If you want a fun twist on classic meatloaf with big BBQ flavor, these Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf Cupcakes are perfect. They’re mini meatloaves wrapped in crispy bacon, glazed with smoky bourbon BBQ sauce, and baked until juicy and caramelized.
Great for dinners, parties, or meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These “cupcakes” are smoky, savory, and packed with flavor.
Mini portion comfort food
Crispy bacon exterior
Sweet smoky BBQ glaze
Juicy and tender inside
Perfect for entertaining
Ingredients You’ll Need
Meatloaf Mixture
1½ lb (700g) ground beef
1 egg
½ cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and black pepper to taste
Bacon Wrap
8–10 slices bacon
Smoky Bourbon BBQ Sauce
½ cup BBQ sauce
1 tablespoon bourbon (optional but recommended)
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Optional Add-ins
Shredded cheese
Diced onions
Jalapeños
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf Cupcakes
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin.
Mix ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until combined.
Divide mixture into muffin cups.
Wrap each portion with a slice of bacon (tuck ends underneath).
Make the BBQ Glaze
Mix BBQ sauce, bourbon, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and vinegar in a bowl.
Bake
Bake for 20 minutes.
Brush tops with BBQ glaze and bake another 10–15 minutes until bacon is crispy and meat is fully cooked.
Optional: broil for 1–2 minutes for extra caramelization.
How to Serve
Serve warm as a main dish or appetizer. Pair with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or roasted veggies.
Tips for Best Results
Don’t overmix meat to keep it tender. Use thin bacon so it crisps well. Drain excess fat if needed. Let rest before removing from muffin tin.
Variations
Use ground turkey for a lighter version. Add cheese in the center for a stuffed version. Make it spicy with hot sauce or jalapeños. Skip bourbon for a non-alcoholic version.
Storage and Reheating
Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in oven or air fryer for best texture.
Final Thoughts
Smoky Bourbon BBQ Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf Cupcakes are juicy, smoky, and full of bold BBQ flavor. They’re fun, easy to make, and perfect for turning a classic dinner into something exciting.
