Mini Meatloaf Muffins
A fun, family-friendly twist on classic meatloaf! These individual portions cook faster, have more crispy edges, and are perfect for portion control or picky eaters.
Ingredients
For the meatloaf:
· 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
· 1 large egg
· ¾ cup breadcrumbs or quick oats
· ½ cup milk
· 1 small onion, finely diced or grated
· 2 cloves garlic, minced
· 2 tbsp ketchup or barbecue sauce
· 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
· 1 tsp salt
· ½ tsp black pepper
· ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
For the topping (optional but recommended):
· ½ cup ketchup
· 2 tbsp brown sugar
· 1 tsp mustard
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin well with cooking spray or oil.
- Mix: In a large bowl, combine the milk and breadcrumbs/oats. Let sit for 5 minutes to soften. Add egg, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire, salt, pepper, and herbs. Mix well.
- Add meat: Add ground beef. Use your hands or a fork to gently combine—avoid overmixing, which can make the meatloaf tough.
- Fill: Divide mixture evenly among the muffin cups, pressing lightly. They should be nearly full.
- Make glaze (optional): Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spoon a little over each meatloaf muffin.
- Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and tops are lightly browned.
- Rest: Let cool in pan for 5 minutes before removing. Use a spoon or knife to gently lift them out.
Tips & Variations
· Add veggies: Finely grated carrot, zucchini, or diced bell pepper can be mixed in.
· Cheesy surprise: Press a small cube of cheddar or mozzarella into the center of each muffin before baking.
· Turkey version: Use ground turkey or chicken; add an extra tbsp of ketchup or olive oil for moisture.
· Make ahead: Assemble raw in the muffin tin, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake as directed, adding 2–3 extra minutes if cold.
· Freezer-friendly: Bake, cool completely, freeze on a tray, then store in a bag. Reheat in oven or microwave.
Serving Suggestions
· Serve with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans.
· Great for meal prep—pack with roasted veggies and a starch.
· Kids love them dipped in extra ketchup or barbecue sauce.
These mini meatloaf muffins are a guaranteed hit—moist, flavorful, and ready in half the time of a traditional loaf!