Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin or use foil liners for easier cleanup and removal after baking.

Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:

• Ground beef

• Finely chopped onion

• Minced garlic

• Breadcrumbs

• Whole milk

• Worcestershire sauce

• Bourbon

• Tomato paste

• Egg

• Smoked paprika

• Salt

• Pepper

• Smoky bourbon BBQ sauce

Mix gently using your hands or a wooden spoon until the ingredients are well combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can lead to tough meatloaf.

Step 3: Form and Bake the Cupcakes

Divide the meat mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup to the top and slightly mounding the mixture like a cupcake. Press lightly to pack.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the tops are browned and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). If desired, during the last 5 minutes of baking, brush the tops with an extra layer of smoky bourbon BBQ sauce for added moisture and flavor.

Step 4: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the meatloaf cupcakes bake, prepare the mashed potato frosting:

1. Place the peeled and cubed Yukon gold potatoes in a large pot of salted water.

2. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, approximately 15 minutes.

3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the hot pot to remove excess moisture.

4. Add warm milk and butter. Mash until smooth using a masher or electric mixer.

5. Stir in sour cream or cream cheese if desired, then season with salt and pepper.

For extra-smooth mashed potatoes that are easy to pipe onto the cupcakes, use a ricer or beat with a hand mixer.

Step 5: Assemble the Cupcakes

Remove the meatloaf cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool for 5 minutes in the muffin tin. Carefully remove them and place on a serving tray or plate.

Spoon the mashed potatoes into a piping bag fitted with a large round or star tip. Pipe a generous swirl of mashed potatoes on each meatloaf, mimicking cupcake frosting. If you don’t have a piping bag, a spoon works just as well.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top each frosted meatloaf cupcake with your choice of:

• A drizzle of smoky bourbon BBQ sauce

• Chopped chives

• Crispy bacon bits

• Shredded cheddar cheese

Serve warm with your favorite sides or as a stand-alone entrée for a satisfying, savory dish.