Smoky Bourbon BBQ Meatloaf Cupcakes with Mashed Potato Frosting

Smoky Bourbon BBQ Meatloaf Cupcakes with Mashed Potato Frosting
Mini Meatloaf Cupcakes Packed with Flavor and Topped with Buttery Mashed Potato Swirls – A Savory Twist on Classic Comfort Food!

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf Cupcakes:

• 1½ lbs ground beef (85/15 lean-to-fat ratio)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• ½ cup whole milk
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup bourbon BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade – recipe below)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Pinch of ground cumin (optional)
• Cooking spray or oil for greasing the muffin pan

For the Mashed Potato Frosting:

• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• ½ cup heavy cream or whole milk
• Salt to taste
• White or black pepper to taste
• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional, for flavor)

Optional Homemade Bourbon BBQ Sauce:

• 1 cup ketchup
• ¼ cup bourbon
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp honey or molasses
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Mashed Potato Frosting

1. Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 15–20 minutes).
2. Drain and mash with butter and cream until smooth and fluffy.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix in Parmesan if using.
4. Transfer to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Bourbon BBQ Sauce (if homemade)

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine all ingredients.
2. Simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir occasionally and remove from heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Meatloaf Cupcakes

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine all meatloaf ingredients. Mix just until combined—don’t overmix.
3. Grease a 12-cup muffin tin and divide the mixture evenly among the cups, pressing gently.
4. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove from oven and brush tops with extra BBQ sauce.
5. Return to oven and bake for another 5–7 minutes until glazed and cooked through.

Step 4: Assemble the Cupcakes

1. Let the meatloaf cupcakes cool slightly, then remove from pan.
2. Pipe mashed potatoes onto each like frosting on a cupcake.
3. Optional: sprinkle with paprika, parsley, or crispy fried onions for garnish.
4. Serve warm and enjoy the wow factor!

Serving & Storage Tips

• Great for dinner parties, potlucks, or fun weeknight meals.
• Serve with green beans, coleslaw, or roasted veggies.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze without the mashed potato topping for up to 2 months.

Pro Tips

• Use Yukon Gold potatoes for the creamiest texture.
• Want more flavor? Mix some shredded cheddar into the mashed potatoes.
• A piping bag makes them look like real cupcakes—but a spoon works too!’