Smoky Bourbon Meatloaf

There’s something magical about a meatloaf that wafts through the air, filling your home with an irresistible aroma. Picture this: you walk into the kitchen, and the savory scent of smoky bourbon meatloaf hits you like a warm hug, promising comfort and nostalgia from the very first whiff. savory side dish The blend of rich meat, smoky undertones, and that hint of bourbon creates a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds.

Now, let me take you back to my last family gathering when I decided to whip up this masterpiece. As soon as I pulled it out of the oven, my cousin’s eyes lit up like he had just seen a winning lottery ticket. It was love at first slice! This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or even a casual get-together with friends. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll be counting down the days until your next meatloaf fix!

I’ll never forget the time I made this recipe for my friends; they were blown away by how good it tasted!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a juicy texture without all the grease; 80/20 works best.
• Smoked Paprika: This spice adds that signature smoky flavor; opt for high-quality smoked paprika for better results.
• Bourbon: Use your favorite brand to give the meatloaf depth and complexity; don’t skimp here!
• Breadcrumbs: They bind everything together; I prefer using panko for extra crunch.
• Eggs: Essential for binding ingredients together; fresh eggs work wonders in this recipe.
• Onion and Garlic: Sauté these aromatics to create a savory base that enhances all flavors beautifully.
• Ketchup and Worcestershire Sauce: These two add sweetness and umami; don’t leave them out, they’re critical! crispy sweet potato wedges.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepping your smoky bourbon meatloaf is almost as fun as eating it! Let’s break down the process step by step so you can wow everyone at dinner.

Prepare Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grab a loaf pan and lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil.

Sauté the Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onion and garlic until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes should do. You want them golden but not burnt!

Mix Your Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, sautéed onion and garlic, smoked paprika, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and bourbon. Use your hands to mix well, just don’t go wrestling with it too much!

Shape Your Loaf: Transfer the mixture to your greased loaf pan. Shape it into a nice loaf, don’t worry if it’s not perfect; we’re not auditioning for MasterChef here!

Bake It Up!: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s firm and has an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).

Let It Rest Before Slicing!: Once baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing into this beauty. This step helps retain all those juicy flavors inside, trust me! For more inspiration, check out this Baked Pesto Spinach Turkey Meatballs recipe.

Now that you’ve tackled each step with confidence and style, you’re ready to serve up slices of smoky heaven straight from your kitchen!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best results, prepare your ingredients first, then mix everything and form the loaf before baking it. This ensures even cooking and a great blend of flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add ingredients like diced jalapeños for an extra kick! Experimenting makes your meatloaf unique and exciting.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently in the oven to preserve moisture and flavor.

The first time I made this smoky bourbon meatloaf, my friends devoured it! They insisted I share the recipe, which sparked many more delicious gatherings. vegetable-packed lasagna.

FAQ

Can I use different types of meat for the smoky bourbon meatloaf?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. protein-rich breakfast option.

How long should I bake my smoky bourbon meatloaf?

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour or until cooked through.

What can I serve with smoky bourbon meatloaf?

For more inspiration, check out this Grilled Corn with Herb Butter recipe.

It pairs well with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh garden salad.

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Smoky Bourbon Meatloaf

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Indulge in the rich, smoky flavors of this delectable smoky bourbon meatloaf that evokes nostalgia and comfort. With its tender texture and aromatic blend of spices, this dish is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. Easy to prepare and delightful to savor, each bite promises a flavor explosion that will leave your guests asking for seconds.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb lean ground beef (80/20)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp bourbon
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant (about 5 minutes).
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, bourbon, smoked paprika, sautéed onion and garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Mix gently with your hands until just combined; avoid overmixing.
5. Transfer the mixture into the greased loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
7. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 70 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 90mg