Muffin Tin Meatloaf is a fun twist on the classic dish! These individual meatloaves are perfect for portion control and cook up quickly. Each bite is packed with flavor and comfort.
Making them in a muffin tin is so much easier—and let’s be honest, it’s just more fun to eat! 😄 I love serving them with mashed potatoes and veggies for a cozy dinner night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually use 80/20 ground beef for the right balance of flavor and moistness. If you prefer something leaner, try ground turkey or chicken. For extra flavor, combine it with some sausage or pork.
Onion & Bell Pepper: These veggies add great flavor. You can swap yellow onion for the white or use any other bell pepper color you have. If you dislike bell peppers, zucchini or shredded carrots work well too!
Breadcrumbs: I like using plain breadcrumbs, but oats can be a healthy substitute. They provide nice texture, and gluten-free breadcrumbs are an option if you’re avoiding gluten.
Ketchup: Ketchup adds sweetness and moisture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using low-sugar ketchup or barbecue sauce. You can even make your own if you have the time!
How Can I Ensure My Meatloaf Stays Moist?
Keeping meatloaf moist is key to a good texture. Here are some tips to help you:
- Don’t overmix the meat when combining ingredients. This makes it dense.
- Adding eggs and milk helps keep the meatloaf tender, so don’t skip those!
- Be sure to use enough fat; leaner meats might need extra moisture.
- Using the muffin tin allows for quicker cooking and helps avoid dryness.
Following these steps should give you a moist, tasty muffin tin meatloaf every time!
Muffin Tin Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs, beaten
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs or parsley
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes of cooking time. You’ll have delicious, ready-to-eat meatloaf cups in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, chopped green bell pepper, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until just combined. Be gentle—overmixing can make your meatloaf tough!
3. Fill the Muffin Cups:
Divide the meat mixture evenly among the muffin cups, pressing gently to pack the mixture in and form mini meatloaves. This helps them hold their shape while cooking.
4. Add Ketchup for Glaze:
Spread a spoonful of ketchup on top of each mini meatloaf. This will create a delicious sweet glaze while they bake.
5. Bake Until Done:
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. They’re ready when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the tops appear slightly caramelized and golden.
6. Let Rest & Remove:
After baking, remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the meatloaf cups to rest for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully remove them from the tin using a spoon or spatula.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a touch of color and flavor. Enjoy your Muffin Tin Meatloaf warm, ideally paired with mashed potatoes and steamed veggies!
Enjoy your delicious and easy-to-make Muffin Tin Meatloaf! Perfect for a cozy dinner any night of the week!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great healthier substitute. Be mindful that turkey is usually leaner, so you may want to add a bit more moisture, such as an extra egg or a tablespoon of olive oil, to keep the meatloaf tender.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can! You can prepare the meat mixture a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, just fill the muffin tin and bake—no need to bring it to room temperature before cooking!
What Should I Do with Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. These mini meatloaves also make great sandwiches!
Can I Freeze Muffin Tin Meatloaf?
Yes! To freeze, let the meatloaf cups cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, and transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed!
