Irresistible Bourbon Bacon Meatloaf: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Prepare to redefine your expectations of comfort food with our spectacular Bourbon Bacon Meatloaf! This isn’t just any meatloaf; it’s a tender, juicy masterpiece packed with a double dose of smoky bacon – both mixed into the loaf and crisped on top. But the true star, the secret ingredient that elevates this dish from delicious to absolutely irresistible, is the rich and sweet bourbon glaze. Every bite is a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors that will leave you craving more.
Why This Isn’t Your Average Meatloaf (And How It Became a Family Favorite)
Let’s face it, meatloaf often gets a bad rap. For many, it conjures images of dry, bland, or oddly textured dinners from childhood. But it’s time to reclaim the glory of this versatile and incredibly satisfying dish! Our Bourbon Bacon Meatloaf challenges those preconceived notions, transforming a classic into a culinary revelation. This recipe is designed to be a worry-free dinner that will undoubtedly impress your friends and family, and might even earn you a reputation as the neighborhood’s go-to chef!
The key to overcoming the “bad meatloaf” stigma lies in thoughtful ingredient choices and a touch of creativity. Instead of relying solely on traditional binders and seasonings, we infuse this loaf with rich, smoky bacon and an unforgettable bourbon glaze. The result is a meatloaf that is consistently moist, incredibly flavorful, and anything but boring. It’s a dish that proves meatloaf can indeed be a gourmet experience, making it a perfect candidate for your next family gathering or a cozy weeknight meal.
The Magic of the Homemade Bourbon Glaze
While bacon plays a significant role in this recipe, the true “showstopper” is undoubtedly the homemade bourbon glaze. Don’t let the idea of cooking with alcohol intimidate you! The process is simple, and the payoff is immense. As the glaze simmers, the alcohol cooks off, leaving behind a profound depth of flavor that is both subtly sweet and wonderfully aromatic. This unique glaze transforms ordinary meatloaf into an extraordinary culinary experience.
The combination of sweet, caramelized preserves (cherry works beautifully, but feel free to experiment with others!) and tangy barbecue sauce melds perfectly with the distinct notes of bourbon. This creates a glaze that enhances the natural richness of the beef and the smoky essence of the bacon, bringing out their very best qualities. Once you master this glaze, you’ll gain confidence in your “fancy” cooking skills and likely find yourself incorporating it into other dishes.
Serving Suggestions: Complete Your Comfort Food Feast
Bourbon glazed meatloaf with bacon is a versatile main course that pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. For a balanced meal, consider serving it alongside some easy roasted green beans and creamy Cheddar Mashed Potatoes. If you’re looking to satisfy all your comfort food cravings, indulge in some comforting and delicious Instant Pot Ranch Potatoes and light, fluffy Oatmeal Dinner Rolls to soak up every last bit of that incredible glaze.
Other fantastic pairing ideas include a fresh garden salad, sautéed mushrooms, or even a side of roasted asparagus. For drinks, a medium-bodied red wine, a craft beer, or even a classic bourbon cocktail would complement the rich flavors of the meatloaf beautifully. Don’t forget to offer extra bourbon glaze on the side for those who love an extra drizzle!
What Do I Need To Make the Best Bourbon Bacon Meatloaf?
For the meatloaf:
- 2 lbs. ground beef (we recommend 80/20 for optimal flavor and moisture)
- ⅔ cup quick cook oats (acts as a binder and helps absorb moisture)
- ½ cup milk (contributes to a moist and tender texture)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten (essential binder to hold the loaf together)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (adds a savory, umami depth)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for aromatic flavor)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (enhances the savory base)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (a fundamental seasoning)
- 12 slices bacon, divided (for both inside the loaf and on top)
For the Bourbon Glaze:
- ¾ cup cherry preserves or any fruit preserves you have on hand (apricot, peach, or even blackberry work well)
- ¼ cup your favorite kind of bourbon (don’t worry, the alcohol cooks off, leaving only flavor. Whiskey or cognac can also be substituted for a slightly different profile!)
- ½ cup your preferred barbecue sauce (adds tang and a smoky note)
Step by Step Instructions: Crafting Your Perfect Meatloaf
Follow these detailed steps to create a show-stopping Bourbon Bacon Meatloaf that’s sure to impress:
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Surface. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature for even baking from the moment your meatloaf goes in. Line a baking sheet with nonstick aluminum foil or parchment paper. If you have a wire rack that fits inside the baking sheet, place it on top of the foil. This setup is crucial for allowing excess fat to drain away, preventing a greasy loaf, and ensuring the glaze doesn’t stick and burn to the pan, making cleanup much easier.
Step 2: Craft the Irresistible Bourbon Glaze. In a small saucepan, combine all the glaze ingredients: cherry preserves, bourbon, and barbecue sauce. Stir them well to ensure they are thoroughly combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it simmer, uncovered, for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld, thickens the glaze slightly, and cooks off the alcohol, leaving behind a rich, complex flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Prepare the Bacon. While the glaze is simmering, fry all 12 slices of bacon over medium heat until they are crisp. This step is crucial for adding a wonderful smoky flavor and texture. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. Crumble the crispy bacon into small pieces. Set aside approximately ¼ cup of the crumbled bacon to use for topping the meatloaf later. The rest will be incorporated into the meatloaf mixture.
