Bacon Bourbon Meatloaf is not your average meatloaf—it’s a rich, flavorful dish that takes the beloved comfort food to new heights. Imagine a tender, juicy meatloaf infused with the smoky sweetness of bourbon, topped with a sticky, caramelized glaze that’s packed with the savory goodness of bacon. Each bite is a perfect blend of flavors: the bold, robust taste of bourbon, the sweet tang of the glaze, and the satisfying crunch of crispy bacon. This isn’t just meatloaf; it’s an experience—a dish that’s sure to impress at family dinners, gatherings, or any occasion where you want to serve something that’s both comforting and unforgettable.

Photo byE Kent

The magic of Bacon Bourbon Meatloaf lies in its layers of flavor. The meat mixture itself is enriched with a splash of bourbon, adding a subtle depth that enhances the savory notes of the beef. The addition of bacon inside and on top of the meatloaf ensures that every bite is infused with its smoky, salty goodness. The crowning glory is the bourbon glaze, which caramelizes as it bakes, creating a rich, sticky coating that perfectly complements the tender meat beneath. It’s a dish that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat, combining the familiarity of a classic meatloaf with the bold, exciting flavors of bourbon and bacon.

What makes this Bacon Bourbon Meatloaf even more irresistible is its versatility. It’s a dish that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough to serve at a dinner party. Pair it with classic sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to satisfy even the heartiest appetites. And if you’re looking to elevate your leftovers, a slice of this meatloaf makes for an incredible sandwich, especially when paired with some tangy pickles and a smear of spicy mustard. Whether you’re a meatloaf aficionado or just looking for a new way to enjoy a classic, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Serving Suggestions:

- Serve Bacon Bourbon Meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic, comforting meal.

- Pair it with roasted root vegetables or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the meatloaf.

- For an indulgent twist, top each slice with a fried egg and serve with a side of crispy hash browns.

- Use leftover meatloaf to make hearty sandwiches, adding pickles, mustard, and lettuce for extra flavor.

- Drizzle extra bourbon glaze over the meatloaf before serving to enhance its rich, caramelized finish.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):

• • - Calories: 450
  • - Total Fat: 28g
  • - Saturated Fat: 10g
  • - Cholesterol: 120mg
  • - Sodium: 900mg
  • - Total Carbohydrates: 20g
  • - Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • - Sugars: 10g
  • - Protein: 25g

Storage Information:

- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

- This meatloaf can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.

- Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a little extra glaze if needed to keep the meatloaf moist.

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Bacon Bourbon Meatloaf Recipe

Ingredients:

• - 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• - 1/2 pound bacon, diced and divided
• - 1 cup breadcrumbs
• - 1/2 cup milk
• - 1 large onion, finely chopped
• - 2 cloves garlic, minced
• - 1/4 cup bourbon
• - 1 large egg
• - 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• - 1/4 cup ketchup
• - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• - 1/4 cup brown sugar
• - 1 teaspoon salt
• - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Bourbon Glaze:

• - 1/4 cup bourbon
• - 1/4 cup brown sugar
• - 1/4 cup ketchup
• - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

   - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.

2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:

   - In a large skillet, cook half of the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels to drain.

   - In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in the bacon drippings until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

   - In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked bacon, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Add the sautéed onions and garlic, along with the bourbon. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

3. Shape the Meatloaf:

   - Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, smoothing out the top.

4. Make the Bourbon Glaze:

   - In a small saucepan, combine the bourbon, brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the glaze thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.

5. Bake the Meatloaf:

   - Brush the meatloaf generously with the bourbon glaze. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

   - Halfway through the baking time, brush the meatloaf with more glaze and add the remaining diced bacon on top.

6. Serve:

   - Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve with extra glaze on the side, if desired.

Enjoy your Bacon Bourbon Meatloaf, a bold and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. With its rich glaze, smoky bacon, and tender meat, this meatloaf is perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to special gatherings.