Smoky Bourbon BBQ Meatloaf Cupcakes with Mashed Potato Frosting

Here’s a detailed recipe for Smoky Bourbon BBQ Meatloaf Cupcakes with Mashed Potato Frosting – a savory twist on cupcakes, packed with flavor and perfect for parties, dinner, or meal prep!

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🧁 Smoky Bourbon BBQ Meatloaf Cupcakes with Mashed Potato Frosting

🔥 Meatloaf Cupcake Ingredients (Makes ~12 cupcakes):

• 1 lb ground beef (85% lean works well)

• 1/2 lb ground pork (optional, or use all beef)

• 1/2 cup onion, finely diced

• 1/3 cup bell pepper, finely diced (red or green)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 3/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko or plain)

• 1/4 cup milk

• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 2 tbsp ketchup

• 1 large egg

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp chili powder

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

🥃 Bourbon BBQ Sauce (for glaze & topping):

• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)

• 1/4 cup bourbon

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

🥔 Mashed Potato Frosting:

• 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for lighter version)

• 1/4 cup butter

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• Optional: Shredded cheddar, chives, or crisp bacon for garnish

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🔪 Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mashed Potato Frosting:

1. Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 15–20 min).

2. Drain, then mash with butter, sour cream, and heavy cream until smooth.

3. Season with salt and pepper. Let cool slightly.

4. Transfer to a piping bag fitted with a large star or round tip. (You can also scoop and swirl if no bag.)

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2. Make the Bourbon BBQ Glaze:

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, mix all glaze ingredients.

2. Simmer 5–7 minutes until thickened slightly.

3. Set aside and cool.

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3. Prepare Meatloaf Mixture:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick spray.

2. In a bowl, mix milk and breadcrumbs. Let soak 2–3 minutes.

3. Add ground meats, diced onion, bell pepper, garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire, spices, and soaked breadcrumbs.

4. Mix gently until just combined – don’t overmix!

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4. Form and Bake Cupcakes:

1. Divide mixture evenly among 12 muffin tins – fill almost to the top and press down lightly.

2. Spoon or brush a little bourbon BBQ glaze on each meatloaf.

3. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).

4. Remove from oven and brush again with glaze. Let rest 5 minutes.

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5. Frost the Cupcakes:

1. Once cooled slightly, pipe mashed potatoes on top like frosting.

2. Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes to get a lightly browned top.

3. Garnish with chives, cheese, or bacon if desired.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with green beans, roasted veggies, or coleslaw.

• Great for parties or weeknight comfort food.

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🧊 Storage:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container up to 4 days.

• Freeze: Freeze meatloaf cupcakes (without mashed potatoes) up to 2 months. Add mashed potatoes fresh or pipe before serving and reheat gently.

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Would you like a printable version or meal prep tips with this?