These Muffin Tin Meatloafs are a fun twist on a classic dish! They’re small, easy to make, and full of flavor. Just mix meat, veggies, and spices, then bake them in a muffin tin.
I love how each little loaf is like a tasty mini dinner! Plus, they cook quickly, so it’s perfect for busy nights. And who doesn’t want a personal-sized meatloaf? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef is the main ingredient, giving the meatloaf its great flavor. You can mix it with ground pork for added richness. If you prefer a healthier option, try ground turkey or chicken instead.
Onions and Bell Peppers: Finely chopped onions add sweetness when cooked, while bell peppers add color and flavor. If you’re not a fan of bell peppers, you can skip them or use diced zucchini instead!
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help hold the meatloaf together. You can use regular or Italian-seasoned ones. If someone is gluten-free, crushed gluten-free crackers work just fine.
Ketchup: Ketchup gives moisture and sweetness. You can use BBQ sauce or even a spicy Sriracha for some heat if you like a kick!
What’s the Best Way to Avoid Dense Meatloaf?
Achieving the perfect texture in meatloaf can be tricky. Overmixing is the common culprit! To ensure a light and flavorful loaf, it’s key to mix just until combined. Here are some tips to help:
- Soak the breadcrumbs in milk for at least 5 minutes to soften them before mixing.
- Use your hands or a spoon gently when combining ingredients to avoid overworking the meat.
- Press the mixture into the muffin tin firmly, but don’t squish it too much—it should hold its shape without being dense.
By following these steps, you’ll have tender, juicy muffin tin meatloafs every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Muffin Tin Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs or parsley
- 1/2 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to cook. You’ll spend about 5 minutes soaking breadcrumbs, mixing ingredients, and shaping the mini meatloafs. After that, a quick bake in the oven does the work! All in all, you can have a delicious meal ready in about 40 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheating the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or oil. This will help your meatloafs pop out easily later on!
2. Soaking the Breadcrumbs:
In a large bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in the milk for about 5 minutes. This step softens the breadcrumbs, making sure they blend well into the meatloaf mixture.
3. Mixing the Meatloaf Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to mix! Add the ground beef, chopped onion, optional bell pepper, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and dried Italian herbs to the soaked breadcrumbs. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s just combined. Remember, don’t overmix; we want it light and tasty!
4. Filling the Muffin Tin:
Divide the meat mixture evenly among the muffin tin cups. Press the meat down gently but firmly to form small loaves. You want them to hold their shape but remain airy!
5. Topping with Ketchup:
Spread a generous spoonful of ketchup on top of each mini meatloaf. This adds flavor and keeps them moist while baking.
6. Baking:
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Your mini meatloafs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and are nicely browned on top.
7. Cooling and Serving:
When they’re finished baking, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, carefully remove each muffin loaf from the tin. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color.
8. Enjoying Your Meal:
Serve the Muffin Tin Meatloafs warm with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables. Enjoy your delicious, individual servings of comfort food!
These mini meatloafs are sure to be a hit with the family! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef. Just keep in mind that turkey can be a bit drier, so adding a little extra milk or even some chopped veggies can help retain moisture.
How Do I Store Leftover Muffin Tin Meatloafs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make These Meatloafs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Just fill the muffin tin and bake them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy!
What’s a Good Side to Serve With These Meatloafs?
These mini meatloafs pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or even a simple salad. They make for a balanced and satisfying meal!