Muffin Tin Meatloaf is a fun and easy twist on the classic dish! These cute mini meatloaves are packed with tasty flavors and make the perfect portion sizes for everyone.
Plus, they bake super fast, so you can serve dinner in no time. I love adding a drizzle of ketchup on top for that extra zing—who doesn’t love a little ketchup magic? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using lean ground beef for a healthy option. You can also mix it with ground pork for extra flavor. If you’re avoiding red meat, ground turkey or chicken works well and keeps it light.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs are common, but if you’re gluten-free, try crushed gluten-free crackers or oats. For a fun twist, seasoned breadcrumbs add an extra layer of flavor!
Onion: Chopped onions give aroma and flavor, but if you’re not a fan, you could use shallots or skip them entirely. To save time, some people use onion powder instead.
Milk: The milk keeps the meat moist. If lactose is an issue, try almond milk, soy milk, or even chicken broth for added flavor!
Ketchup: While ketchup is classic, barbecue sauce or a mix of ketchup and mustard can change things up a bit. I find mixing in a little hot sauce gives it a fun kick!
How Can I Shape and Cook the Meatloaf for Best Results?
Shaping your meatloaf in a muffin tin is super easy and gives quick cooking times. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Preheat the oven—this is important for even cooking.
- Mix ingredients gently. Too much mixing can make your meatloaf tough!
- Pack the mixture into the cups lightly. This keeps them tender while still holding shape.
- Ketchup on top not only adds flavor but also looks amazing once cooked.
- Use a thermometer! Aim for an internal temp of 160°F for perfectly cooked meat.
Don’t forget to let them rest for a few minutes after baking. It helps them firm up and makes removing them from the tin easier!
How to Make Muffin Tin Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (or mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper (optional)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried parsley)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1/3 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious muffin tin meatloaf recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 20-25 minutes for baking, making it a quick and easy dinner option. Plus, you’ll have them ready in under an hour—perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your meatloaf cooks evenly. While the oven is heating, lightly grease a muffin tin with non-stick spray or a little oil.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, bell pepper (if using), milk, egg, minced garlic, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, thyme, and 1/3 cup of ketchup. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together gently until combined. Remember, don’t overmix; this keeps your meatloaf nice and tender!
3. Fill the Muffin Tin:
Divide the meat mixture evenly into the muffin tin cups. Press each one down lightly to shape them. You should have about 8-10 mini meatloaves, depending on your muffin tin size.
4. Add Ketchup Topping:
Spoon a small amount of ketchup on top of each meatloaf for a tasty glaze. This will add flavor and a nice caramelized finish while they bake.
5. Bake Them:
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. They are done when no longer pink in the center, and a meat thermometer reads 160°F (71°C).
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the mini meatloaves rest for a few minutes. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to remove. Carefully take them out of the tin.
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
If desired, garnish with extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve these hot mini meatloaves with mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a side salad for a wholesome meal.
These muffin tin meatloaves are a hit at family dinners and make for fantastic meal prep options. Enjoy your deliciously easy dinner!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of meat you use.
How Can I Make These Meatloaves Keto-Friendly?
To make this dish keto-friendly, substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds, almond flour, or grated parmesan cheese. This will help reduce the carb content while still keeping it delicious!
Can I Freeze These Mini Meatloaves?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatloaves! Simply shape them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Cook directly from frozen but add additional cooking time.
What Should I Serve With Muffin Tin Meatloaf?
These mini meatloaves pair well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh side salad. You can also serve them in a bun for a fun twist on meatloaf sandwiches!