Meatloaf is a classic comfort meal, and it’s one I really love to make. But sometimes, the usual loaf can feel a little… well, usual. If you’re looking to change up your dinner routine or find new ways to enjoy this hearty dish, you’re in the right place.
I’ve gathered three amazing meatloaf ideas that take the familiar flavor you love and present it in exciting new ways. From bite-sized snacks to a cheesy main course, I think you’ll find a new favorite here. Let’s get cooking!
Jump to Recipe:
- 1. Mini Meatloaf Sliders for Fun Dinners
- 2. Easy Muffin Tin Meatloaf for Portion Control
- 3. Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf: A Hearty Dinner
Mini Meatloaf Sliders for Fun Dinners
These tiny meatloaves on slider buns are perfect for parties or a quick weeknight dinner. They are easy to hold and pack all the great meatloaf taste into a small bite.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Meatloaf Sliders
- Ground Beef Choice: I use 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and moisture in these small meatloaf patties.
- Slider Buns: Don’t forget soft slider buns! Brioche buns work really well here for a slightly sweet touch.
- Mini Patties: Make sure to form your meatloaf mixture into small, even patties so they cook at the same speed.
What You Need for Meatloaf Sliders
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1 tbsp ketchup (for the mix)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Slider buns
- Cheese slices (optional)
- Pickles and sauce for serving
⏱️ Time: 40 minutes🍽️ Yields: 12 sliders
How to Make Your Meatloaf Sliders
Step 1: Mix the Meatloaf Base
In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, 1 tablespoon of ketchup, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to combine everything well but don’t overmix.
Step 2: Form and Bake Sliders
Shape the meatloaf mixture into 12 small, flat patties, about the size of your slider buns. Place them on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Step 3: Assemble Your Meatloaf Sliders
Once cooked, place a small slice of cheese on each hot meatloaf patty, if using, to melt slightly. Serve the meatloaf patties on slider buns with your favorite toppings like pickles, onions, or extra ketchup.
📝 Final Note
These meatloaf sliders can be made ahead of time and reheated gently for a quick meal later.
Easy Muffin Tin Meatloaf for Portion Control
Making meatloaf in a muffin tin is a clever way to get perfectly portioned servings every time. These individual meatloaves cook faster and are great for meal prep.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Muffin Tin Meatloaf
- Muffin Tin Liners: Use paper liners or spray your muffin tin well to prevent sticking. This makes cleanup much easier.
- Glaze is Key: A simple ketchup and brown sugar glaze on top really adds a nice finish and taste. Don’t skip it!
- Even Cooking: Fill each muffin cup evenly to make sure all your meatloaves cook at the same rate.
What You Need for Muffin Tin Meatloaf
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup finely diced bell pepper
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt, garlic powder, onion powder to taste
- For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp mustard
⏱️ Time: 45 minutes🍽️ Yields: 12 mini meatloaves
How to Make Your Muffin Tin Meatloaf
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mix
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, diced bell pepper, Worcestershire sauce, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix gently until just combined.
Step 2: Fill Muffin Tins
Divide the meatloaf mixture evenly among 12 muffin cups. Lightly press the mixture into each cup.
Step 3: Make and Add Glaze
In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard for the glaze. Spread a spoonful of this glaze over the top of each mini meatloaf.
Step 4: Bake Until Done
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C). Let them rest for a few minutes before removing from the muffin tin.
📝 Final Note
These are great for packed lunches! Just let them cool completely before storing them in airtight containers in the fridge.
Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf: A Hearty Dinner
If you love the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak, you’ll really like this meatloaf version. It’s packed with onions, peppers, and plenty of cheese, making it a very satisfying meal.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf
- Sauté Veggies First: Cooking the onions and peppers before adding them to the meatloaf mix softens them and brings out their flavor, which is important for this dish.
- Cheese Choice: Provolone cheese is classic for a Philly cheesesteak. Use slices to layer over the top for that perfect melt.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the meatloaf ingredients to keep the meatloaf tender and juicy.
What You Need for Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 6 slices provolone cheese
- Optional: Hoagie rolls for serving
⏱️ Time: 1 hour 15 minutes🍽️ Yields: 6-8 servings
How to Make Your Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf
Step 1: Cook the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and green bell pepper. Cook until they are soft and lightly browned, about 8-10 minutes. Let them cool down a bit.
Step 2: Mix Meatloaf Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the cooled cooked onions and peppers. Mix everything well by hand, but don’t mix too much.
Step 3: Form and Bake Meatloaf
Shape the meatloaf mixture into a loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
Take the meatloaf out of the oven. Place the provolone cheese slices evenly over the top. Return it to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the meatloaf is cooked through.
📝 Final Note
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking before slicing. This helps it hold its shape and keeps it juicy. Serve it as a main course or on hoagie rolls for a hearty sandwich.