Step 4: Combine Meatloaf Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef and the majority of the crumbled bacon (reserving that ¼ cup for later). Then, add the quick cook oats, milk, lightly beaten eggs, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and kosher salt. It’s best to use your hands for this step to ensure everything is thoroughly combined. Mix everything well, but be careful not to overwork the mixture. Overmixing can result in a tough, dense meatloaf.
Step 5: Shape Your Meatloaf. Gently form the meat mixture into a loaf shape. Aim for a rectangular or oval shape, as uniform thickness helps the meatloaf cook more evenly and prevents the ends from becoming overcooked and dry. You can shape it directly on your prepared baking sheet or on the wire rack if you’re using one. Ensure it’s centered on the foil-lined surface.
Step 6: First Glaze and Bake. Pour a generous amount of the prepared bourbon glaze all over the top and sides of the meatloaf, ensuring it’s well coated. This initial layer will caramelize and create an incredible crust. Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 50 minutes. Halfway through the baking time (around the 25-minute mark), remove the meatloaf from the oven and baste it with another layer of the delicious bourbon glaze. This technique builds layers of flavor and ensures a beautiful, sticky finish.
Step 7: Final Bake with Bacon Topping. After the initial 50 minutes of baking and basting, carefully add the reserved ¼ cup of crispy crumbled bacon pieces on top of the meatloaf. Return it to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part. The bacon topping will crisp up beautifully during this final stage.
Step 8: Rest, Slice, and Serve. Once the meatloaf reaches the correct internal temperature, remove it from the oven. It’s crucial to let the meatloaf rest for at least 10-15 minutes before cutting into it. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the loaf, ensuring every slice is incredibly moist and flavorful. Slicing too soon will result in a dry, crumbly meatloaf. Serve generous slices with any remaining bourbon glaze on the side for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy!
Tips for Meatloaf Perfection
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the meatloaf ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can compact the meat, leading to a tough texture.
- Choose the Right Beef: We recommend 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat). The fat content is crucial for a moist and flavorful meatloaf. Leaner beef tends to dry out more easily.
- Resting is Key: Don’t skip the resting period after baking! This allows the internal juices to redistribute throughout the loaf, ensuring every slice is juicy and tender.
- Experiment with Preserves: While cherry preserves offer a classic sweet and tart note, feel free to try other fruit preserves like apricot, peach, or even a spicy pepper jelly for a unique twist on the glaze.
- Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatloaf is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). This prevents guesswork and ensures food safety.
- Prevent Sticking: Using nonstick aluminum foil or a wire rack is essential to prevent the sticky bourbon glaze from baking onto your pan and making cleanup a chore.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Leftover Bourbon Bacon Meatloaf
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (it’s rare, but it happens!), Bourbon Bacon Meatloaf is just as delicious the next day and incredibly versatile. Store any remaining meatloaf tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Here are some ideas to repurpose it:
- Meatloaf Sandwiches: Slice cold meatloaf thinly and layer it on toasted bread with a dollop of extra glaze, some cheese, lettuce, and tomato for an epic sandwich.
- Meatloaf Hash: Dice leftover meatloaf and pan-fry it with potatoes, onions, and bell peppers for a hearty breakfast or brunch hash, topped with a fried egg.
- Meatloaf Chili: Crumble the meatloaf and add it to your favorite chili recipe for extra depth and richness.
- Meatloaf Sliders: Cut the meatloaf into smaller patties and serve them on slider buns with some cheese and a pickle.
- Meatloaf Stuffed Peppers: Dice and mix with a little rice and sauce, then stuff into bell peppers and bake until tender.
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Bourbon Bacon Meatloaf
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Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- ⅔ cup quick cook oats
- ½ cup milk
- 2 eggs lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 12 slices bacon (divided)
For the glaze:
- 3/4 cup cherry preserves (or any other fruit preserve)
- 1/4 cup bourbon (or any kind of whiskey or cognac)
- 1/2 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce
Instructions
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Set oven to 350 degrees F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with nonstick aluminum foil or parchment paper, possibly with a wire rack.
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To make the glaze, put all the ingredients (cherry preserves, bourbon, barbecue sauce) in a sauce pan and stir to combine. Bring to a boil then lower the heat and simmer, uncovered, for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Meanwhile, fry the slices of bacon until crisp. Crumble into small pieces, reserving about ¼ cup for the top of the meatloaf.
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Add the ground beef and the majority of the crumbled bacon to a large mixing bowl.
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Add the oats, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder and salt to the bowl. Mix everything well with your hands, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
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Form the meat into a rectangular or oval loaf shape on your prepared baking sheet.
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Pour a generous amount of the bourbon glaze all over the meatloaf and bake it for about 50 minutes. Baste again with a generous layer of glaze halfway through the baking time.
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Add the reserved bacon pieces to the top of the meatloaf and bake for another 10 minutes or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf is 160 degrees F (71°C).
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Remove the meatloaf and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before cutting it. Serve with any remaining glaze on the side.
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Final Thoughts on This Unforgettable Meatloaf
This Bourbon Bacon Meatloaf is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s about bringing together bold flavors, transforming a classic into something truly special, and creating lasting memories around the dinner table. With its tender texture, smoky bacon goodness, and that luscious bourbon glaze, it’s destined to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a chilly evening, a standout dish for entertaining, or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers on all fronts. We encourage you to gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and embark on a delicious journey that will delight your taste buds. Don’t forget to share your creations and feedback with us – we love to hear about your cooking adventures!
