This Muffin Tin Meatloaf is a fun twist on the classic dish! Each little meatloaf is perfectly portioned, making it great for dinner or lunch boxes.
Who knew meatloaf could be so cute? I love how easy it is to whip these up, and they cook faster than a full-sized loaf! Perfect for a busy weeknight meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main ingredient for your meatloaf. You can swap with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even mix in ground pork for extra flavor.
Breadcrumbs: They help bind the ingredients together. If you’re gluten-free, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers instead.
Onion and Bell Pepper: Fresh vegetables add moisture and flavor. If you’re sensitive to onions, try using grated zucchini instead. You can skip the bell pepper if you prefer or use chopped mushrooms for added texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nice flavor boost. You can substitute with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
Ketchup: It’s not just a topping; it adds sweetness and moisture. Try using barbecue sauce for a different flavor or tomato sauce for a milder taste.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Mini Meatloaf?
Cooking these meatloaves requires careful attention to avoid dryness. Here’s how to ensure they cook just right:
- First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A properly heated oven means even cooking!
- Combine all ingredients gently to keep the meatloaf tender. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
- Make sure to pack the meat mixture lightly in the muffin cups; this helps them hold their shape while cooking.
- Baking time is key! Check for doneness at 20 minutes, and use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 160°F (71°C).
- If you want a slightly crispy top, broil for a few minutes at the end — just keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Enjoy making these delightful muffin tin meatloaf for a fun, delicious twist on a classic dish!
Muffin Tin Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (can substitute or mix with ground pork or turkey)
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (reserve extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or dried oregano/basil mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 20-25 minutes of baking time. If you choose to broil at the end, add a few extra minutes. Total time is around 40 minutes, and you’ll end up with a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin or spray it with non-stick cooking spray. This helps keep your mini meatloaves from sticking.
2. Mix the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, chopped onion, optional bell pepper, minced garlic, milk, Parmesan cheese, the egg, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined. It’s best to use your hands for this step!
3. Create the Base Layer:
Divide half of the meat mixture evenly into each muffin cup, pressing it slightly down to form a solid base layer that will hold everything together.
4. Add the Cheesy Center:
Now, sprinkle a small amount (about a teaspoon) of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the base layer in each muffin cup. This will create a delicious cheesy surprise in the center of your meatloaf!
5. Top with Remaining Mixture:
Carefully cover the cheese layer with the remaining meat mixture, packing it firmly on top to ensure they hold their shape while baking.
6. Ketchup On Top:
Spread a spoonful of ketchup on the top of each mini meatloaf. This adds flavor and keeps them moist!
7. Bake:
Place your muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meatloaves are cooked through and nicely browned. You can check if they’re done by inserting a meat thermometer into the center; they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
8. Broil for a Crispy Top (Optional):
If you like a slightly crispy topping, turn on the broiler and broil for 2-3 minutes. Just watch them closely to prevent burning.
9. Cool and Remove:
Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the meatloaves rest for a few minutes. This step makes it easier to remove them without falling apart.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Carefully remove the mini meatloaves from the muffin tin. Garnish with additional chopped parsley and serve warm. Enjoy your meal!
These moist, cheesy, and flavorful mini meatloaves are perfect for individual servings or meal prep — a delightful twist on a classic dish!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner option. Just be mindful that turkey can dry out more easily, so you may want to add a bit more milk or moisture to the mixture.
How Can I Make These Meatloaves Gluten-Free?
To make the muffins gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers instead of regular bread crumbs. This will keep the texture intact while accommodating dietary needs.
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and assemble the muffin tins a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re going in cold.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaves in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave them until warmed through, or place them in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) to maintain their texture.
