There’s nothing quite like a comforting meatloaf recipe for dinner. It’s a classic for a good reason, bringing warmth and good flavors to the table. I find it’s the perfect main dish when you want something hearty and satisfying.
I know you love easy dinner ideas, so I’ve put together three fantastic ways to make meatloaf. From quick Instant Pot cooking to fun mini servings, you’ll find a meatloaf method that works perfectly for you and your family.
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Fun Meatloaf Sliders for Parties
These meatloaf sliders are super fun and perfect for casual get-togethers or game nights. They’re bite-sized and easy for everyone to enjoy.
I love making these because they disappear fast and are always a hit with both kids and adults.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Meatloaf Sliders
- Mini Buns: Use small slider buns for the best slider experience. Toasted buns are even better!
- Topping Ideas: Think beyond ketchup. Try adding cheese, pickles, or crispy onions for extra crunch.
- Even Patties: Make sure your meatloaf patties are all about the same size so they cook evenly.
What You Need for Meatloaf Sliders
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Slider buns
- Ketchup or other condiments (e.g., mustard, cheese slices)
⏱️ Time: 35 minutes🍽️ Yields: 12-16 sliders
How to Make Meatloaf Sliders
Step 1: Prepare Meatloaf Mixture
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
Step 2: Form and Bake Patties
Divide the meatloaf mixture into 12-16 small patties, about 2-3 inches wide and half an inch thick. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and nicely browned. You can add a little glaze on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Step 3: Assemble Sliders
Lightly toast your slider buns if you like. Place a cooked meatloaf patty on the bottom half of each bun. Add your favorite toppings and condiments, like a slice of cheese, a dollop of ketchup, or a pickle. Top with the other half of the bun and serve these mini meatloaf sandwiches right away.
📝 Final Note
These patties can be made ahead of time and frozen. Thaw them before baking for a quick meal prep option.
Easy Muffin Tin Meatloaf Servings
Muffin tin meatloaf is perfect for portion control and quick baking. Each person gets their own individual meatloaf, which is super cute.
I really like this method because it means less mess and faster cooking compared to a big loaf.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Muffin Tin Meatloaf
- Grease Your Tin: Make sure to grease your muffin tin well, or use paper liners, so the mini meatloaves don’t stick.
- Glaze Early: Add your glaze to the mini meatloaves about halfway through baking. This helps it caramelize nicely without burning.
- Even Fill: Fill each muffin cup evenly for consistent cooking and sizing.
What You Need for Muffin Tin Meatloaf
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Ketchup-based glaze ingredients (ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar)
- Standard 12-cup muffin tin
⏱️ Time: 30 minutes🍽️ Yields: 12 mini meatloaves
How to Make Muffin Tin Meatloaf
Step 1: Mix Ingredients and Prep Tin
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, salt, and pepper until just combined. Grease a 12-cup muffin tin well, or line it with paper liners.
Step 2: Fill Muffin Cups and Bake
Divide the meatloaf mixture evenly among the 12 muffin cups. You can gently press it down to ensure it fills the cups. Bake for 15 minutes.
Step 3: Glaze and Finish Baking
After 15 minutes, remove the muffin tin from the oven. Spoon a small amount of your favorite ketchup-based glaze over the top of each mini meatloaf. Return to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the meatloaves are cooked through and the glaze is bubbly. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
📝 Final Note
These mini meatloaves are great for meal prepping. Cook them, let them cool, and then freeze them for quick, single-serving meals later.
