Maple Bourbon Glazed Meatloaf

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 1 hour
🍽 Serves: 6
★★★★★
Be the First to Review!

If you're looking for a twist on the classic comfort food, this Maple Bourbon Glazed Meatloaf is it. The sweet, smoky glaze takes your taste buds on a little adventure while still staying true to the hearty, satisfying nature of meatloaf. Perfect for a cozy evening or when you want to impress with minimal effort.

Ingredients for Maple Bourbon Glazed Meatloaf

The star of this dish is the mix of ground beef and ground pork, which creates a juicy, flavorful base for the meatloaf. Breadcrumbs and whole milk are added to keep the meatloaf moist and tender. Onion and garlic bring a depth of flavor and aromatic base, making each bite more complex. The eggs act as a binder, holding everything together. For the glaze, maple syrup introduces sweetness while bourbon adds a smoky, rich undertone. Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard give a tangy, umami boost. Lastly, a blend of salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper seasons the meat perfectly, with just enough heat to balance the sweetness.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a more pronounced bourbon flavor, allow the glaze to sit for 10 minutes before brushing it on the meatloaf.
  • Mix the meat gently to avoid a dense texture. Less handling results in a more tender loaf.
  • If you don’t have parchment paper, a light coating of non-stick spray on the baking sheet will work as well.

Serving Suggestions

This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. For a fresh contrast, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich flavors beautifully. If you're feeling adventurous, try serving it with sweet potato fries for a delightful twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this meatloaf without bourbon?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute the bourbon with apple cider or leave it out entirely for a non-alcoholic version.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this meatloaf freezes well. Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
What can I use instead of pork?
If you're not a fan of pork, you can use all beef or substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.

Maple Bourbon Glazed Meatloaf Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Grab a large bowl and mix the ground beef and ground pork together until they're just combined. You don't want to overwork the meat or it could turn tough.

Next, add the breadcrumbs, milk, onions, garlic, and eggs to the meat mixture. Use your hands to mix everything together gently. Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Shape this mixture into a loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet.

Now, let's prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, bourbon, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and Dijon mustard. Brush half of this glaze over the meatloaf, ensuring it's evenly covered.

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and let it bake for 45 minutes. After this first bake, remove it and brush the remaining glaze over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Once done, allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This rest period lets the juices redistribute, making every slice juicy and flavorful.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • The combination of maple and bourbon gives a unique, rich flavor that's irresistible.
  • Easy-to-find ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
  • Perfect balance of savory and sweet, with a hint of spice to keep things interesting.
  • Simple preparation with a big payoff in taste and presentation.

Ingredients

1 1/2 lbs ground beef
1/2 lb ground pork
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup whole milk
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 large eggs
1/3 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup bourbon
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp Dijon mustard

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix the ground beef and ground pork until combined.
3. Add breadcrumbs, milk, onions, garlic, and eggs to the meat mixture and mix well.
4. Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
5. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, bourbon, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and Dijon mustard to form the glaze.
7. Brush half of the glaze over the meatloaf.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
9. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush the remaining glaze over it.
10. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
11. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!