What makes this meatloaf different from traditional recipes?

My smoky bourbon-glazed meatloaf is a twist on the classic. It uses a rich bourbon BBQ sauce and bacon for flavor. Unlike others, it has a complex bourbon glaze instead of ketchup, giving it a deeper taste.

Can I substitute the bourbon in the recipe?

Yes, you can use apple juice or beef broth if you don't want bourbon. But bourbon adds a unique flavor. If you can't use bourbon, try a bourbon-flavored extract to get close to the taste.

How long does this meatloaf take to prepare and cook?

It takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to make and cook. You'll spend 20 minutes preparing, 10 minutes mixing, and 45 minutes baking. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.

What are the best side dishes to serve with this meatloaf?

Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a garden salad. Garlic green beans, butter-roasted carrots, or southern-style coleslaw are great choices. They match the meatloaf's smoky flavors well.

How can I store leftovers and how long will they keep?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The original recipe isn't gluten-free because of breadcrumbs. But, you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs. Always check the bourbon and BBQ sauce labels for gluten-free options.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make the meatloaf mixture and shape it up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the fridge. The bourbon glaze can also be made ahead. This is great for meal prep or entertaining.

Smoky Bourbon-Glazed Meatloaf: 7 Amazing Steps to Gourmet Success

Name: Smoky Bourbon-Glazed Meatloaf: Ultimate Recipe for Gourmet Comfort Food
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio); 1 cup quick cook oats; 1/2 cup whole milk; 2 large eggs; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 tablespoon kosher salt; 8-10 bacon strips; 1/4 cup cherry preserves; 1/3 cup bourbon; 1/2 cup barbecue sauce

Description

Transform your dinner table with this smoky bourbon-glazed meatloaf that combines rich bourbon BBQ sauce with crispy bacon. This gourmet twist on classic comfort food delivers restaurant-quality results at home with simple ingredients and expert techniques.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)

1 cup quick cook oats

1/2 cup whole milk

2 large eggs

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 tablespoon kosher salt

8–10 bacon strips

1/4 cup cherry preserves

1/3 cup bourbon

1/2 cup barbecue sauce

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and prepare a loaf pan with cooking spray

2. Combine ground beef, quick cook oats, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and kosher salt in large mixing bowl

3. Gently mix ingredients until just combined – avoid overmixing to maintain tender texture

4. Shape meat mixture into loaf and place in prepared baking pan

5. Wrap entire meatloaf with bacon strips, overlapping slightly for complete coverage

6. In small saucepan, combine cherry preserves, bourbon, and barbecue sauce for glaze

7. Heat glaze mixture over medium heat, stirring until smooth and well combined

8. Brush half of bourbon glaze over bacon-wrapped meatloaf before baking

9. Bake for 45 minutes, then brush with remaining glaze

10. Continue baking for 30 more minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F

11. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to retain juices

Notes

For best results, use 80/20 ground beef for optimal fat content and flavor

Don’t overmix the meat mixture to avoid tough texture

Use meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness at 160°F internal temperature

Let meatloaf rest before slicing to prevent juices from running out

Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 3-4 days

Can be frozen for up to 3 months in airtight container

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 425
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 890mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 125mg