiful presentation and extra bacon goodness.

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
3. Form the Meatloaf: Gently transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Shape it into an even loaf, pressing down lightly to ensure it’s compact but not too dense.
4. Apply the Bourbon BBQ Sauce: Generously brush about half of the prepared Bourbon BBQ sauce over the top of the meatloaf. This will create a delicious, caramelized crust.
5. Create the Bacon Weave: This is where things get fun! Lay out 6 slices of bacon side by side on a sheet of parchment paper. Fold back every other slice of bacon. Place one slice of bacon perpendicular across the unfolded bacon slices. Unfold the folded bacon slices. Now, fold back the opposite bacon slices (the ones that were unfolded before). Place another slice of bacon perpendicular across the unfolded bacon slices. Unfold the folded bacon slices. Repeat this process until you have a bacon weave using all 12 slices of bacon.
6. Transfer the Bacon Weave: Carefully lift the bacon weave from the parchment paper and place it on top of the meatloaf, pressing it gently to adhere.
7. Bake the Meatloaf: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
8. Rest and Glaze: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf. While it’s resting, brush the remaining Bourbon BBQ sauce over the bacon weave topping.

Serving and Enjoying:

The moment you’ve been waiting for! Time to slice, serve, and savor every bite of this incredible Bourbon BBQ Bacon Meatloaf.

1. Slice the Meatloaf: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the meatloaf into even slices.
2. Serve and Garnish: Serve the meatloaf hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra crumbled bacon (because why not?).
3. Pairing Suggestions: This meatloaf pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, coleslaw, or a simple green salad.
4. Storage: Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Tips for the Best Meatloaf:

• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture will result in a tough meatloaf. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is your best friend when making meatloaf. It ensures that the meatloaf is cooked to a safe internal temperature without being overcooked.
• Let it Rest: Letting the meatloaf rest after baking is crucial for retaining moisture and flavor.
• Customize the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the Bourbon BBQ sauce to your liking. Add more bourbon for a stronger flavor, or more brown sugar for a sweeter sauce.
• Get Creative with Toppings: While the bacon weave is amazing, you can also get creative with other toppings. Try adding caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or even a layer of cheese.

Variations:

• Spicy Meatloaf: Add a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture for a spicy kick.
• Italian Meatloaf: Use Italian sausage instead of ground pork, and add Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese to the meatloaf mixture.
• Turkey Meatloaf: Substitute ground turkey for the ground beef and pork for a leaner option.

Conclusion:

This Bourbon BBQ Bacon Meatloaf isn’t just another meatloaf recipe; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! From the smoky bacon woven throughout to the sweet and tangy kiss of bourbon barbecue sauce, every bite is a testament to comfort food elevated. I truly believe this will become a family favorite, and here’s why you absolutely must give it a try. First, the combination of textures is simply divine. The moist and tender meatloaf base, studded with crispy bacon bits, creates a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for more. Then there’s the sauce – oh, the sauce! The bourbon adds a depth of flavor that you just can’t get from regular barbecue sauce, creating a complex and irresistible glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory, making it a truly unforgettable dish. But the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make! With just a few simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip up this masterpiece in no time. Forget those dry, bland meatloaves of the past; this recipe is all about maximum flavor with minimal effort. And the possibilities don’t stop there! Feel free to get creative with your serving suggestions and variations. For a classic pairing, serve slices of this glorious Bourbon BBQ Bacon Meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans. Or, for a more casual meal, pile it high on toasted buns for a mouthwatering meatloaf sandwich. You could even crumble it over a salad for a protein-packed lunch. Looking for variations? Try adding a touch of heat with a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture. Or, for a sweeter twist, incorporate some diced pineapple into the bacon weave. You could also experiment with different types of barbecue sauce – a spicy chipotle barbecue sauce would add a smoky kick, while a honey barbecue sauce would enhance the sweetness. Get creative and make it your own! I’m confident that this Bourbon BBQ Bacon Meatloaf will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s the perfect dish for a weeknight dinner, a weekend gathering, or any occasion that calls for a hearty and satisfying meal. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I can’t wait to hear what you think. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience meatloaf like never before. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and discover the magic of Bourbon BBQ Bacon Meatloaf for yourself. Once you’ve made it, please, please, please come back and share your experience! Let me know what you thought of the recipe, what variations you tried, and how your family and friends enjoyed it. Your feedback is invaluable, and I love hearing about your culinary adventures. Share your photos, your tips, and your stories – let’s create a community of meatloaf lovers! Happy cooking!

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