Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin.

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, minced onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Mix by hand until just combined, ensuring ingredients are evenly distributed without overworking the meat.

In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce and bourbon to create the glaze.

Divide the meat mixture into 12 equal portions and shape into rounds.

Line the perimeter of each muffin tin well with a slice of bacon, then press the meat portion into the center.

Brush the tops of each meatloaf cupcake with half of the bourbon BBQ glaze.

Bake for 25 minutes in the center rack of the oven.

Apply the remaining glaze to each cupcake and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the bacon is crisp and internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Let rest for 5 minutes in the tin to allow juices to redistribute before serving.