Mini Meatloaf Muffins Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious, easy-to-make dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even family gatherings, these Mini Meatloaf Muffins are exactly what you need! Not only do they pack all the savory goodness of traditional meatloaf into convenient, single-serve portions, but they also cook faster than a full-sized meatloaf. The glaze adds a touch of sweetness and tang, creating a flavor-packed meal that both kids and adults will love.

Who is This Recipe For?

This recipe is perfect for:

• Busy families who need a quick yet comforting meal.
• Meal preppers looking for an easy-to-store, make-ahead dish.
• Picky eaters who enjoy familiar flavors in a fun shape.
• Anyone craving classic comfort food without the long cook time of a traditional meatloaf.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Meatloaf Mixture:

• 1 ½ pounds Ground Beef
• ½ cup Onion, chopped
• ½ cup Green Bell Pepper, chopped
• 2 tbsp Parsley, chopped
• 2 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
• 1 tsp Dijon Mustard
• ¼ cup Barbecue Sauce
• ⅔ cup Breadcrumbs
• 1 large Egg
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Glaze:

• ¼ cup Barbecue Sauce
• 1 tbsp Honey
• ¼ cup Ketchup

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Muffin tin (12-cup or larger)
• Cooking spray or muffin liners
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure an even cook.

2. Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine all the meatloaf ingredients. Mix everything together using your hands until well incorporated, but be careful not to overmix, as that can make the meatloaf tough.

3. Fill the Muffin Tin

Grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or line it with muffin liners. Divide the meat mixture evenly among 10 muffin cups, pressing them down slightly.

4. Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, honey, and ketchup. Stir well until smooth.

5. Glaze and Bake

Spoon a bit of the glaze over each mini meatloaf, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

6. Rest and Serve

Let the muffins rest for 5 minutes before removing them from the pan. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your mini meatloaf muffins with:

• Mashed potatoes for a classic comfort food pairing.
• Steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots.
• Mac and cheese for a kid-friendly dinner.
• A fresh garden salad to balance out the richness.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Wrap each meatloaf muffin in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

• Microwave: Heat for 30-45 seconds per muffin.
• Oven: Warm at 325°F (163°C) for 10-12 minutes.
• Air fryer: Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Variations & Substitutions

Make it Healthier

• Swap the ground beef for lean turkey or chicken.
• Use whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
• Reduce the sugar by omitting honey from the glaze.

Vegetarian Version

• Use lentils or plant-based meat alternatives instead of beef.
• Add chopped mushrooms for extra umami flavor.

Spicy Twist

• Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
• Use spicy BBQ sauce for a kick.

FAQs

1. Can I make these mini meatloaf muffins ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I use a different glaze?

Absolutely! Try a honey mustard glaze, a ketchup-brown sugar glaze, or a sriracha BBQ glaze.

3. What type of beef should I use?

For the best balance of flavor and moisture, use 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat). Leaner beef can work but may result in a drier texture.

4. Can I add cheese?

Yes! Mix in ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy meatloaf.

5. How do I prevent my meatloaf muffins from falling apart?

Make sure to use enough breadcrumbs and egg to bind the mixture. Also, avoid overmixing, which can break down the structure of the meat.

Final Thoughts

These Mini Meatloaf Muffins are a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy classic comfort food in a fun, easy-to-serve form. Whether you’re making them for a quick weeknight dinner, a meal prep staple, or even a party appetizer, they’re sure to be a hit!

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