If you’re craving a comfort food classic with an exciting twist, this Bourbon Glazed Meatloaf is your new go-to dish. Juicy, tender, and packed with rich flavors, it combines the hearty satisfaction of a traditional meatloaf with a sweet and smoky bourbon glaze that elevates every bite. The glaze adds a glossy finish and a depth of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds, making it perfect for cozy dinners or casual gatherings alike.

Bourbon Glazed Meatloaf Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients may seem straightforward, but each plays a key role in building the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color for this Bourbon Glazed Meatloaf. From the savory blend of meats to the bold notes of bourbon in the glaze, every component shines through in the final masterpiece.

Ground beef (1.5 lbs): Provides rich, juicy flavor and a tender texture that’s essential for a great meatloaf.
Ground pork (½ lb): Adds moisture and a slight sweetness to balance the beef’s heartiness.
Breadcrumbs (1 cup): Helps bind the meat together while keeping it light and tender.
Onion (1 small, finely diced): Injects a subtle sweetness and aromatic freshness into the mixture.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses a savory kick that deepens the flavor profile.
Eggs (2 large): Act as a natural binder to hold the meatloaf together perfectly.
Milk (½ cup): Adds moisture to keep the meatloaf soft and luscious.
Worcestershire sauce (2 tablespoons): Brings umami and a touch of tang that rounds out the meat mixture.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Offers just the right hint of heat and complexity.
Ketchup (½ cup): Forms the sweet base of the bourbon glaze with tomato richness.
Bourbon (2 tablespoons): Adds warmth, depth, and that signature smoky edge to the glaze.
Brown sugar (2 tablespoons): Balances the bourbon’s bite with a caramel sweetness.
Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Provides a subtle tang that cuts through the sweetness in the glaze.

How to Make Bourbon Glazed Meatloaf

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan to ensure your meatloaf doesn’t stick during cooking. This simple step guarantees your masterpiece will come out cleanly, looking as good as it tastes.

Step 2: Create the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, finely diced onion, minced garlic, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mixing just until blended keeps the meatloaf tender and not overly dense – the key to a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 3: Shape and Place the Meatloaf

Form your meat mixture into a classic loaf shape, ensuring the edges are smooth for even cooking. Transfer it carefully into the prepared loaf pan so it holds its shape perfectly throughout baking.

Step 4: Mix and Apply the Bourbon Glaze

Whisk together ketchup, bourbon, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl. This glaze is where the magic happens! Spread half of it evenly over the top of your meatloaf, creating a glossy, sticky layer that will caramelize beautifully in the oven.

Step 5: Bake and Glaze Again

Bake your meatloaf for 50 to 60 minutes, and when you reach the halfway point, brush the remaining bourbon glaze over the top. This double layer of glaze builds a depth of flavor and a shiny finish everyone will admire. The meatloaf is perfectly cooked when the internal temperature hits 160°F (71°C).

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes after baking to let the juices redistribute. This step ensures every slice stays juicy and tender. Serve it with extra glaze on the side if you love that bold bourbon flavor as much as I do!

How to Serve Bourbon Glazed Meatloaf

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a vibrant pop of color and a hint of freshness that beautifully complements the rich flavors of the Bourbon Glazed Meatloaf. For an extra touch, a dollop of creamy horseradish sauce or tangy mustard on the side kicks the dish up a notch.

Side Dishes

This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with classic mashed potatoes soaked in butter and cream, roasted root vegetables for earthy warmth, or a crisp green salad to lighten the plate. Even simple steamed green beans or corn on the cob work beautifully to create a balanced, comforting meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the Bourbon Glazed Meatloaf and serving it open-faced on toasted rustic bread with a smear of glaze and arugula for a fancy meatloaf sandwich. You can also cut it into mini loaf portions for appetizers at your next party or family gathering, making it just as easy to impress a crowd as a cozy family dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Bourbon Glazed Meatloaf keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cool it completely before storing to maintain moisture and flavor.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, slice the meatloaf and wrap individual portions tightly with plastic wrap and foil, or freeze the whole loaf before glazing. Frozen properly, it will keep well for up to 3 months, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal option.

Reheating

For reheating, gently warm slices in the oven at 300°F (150°C) covered with foil to keep them moist. You can also microwave slices on medium power with a damp paper towel over the top to prevent drying out—no matter what, try adding a bit of extra glaze to revive that marvelous bourbon flavor.

FAQs

Can I use only ground beef for the Bourbon Glazed Meatloaf?

Absolutely! While the combination of beef and pork adds extra moisture and flavor, using all ground beef will still yield a delicious meatloaf. Just be sure to monitor the juiciness and consider adding a bit more milk or an egg if the mixture feels dry.

Is it necessary to use bourbon in the glaze?

Bourbon is essential to the signature flavor of this glaze, imparting warmth and smokiness. However, if you prefer, you can substitute with apple juice or a splash of whiskey for a different but still delicious twist.

How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer and ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). This guarantees the meatloaf is safe to eat while remaining moist and tender.

Can I make the Bourbon Glazed Meatloaf gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this a versatile dish for various dietary needs.

Why is it important to let the meatloaf rest before slicing?

Resting allows the juices inside the meatloaf to redistribute evenly. Cutting into it immediately after baking can cause those flavorful juices to run out, leaving the meatloaf dry.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say, this Bourbon Glazed Meatloaf is a game-changer for your dinner table. The perfect blend of savory meat and sweet, smoky bourbon glaze is a comforting hug on a plate. Give it a try—you might just find yourself craving it more often than you expected!