If you’re a fan of classic meatloaf but prefer individual portions, then these Mini Meatloaf Muffins are about to become your new favorite recipe! Packed with savory flavors and baked to perfection in a convenient muffin tin, these bite-sized meatloaves are perfect for meal prep, snacks, or family dinners. They’re easy to make, customizable, and sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the delicious details of this delightful dish!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative to ground beef and can be used interchangeably in this recipe. Just keep in mind that ground turkey tends to be leaner, so you may need to adjust the seasoning and add a little extra fat to keep the meatloaf moist.
Q: Can I freeze these Mini Meatloaf Muffins? A: Yes, these meatloaf muffins freeze very well! Once baked and cooled, you can wrap them individually in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Q: Can I make these Mini Meatloaf Muffins keto-friendly? A: Absolutely! To make a keto-friendly version of these meatloaf muffins, you can substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour. You can also use a sugar-free ketchup alternative and skip the milk or use a low-carb milk substitute like almond milk.
Q: Can I add vegetables to these Mini Meatloaf Muffins? A: Yes, feel free to add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the meatloaf mixture for added flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to sauté the vegetables until they’re tender before adding them to the mixture.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 beaten egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup ketchup, plus extra for topping
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 finely chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or line with paper liners for easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, ketchup, milk, chopped onion, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until everything is well combined.
3. Shape the Mini Meatloaf Muffins:
- Divide the meatloaf mixture evenly among the prepared muffin cups, pressing it down gently to form mini meatloaf muffins.
4. Add Topping and Bake:
- Brush the tops of each mini meatloaf muffin with additional ketchup for extra flavor and moisture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatloaf muffins are cooked through and the tops are golden brown.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the meatloaf muffins cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or additional ketchup, if desired, and serve hot.
Cook’s Notes:
- For extra flavor, you can add grated cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, to the meatloaf mixture.
- Make sure not to overmix the meatloaf mixture, as this can result in dense and tough meatloaf muffins. Mix until just combined for tender and juicy results.
- If you’re short on time, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
Variations:
- Add a tablespoon of barbecue sauce or your favorite hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture for a spicy kick.
- Experiment with different seasonings and herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika, to customize the flavor of your meatloaf muffins.
- For a cheesy twist, place a cube of cheese in the center of each meatloaf muffin before baking for a gooey surprise inside.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
- To make a keto-friendly version of these Mini Meatloaf Muffins, substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour, and use a sugar-free ketchup alternative. Skip the milk or use a low-carb milk substitute like almond milk.
- Serve the meatloaf muffins with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar for a satisfying and low-carb meal.
These Mini Meatloaf Muffins are a fantastic way to enjoy all the flavors of classic meatloaf in convenient individual portions. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week ahead or looking for a quick and easy dinner option, these bite-sized meatloaves are sure to satisfy. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, you can whip up a batch of these delicious meatloaf muffins in no time. Give them a try and prepare to be delighted by their savory goodness!
