Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting and hearty meal that brings everyone together, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect dish! This Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf Recipe is not only delicious but also a wonderful way to make your kitchen feel like home. It’s a family favorite in my house and always sparks joy during busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. The unique bourbon glaze adds a delightful twist that elevates the classic meatloaf into something truly special.

Whether you’re serving it with mashed potatoes or on its own, this meatloaf is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Let’s dive in and create a meal that will make your loved ones come back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the rich flavors and comforting texture.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Prepare it ahead of time, pop it in the oven, and enjoy more time with your family.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices and the bourbon glaze create an irresistible taste that will have everyone asking for your secret.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf is simple, thanks to these wholesome ingredients. They come together beautifully to create a flavorful dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out!

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
• 1 cup cheddar and Monterey jack cheese

For the Glaze

• 1 cup apricot jam
• ¼ cup dark brown sugar
• 1 tbsp sriracha
• ½ cup bourbon
• ½ cup BBQ sauce
• ¼ cup water

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative and tailor it to your taste or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Sneak in some finely chopped spinach or carrots for extra nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Try using pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick or omit it entirely for a dairy-free version.
• Make mini loaves: Form individual mini loaves instead of one large loaf for quicker cooking and easy serving.

How to Make Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

Start with your ground beef. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with the bread crumbs, eggs, bell pepper, jalapeño, onions, onion powder, garlic powder, all-purpose seasoning, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mixing these ingredients well ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. It’s important not to overmix; just combine until everything is nicely incorporated.

Step 2: Shape the Loaf

Once your mixture is ready, shape it into a loaf form on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This step allows for even cooking while keeping your meatloaf juicy inside. Plus, it makes cleanup super easy!

Step 3: Prepare the Glaze

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine apricot jam, dark brown sugar, sriracha, bourbon (or substitute), BBQ sauce, and water. Stir until everything melts together into a luscious glaze. This glaze will give your meatloaf that beautiful caramelized finish as it bakes.

Step 4: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once preheated, pour about half of the glaze over your shaped meatloaf before placing it in the oven. Bake for approximately 75 minutes or until cooked through. Using an instant-read thermometer is helpful; aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).

Step 5: Serve

After baking, let your meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps redistribute juices throughout the loaf so every slice is moist and flavorful! Drizzle some remaining glaze over each slice just before serving for that extra burst of flavor.

Enjoy this Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf Recipe with your loved ones—it’s sure to become a staple at your dinner table!

Pro Tips for Making Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf Recipe

Making the perfect meatloaf can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll impress your family and friends every time!

• Choose Lean Ground Beef: Opting for 80/20 ground beef will provide the right balance of flavor without excess grease, resulting in a more enjoyable texture.

• Let it Rest: After baking, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice moist and flavorful.

• Customize Your Glaze: Feel free to mix up the glaze by using different jams or sauces that you love. This gives you creative freedom to tailor the flavors to your preferences.

• Use a Loaf Pan: Baking in a loaf pan helps maintain shape and ensures even cooking. If you prefer a crispy crust, you can bake it on a lined baking sheet instead.

• Check Internal Temperature: Using a meat thermometer will ensure your meatloaf is cooked perfectly. Aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption.

How to Serve Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf Recipe

Serving your Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf can elevate a simple meal into something truly special. Here are some fun ideas!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing both the presentation and flavor.
• Sriracha Drizzle: A light drizzle of sriracha over the top provides an extra kick that complements the sweetness of the glaze beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic make for a comforting pairing that soaks up all those delicious juices from the meatloaf.

• Steamed Green Beans: Freshly steamed green beans add a vibrant crunch and are an easy way to include some greens on your plate.

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with the savory meatloaf, creating a delightful contrast.

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad offers refreshing crunch and tangy dressing that balances out the richness of the meatloaf perfectly.

By following these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create an inviting dining experience that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking adventure with this Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf Recipe!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf is perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up in advance and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the meatloaf to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Slice the meatloaf into individual portions for easier thawing.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label and date the bag, then freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen meatloaf slices in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place slices on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, depending on your microwave’s power.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf without bourbon?

Absolutely! You can substitute the bourbon with additional BBQ sauce or a mix of apple juice and vinegar for a similar flavor profile without using alcohol.

How long does Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf last in the fridge?

Your Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator if stored properly. Just be sure to keep it tightly wrapped!

What sides go well with Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf?

This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. Feel free to get creative with your sides!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf is fantastic for meal prep. You can prepare it ahead of time and store leftovers easily.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Bourbon Glaze Meatloaf as much as I do! It’s not just a comforting dish; it’s a family favorite that brings everyone together around the dinner table. The blend of flavors makes it special, and I’m sure your loved ones will appreciate it just as much. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience with me!