Mini Meatloaf Muffins

Let me tell you, these Mini Meatloaf Muffins have saved my weeknight dinners more times than I can count. These are quick and they taste nice, perfectly portioned for kids and adults alike. What I like is they cook fast compared with a full meatloaf and can be served without any knife; just scoop them and enjoy. This is what you’re looking for if comfort food, protein, and freezer-friendly are your requirements!

What Are Mini Meatloaf Muffins All About?

Mini Meatloaf Muffins are little meatloaves baked in muffin tins, with one muffin per person. Think of all the classic meatloaf tastes, now in a fun shape appealing to kids, cooking in half the time. Savory, juicy, and glazed with ketchup, these muffins are easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the meat mixture:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the glaze:

• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp mustard (optional)

How to Make Mini Meatloaf Muffins

1. Now for the cooking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, egg, Worcestershire Sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Fill muffin cups evenly with the mixture, pressing down gently.
4. Let’s make the glaze: Mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the inside is fully cooked (internal temp should be 160F).
6. Allow to cool onto the countertop for a bit before removing from the pan. This way, it is much easier to take them out with a spoon.

Storage Tips

• The fridge: Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to consume within 4 days.
• The freezer: Store the muffins for up to 2 months after cooking. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
• Good accompaniments would be a salad or mac and cheese.
• Make mini meatloaf sliders with dinner rolls!

Pro Tips & Variations

• Replace ground turkey with chicken for a lighter version.
• Vegetables, such as chopped carrots or bell peppers, could be mixed in.
• Substitute crushed crackers or oats for breadcrumbs in the same way.
• Place shredded cheese in the meat for a gooey little surprise.

FAQs

Can I spice up some Mini Meatloaf Muffins?

Of course! You can add some hot pepper flakes or toss in a bit of hot sauce in the mix.

Which substitute works well for gluten-free breadcrumbs?

You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or work with crushed rice crackers.

Can I make this in advance? 

Yes! Prepare the mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before being baked.

Is this dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, use any plant-based milk and skip the cheese if you choose to use it.

Try These Mini Meatloaf Muffins Tonight!

If you’ve got ground meat and a muffin tin, you’re halfway there. These Mini Meatloaf Muffins are cozy, quick, and endlessly customizable. Give them a try, and I promise—they’ll become a regular in your dinner rotation!