Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty meal that the whole family will love, then this Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf Recipe is just what you need! It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, filling the air with delicious aromas. This meatloaf is a fun twist on a classic, thanks to its rich bourbon glaze and scrumptious crumb crust. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply trying to whip up something special on a busy weeknight, this recipe will not disappoint!

What makes this meatloaf even more special is how easy it is to put together. You’ll find that most of these ingredients are likely already in your pantry, making it a convenient choice for those nights when you want something delicious without too much fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-friendly: Everyone loves meatloaf! This recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Easy preparation: With just a handful of simple steps, you can have this dish ready to bake in no time.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of spices, veggies, and that delectable bourbon glaze takes the flavor up a notch!
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare it ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
• Budget-friendly: It’s an inexpensive meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for this Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf Recipe is part of the fun! These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Meatloaf

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 cup plain bread crumbs
• ½ cup milk
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup onions (diced)
• 1 cup bell pepper (diced)
• 1 jalapeño (diced)
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp all purpose seasoning (Tony’s brand)
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ tsp salt and pepper

For the Topping

• 1 cup cheddar and Monterey jack cheese
• 1 cup apricot jam
• ¼ cup dark brown sugar
• 1 tbsp sriracha
• ½ cup bourbon
• ½ cup BBQ sauce
• ¼ cup water

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily swap out some ingredients or add your own twist. Here are a few ideas:

• Swap the protein: If ground beef isn’t your favorite, try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add extra veggies: Sneak in some shredded carrots or zucchini for added nutrition and moisture.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique flavor.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add more jalapeños or even some diced green chiles to kick things up!

How to Make Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

Start with your ground beef. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with the bread crumbs, eggs, diced bell pepper, diced jalapeño, diced onions, onion powder, garlic powder, all purpose seasoning, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly ensures every bite is packed with flavor!

Step 2: Shape the Loaf

Once your mixture is well combined, shape it into a loaf form on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps keep clean-up easy while allowing the heat to circulate around your meatloaf for even cooking.

Step 3: Prepare the Glaze

In another bowl, mix together the apricot jam, dark brown sugar, sriracha, bourbon (or substitute), BBQ sauce, and water until everything is well blended. This glaze will create a deliciously sticky topping that caramelizes beautifully as it cooks.

Step 4: Bake

Spread half of your glaze over the top of the shaped meatloaf before placing it in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 75 minutes or until it’s cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C). Don’t forget to brush on more glaze halfway through cooking for an extra burst of flavor!

Step 5: Serve

Once done baking, let your meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows all those tasty juices to redistribute throughout the loaf so every slice stays moist and flavorful!

Enjoy serving this delightful Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf at your next family dinner!

Pro Tips for Making Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf Recipe

Making meatloaf is a breeze, and with these tips, you’ll take your Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf to the next level!

• Use lean ground beef: Opting for lean ground beef (around 80/20) will help reduce excess grease while still keeping the meatloaf juicy and flavorful.

• Let it rest before slicing: After baking, allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making each slice tender and moist.

• Customize the glaze: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or spiciness of the bourbon glaze by adding more or less apricot jam or sriracha according to your taste preferences.

• Mix in veggies: Adding finely chopped vegetables like carrots or zucchini can enhance flavor and moisture, plus sneak in some extra nutrients for a healthier dish.

• Experiment with cheese: Try different types of cheese such as pepper jack for a kick or gouda for a smoky flavor. The cheese melts beautifully into the meatloaf and adds richness.

How to Serve Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf Recipe

Presenting your Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delicious dish that will surely impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of parsley adds a vibrant color contrast and a refreshing flavor that brightens up every bite.
• Sliced green onions: These add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color that makes your dish visually appealing.

Side Dishes

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food that pairs perfectly with meatloaf, soaking up all that delicious glaze.
• Steamed broccoli: Lightly seasoned steamed broccoli provides a crisp texture and a nutritious complement to the rich flavors of the meatloaf.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes balances out the savory notes in the meatloaf, creating harmony on your plate.
• Coleslaw: A cool, crunchy coleslaw can add texture and brightness, offering a refreshing contrast to the hearty meatloaf.

Now you’re ready to enjoy an unforgettable meal with this Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, enjoy it fresh, and then store the leftovers for quick meals later in the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow your meatloaf to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, slice the meatloaf into portions for easy reheating later.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label the bag with the date and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw your frozen meatloaf slices overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
• Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warm.

FAQs

If you have any questions about this delicious recipe, you’re not alone!

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef for this Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf Recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative that keeps the dish lean while still delicious. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I achieve a firmer texture in my Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf Recipe?

For a firmer texture, consider adding an additional egg and ensuring your bread crumbs are well incorporated into the meat mixture. This helps bind everything together better.

What should I serve with my Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf?

This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf Recipe as much as I do! It’s a wonderful blend of flavors that will surely become a favorite at your dinner table. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe out; it’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. Happy cooking!