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:
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1 ½ lbs (680 g) ground beef (80/20 preferred)
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½ lb (225 g) ground pork (optional but adds flavor)
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1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
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¾ cup milk
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1 small onion, finely diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 eggs, lightly beaten
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2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tbsp Dijon mustard
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½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
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Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Bourbon BBQ Glaze:
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¾ cup BBQ sauce
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¼ cup bourbon
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¼ cup brown sugar
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2 tbsp ketchup
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1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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Pinch of chili flakes (optional)
For the Caramelized Onions:
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2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
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2 tbsp butter
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1 tbsp olive oil
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½ tsp salt
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1 tsp brown sugar (optional)
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2 tbsp bourbon or water (for deglazing)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Onions
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Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat.
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Add onions and salt; cook slowly for 25–30 minutes, stirring often.
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When onions turn golden brown, deglaze with bourbon (or water) and stir until the liquid evaporates.
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Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Meatloaf
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large bowl, mix breadcrumbs and milk; let soak for 5 minutes.
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Add ground beef, ground pork, onions, garlic, eggs, Worcestershire, mustard, BBQ sauce, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
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Mix just until combined (don’t overwork).
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Shape into a loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
Step 3: Make the Glaze
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In a saucepan, combine BBQ sauce, bourbon, brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, paprika, and chili flakes.
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Simmer over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Bake and Glaze
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Brush meatloaf with half the bourbon glaze.
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Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes (until internal temp reaches 160°F / 71°C).
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Halfway through, brush with more glaze.
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Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Step 5: Serve
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Spoon caramelized onions over the top.
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Drizzle with extra glaze if desired.
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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