Print

Mini Meatloaves in a Muffin Tin

Mini Meatloaves in a Muffin Tin
Print Recipe

Mini Meatloaves in a Muffin Tin are a quick, tasty, and convenient meal option that transforms classic meatloaf into perfectly portioned, crowd-pleasing mini loaves. Ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, these mini meatloaves bake faster than traditional ones and offer endless customization options to suit any taste or dietary need.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
  • 1–2 eggs
  • 1 small onion, finely minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1/4 cup ketchup or tomato sauce (plus extra for glaze)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or mixed herbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins and Variations

  • Finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for vegetable boost
  • Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese for a melty center
  • Finely diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick
  • Gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts for gluten-free option

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Finely chop onions and garlic, and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your muffin tin or use silicone liners to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
  2. Mix the Meatloaf Base: In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly until evenly combined. Avoid overmixing to keep meatloaves tender.
  3. Portion the Mixture: Divide the meat mixture evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Press down lightly to shape into little loaf forms, ensuring uniform cooking and perfect mini loaves.
  4. Add the Glaze: Spread a thin layer of ketchup or your favorite barbecue sauce on top of each mini meatloaf. This glaze caramelizes as it bakes, offering a delicious sweet tang and a beautiful browned finish.
  5. Bake and Cool: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let the mini meatloaves rest for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the tin.

Notes

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure mini meatloaves are perfectly cooked without becoming dry.
  • Don’t pack the mixture too tightly; gentle mixing and filling keeps meatloaves tender and juicy.
  • Customize your glaze with barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or sriracha for varied flavor profiles.
  • Line your muffin tin with silicone liners or spray non-stick cooking spray for easy removal.
  • Let mini meatloaves cool slightly to firm up for neat removal and better slicing.

Nutrition

Keywords: mini meatloaf, muffin tin meatloaf, quick meatloaf, easy dinner, meal prep, gluten free meatloaf, kid-friendly, comfort food

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/mini-meatloaves-in-a-muffin-tin/