Discover the deliciousness of Mini Meatloaf Muffins. These easy-to-make, perfectly portioned meatloaves are great for dinner, meal prep, or a fun family meal.
Introduction
Mini Meatloaf Muffins are a delicious and convenient twist on the classic meatloaf. Perfectly portioned and packed with flavor, these mini meatloaves are great for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or family gatherings. By baking them in a muffin tin, they cook faster and are easier to serve. Each muffin is a bite-sized bundle of savory goodness, making them appealing to both kids and adults. With a crispy exterior and a tender, juicy interior, these Mini Meatloaf Muffins are sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe for this tasty and easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon mustard
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with muffin liners.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, onion, bell pepper, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined but do not overmix.
- Divide the meat mixture evenly among the muffin cups, pressing it down slightly to fill each cup.
- In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard for the glaze.
- Spoon the glaze over the top of each mini meatloaf, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the meatloaves are cooked through.
- Let the mini meatloaves cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before removing and serving.
How to Prepare
Combine the meatloaf ingredients in a large bowl, then divide the mixture into a greased muffin tin. Top with a sweet and tangy glaze made from ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Bake until cooked through, then let cool slightly before serving.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Servings
This recipe makes 12 mini meatloaf muffins, serving approximately 4-6 people.
FAQs
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will produce a lighter, leaner meatloaf.
2. Can I freeze mini meatloaf muffins?
Absolutely! After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
3. What sides go well with mini meatloaf muffins?
Serve with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
4. Can I add other vegetables to the meatloaf mixture?
Yes, finely chopped carrots, celery, or mushrooms can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover mini meatloaf muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Conclusion
Mini Meatloaf Muffins are a tasty and convenient twist on a classic comfort food. These perfectly portioned meatloaves are easy to make, cook quickly, and are great for meal prep or family dinners. With a delicious glaze and a flavorful, juicy interior, these mini meatloaves are sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy them with your favorite sides for a satisfying and hearty meal. Happy cooking!