There’s something undeniably comforting about meatloaf—juicy, hearty, and packed with flavor. But what if you could take all that classic goodness and transform it into a fun, quick-cooking, and perfectly portioned dish? Enter Mini Meatloaf Muffins. These bite-sized versions of the traditional favorite not only cut down on cooking time but also deliver the perfect ratio of tender meat, savory seasoning, and caramelized glaze in every bite. They’re kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and weeknight-dinner-friendly—a true trifecta.
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Why You’ll Love Mini Meatloaf Muffins
Quick cooking: Ready in a fraction of the time compared to a full meatloaf.
Portion control: Perfectly sized servings, no slicing required.
Family-approved: Kids love the muffin shape, adults love the flavor.
Meal prep heaven: Easy to freeze and reheat for future meals.
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Ingredients (and Why They Matter)
1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork) – The foundation of the dish. Beef brings richness, while pork adds extra juiciness.
1 cup breadcrumbs – Helps bind the mixture and keeps the meatloaf from becoming too dense.
1 small onion, finely diced – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses savory notes that balance the richness of the meat.
1 egg – Essential for binding the ingredients together.
½ cup milk – Keeps the meatloaf moist and tender.
2 tbsp ketchup – Adds tangy sweetness inside the mix.
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Enhances the umami flavor and gives a savory punch.
1 tsp salt + ½ tsp black pepper – Brings out all the flavors.
1 tsp Italian seasoning (or dried thyme/oregano) – Provides subtle herbal notes.
Glaze (½ cup ketchup + 2 tbsp brown sugar + 1 tsp mustard) – The finishing touch that caramelizes beautifully on top, balancing savory with sweet.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with silicone liners.
2. Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined—avoid overmixing, as it can make the meat tough.
3. Shape into muffins: Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full. Press lightly to smooth the tops.
4. Add the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spoon a layer of glaze over each meatloaf muffin.
5. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the tops are caramelized.
6. Rest and serve: Let the muffins rest for 5 minutes before removing them from the pan. This helps retain their juices.
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Why This Recipe is Loved
Convenience: Perfect for busy nights when you want comfort food without the long bake time.
Balanced flavors: The sweetness of the glaze complements the savory, garlicky beef.
Kid appeal: Children love the muffin-sized portions—making dinner a little more fun.
Versatility: Works with ground turkey, chicken, or even a veggie meat substitute.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Mini Meatloaf Muffins
Don’t pack too tightly: Lightly press the meat into the muffin cups to avoid dense, dry results.
Add vegetables: Finely chopped carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers boost nutrition and moisture.
Double the batch: Freeze extras in an airtight container for up to 3 months—perfect for busy weeknights.
Use a meat thermometer: Ensures perfectly cooked, juicy muffins every time.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair your Mini Meatloaf Muffins with:
Creamy mashed potatoes and gravy for a classic comfort combo.
Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli for a healthy side.
Macaroni and cheese for the ultimate cozy meal.
Dinner rolls to soak up every last drop of glaze.
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Final Thoughts
Mini Meatloaf Muffins prove that classic comfort food doesn’t have to be time-consuming. With their quick cook time, kid-approved presentation, and freezer-friendly convenience, these little gems are destined to become a weeknight favorite. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of juicy
meat and sweet-savory glaze—making them just as irresistible as traditional meatloaf, but easier and more fun to enjoy.
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