These Mini Meatloaf Muffins are a quick, easy, and delicious twist on classic meatloaf! Perfectly portion-sized, they cook faster than traditional meatloaf and have a crispy, caramelized glaze on top. Ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or lunchboxes, these muffins are kid-friendly and freezer-friendly too! 🥩🧁✨
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf Muffins:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- ½ cup (50 g) breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- ¼ cup (60 ml) milk
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup (60 g) ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Glaze:
- ¼ cup (60 g) ketchup
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line with muffin liners.
Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix until just combined—do not overmix to keep the meatloaf tender.
Step 3: Fill the Muffin Tin
- Divide the meat mixture evenly into the muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard.
- Spoon or brush the glaze evenly over each meatloaf muffin.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked (internal temperature of 160°F / 71°C).
- Let cool for 5 minutes, then remove from the muffin tin.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve warm with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad!
Notes
- Make it healthier: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Extra moist meatloaf: Add finely grated zucchini or carrots to the mix.
- Storage: Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Freezing: Freeze baked meatloaf muffins for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Why This Recipe Works
The small size of these muffins helps them cook faster and more evenly, while the sweet and tangy glaze adds extra flavor. The crispy edges and juicy center make them a perfect bite-sized comfort food!
Conclusion
These Mini Meatloaf Muffins are a fun, flavorful, and easy-to-make dinner that’s kid-friendly, meal-prep friendly, and packed with flavor. Try them today for a quick and satisfying meal! 🥩🧁✨
