How do I know when bourbon BBQ bacon wrapped meatloaf cupcakes are fully cooked?

Guidance: Provide a clear answer about using a meat thermometer, specifying the safe internal temperature (160°F or 165°F, explain reason for discrepancy if any). Mention visual cues if helpful. This satisfies safety concerns and targets search intent around doneness.

Can I prepare bourbon BBQ bacon wrapped meatloaf cupcakes in advance or freeze them?

Guidance: Explain options for making ahead (like assembling and refrigerating before baking), freezing tips (such as freezing without topping), and best reheating methods to maintain texture and flavor. Address concerns about convenience and food safety.

What type of ground beef and bacon should I use for the best meatloaf cupcakes?

Guidance: Discuss fat ratios in ground beef for moist, flavorful results (around 80/20), types or cuts of bacon for wrapping that cook well, and whether to partially pre-cook bacon or not. This supports users aiming for recipe success.

How can I make and pipe the mashed potato frosting for bourbon BBQ bacon wrapped meatloaf cupcakes?

Guidance: Describe ideal potato types for frosting (russet, Yukon Gold), how to achieve smooth, thick consistency suitable for piping, and tips on adjusting texture. This addresses a unique feature of the recipe and appeals to presentation-focused searches.

What are some easy variations or substitutions for bourbon BBQ bacon wrapped meatloaf cupcakes?

Guidance: Include flavor swaps for BBQ sauce, adding spices or herbs, stuffing options, or alternative toppings. This answers curiosity about customization and can link to other recipes or ingredient guides on your site.

Bourbon BBQ Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf Cupcakes Recipe to Try

Name: Smoky Bourbon BBQ Meatloaf Cupcakes Wrapped in Crispy Bacon
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-486087H34M1S
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb (approximately 450 g) ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio recommended); 1/2 cup (about 50 g) breadcrumbs (panko preferred); 1/4 cup (60 ml) ketchup or smoky bourbon BBQ sauce; 2 tbsp (30 ml) Worcestershire sauce; 1 tbsp (15 ml) smoky bourbon BBQ sauce (if ketchup is used separately); 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 8 slices center-cut or regular-cut bacon; 2 cups (about 450 g) mashed potatoes (made from russet and Yukon Gold potatoes with butter and cream or milk for smooth piping); Optional garnishes: chopped chives, parsley, paprika, crumbled bacon

Description

🥓 Enjoy smoky bourbon BBQ meatloaf cupcakes wrapped in crispy bacon for a unique and delicious twist on classic comfort food.
🍖 These savory cupcakes topped with creamy mashed potato frosting make an impressive yet easy-to-make meal perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb (approximately 450 g) ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio recommended)
1/2 cup (about 50 g) breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
1/4 cup (60 ml) ketchup or smoky bourbon BBQ sauce
2 tbsp (30 ml) Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp (15 ml) smoky bourbon BBQ sauce (if ketchup is used separately)
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
8 slices center-cut or regular-cut bacon
2 cups (about 450 g) mashed potatoes (made from russet and Yukon Gold potatoes with butter and cream or milk for smooth piping)
Optional garnishes: chopped chives, parsley, paprika, crumbled bacon

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, ketchup (or half the BBQ sauce), Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and half of the bourbon BBQ sauce. Mix gently.
3. Divide mixture into 8 portions, pressing each firmly into muffin cups with a slight depression on top.
4. Brush remaining BBQ sauce on top of each portion.
5. Wrap each cupcake with a slice of bacon spirally from bottom to top, tucking ends underneath. Partial pre-cook bacon for 2-3 minutes if desired.
6. Bake 25-30 minutes until bacon is crisp and internal temp reaches 160-165°F (71-74°C). Drain excess fat halfway if needed.
7. Meanwhile, boil peeled russet and Yukon Gold potatoes until tender. Mash with butter and cream or milk until smooth and pipeable. Warm before piping.
8. Let meatloaf cupcakes rest 5-10 minutes in the tin.
9. Pipe mashed potatoes on top of each cupcake in a swirl.
10. Garnish with chives, parsley, paprika, or BBQ sauce drizzle. Serve warm.

Notes

🍖 Use 80/20 ground beef ratio for juiciness; leaner meat can be dry.
🥓 Partially pre-cook bacon to reduce shrinkage and improve crispness.
🥄 Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness every time.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cupcake
Calories: 350
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 680 mg
Fat: 22 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 24 g
Cholesterol: 85 mg

Keywords: smoky bourbon BBQ, meatloaf cupcakes, bacon wrapped, mashed potato topping