Description
BBQ Bourbon Glazed Meatloaf with Caramelized Onions is a twist on a classic comfort food. The meatloaf itself is a hearty mixture of ground beef, ground pork, and a variety of seasonings like smoked paprika and cayenne pepper. The key to this recipe lies in the bourbon-infused BBQ glaze, which adds a smoky, sweet, and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the savory meatloaf.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
1 ½ lbs (680 g) ground beef (80/20 preferred)
½ lb (225 g) ground pork (optional but adds flavor)
1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
¾ cup milk
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 eggs, lightly beaten
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Bourbon BBQ Glaze:
¾ cup BBQ sauce
¼ cup bourbon
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp smoked paprika
Pinch of chili flakes (optional)
For the Caramelized Onions:
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt
1 tsp brown sugar (optional)
2 tbsp bourbon or water (for deglazing)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Onions
Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat.
Add onions and salt; cook slowly for 25–30 minutes, stirring often.
When onions turn golden brown, deglaze with bourbon (or water) and stir until the liquid evaporates.
Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Meatloaf
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, mix breadcrumbs and milk; let soak for 5 minutes.
Add ground beef, ground pork, onions, garlic, eggs, Worcestershire, mustard, BBQ sauce, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
Mix just until combined (don’t overwork).
Shape into a loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
Step 3: Make the Glaze
In a saucepan, combine BBQ sauce, bourbon, brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, paprika, and chili flakes.
Simmer over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Bake and Glaze
Brush meatloaf with half the bourbon glaze.
Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes (until internal temp reaches 160°F / 71°C).
Halfway through, brush with more glaze.
Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Step 5: Serve
Spoon caramelized onions over the top.
Drizzle with extra glaze if desired.
Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or buttered corn.
Notes
For an extra layer of flavor, brush on a little more bourbon glaze during the last 10 minutes of baking. Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a hearty, comforting meal.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hr 10 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx.)
- Calories: 420
Keywords: BBQ Meatloaf, Bourbon Glazed Meatloaf, Caramelized Onion Meatloaf, Smoky Bourbon Meatloaf