Name: Simple Mini Meatloaf Muffins Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-488756H2M17S
Total time: PT-488756H2M17S
Cuisine: Americans
Ingredients: • 1 lb ground beef• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs• 2 eggs, lightly beaten• 1/2 cup milk• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese• 2 cloves garlic, minced• 1 small onion, finely chopped• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce• 1 tsp dried oregano• 1/2 tsp salt• 1/4 tsp black pepper

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Imagine a savory, bite-sized meatloaf that’s perfectly moist and packed with flavor – that’s exactly what you’ll get with this simple Mini Meatloaf Muffins Recipe. These adorable little muffins are the ultimate comfort food, and they’re surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun and unique dish to serve at your next gathering, these mini meatloaf muffins are sure to impress.

What sets this recipe apart is the way the ingredients come together to create a truly irresistible texture and taste. The blend of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and aromatic seasonings results in a meatloaf that’s both tender and satisfying. And baking the mixture in a muffin tin gives you perfectly portioned servings that are easy to serve and eat.

But don’t just take our word for it – keep reading to discover why you’ll fall in love with this recipe, the key ingredients that make it shine, and all the tips and tricks you need to create mini meatloaf muffins that are nothing short of flawless.

🥰 Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe ?

These mini meatloaf muffins are the perfect balance of savory, comforting, and downright delicious. The key is in the way the ingredients work together to create a truly exceptional texture and flavor profile.

First, the ground beef is combined with breadcrumbs, eggs, and a blend of seasonings that include garlic, onion, and Worcestershire sauce. This not only adds layers of flavor but also helps to keep the meatloaf incredibly moist and tender. The addition of shredded cheddar cheese also provides a lovely, melty element that takes each bite to new heights of cheesy goodness.

But the real magic happens when you bake these mini muffins in a muffin tin. The individual portions cook up perfectly, with a crisp exterior and a soft, juicy interior. And the small size makes them the perfect easy-to-eat comfort food that’s great for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

🥕 A Look at What Goes Into This Dish

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

The breadcrumbs in this recipe are the key to achieving a perfectly moist and tender meatloaf. They help to bind the ingredients together while also providing a light, airy texture. And the shredded cheddar cheese adds a delightful melty element that perfectly complements the savory beef.

📖 Follow These Steps for Flawless Results

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray or line it with paper liners.
Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, cheddar cheese, garlic, onion, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
Fill the Muffin Tin: Divide the meatloaf mixture evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling them about three-quarters full.
Bake to Perfection: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a meat thermometer inserted into the center of a muffin reads 165°F (75°C). Keep an eye on them towards the end, as you don’t want the edges to become too crispy.
Rest and Serve: Allow the mini meatloaf muffins to rest in the tin for 5 minutes before carefully removing them. Serve hot, with your favorite sides and garnishes.

⏱️ Timing Overview

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 18-22 minutes
• Total time: 33-37 minutes

👩‍⚕️ A Quick Look at the Nutrition Facts

Nutritional information is an estimate per serving, based on 12 servings.

• Calories: 201 kcal
• Protein: 15 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fat: 10 g
• Fiber: 1 g

💡 How to Customize This Recipe ?

• For a Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The liquid ratios should remain the same.
• To Make it Vegan: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative, such as crumbled tofu or lentils. Use a vegan cheese shreds or omit the cheese altogether. Replace the eggs with a flax or chia seed egg substitute.
• To Add a Spicy Kick: Mix in 1-2 tablespoons of your favorite hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture before baking. You can also top the muffins with a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes before serving.

🥗 Finishing Touches and Serving Ideas

• Main Course Pairing: Serve the mini meatloaf muffins alongside a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Garnish Suggestions: Garnish the muffins with a dollop of tangy barbecue sauce, a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives, and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy touch.
• Beverage Pairing: These mini meatloaf muffins pair wonderfully with a crisp, chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

⚠️ How to Sidestep Common Cooking Pitfalls ?

• Mistake 1 – Overmixing the Meatloaf Mixture: Be careful not to overmix the meatloaf mixture, as this can develop too much gluten and result in a tough, dense texture. Gently fold the ingredients together until they are just combined.
• Mistake 2 – Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure all of your ingredients, especially the ground beef, are at room temperature before you begin. Cold ingredients can affect the overall texture and cooking time of the meatloaf muffins.
• Mistake 3 – Not Preheating the Oven: Properly preheating your oven is crucial for achieving the perfect crisp exterior and juicy interior on these mini meatloaf muffins. Rushing the oven temperature can lead to uneven cooking and potentially dry out the meatloaf.

🕒 A Guide to Storing for Later

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover mini meatloaf muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: These meatloaf muffins can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped muffins in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply place the frozen muffins in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

❓ FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for the ground beef in this recipe. The cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly, as turkey and chicken tend to cook faster than beef. Be sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure the muffins reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

How do I prevent the meatloaf muffins from sticking to the pan?

To prevent the mini meatloaf muffins from sticking to the pan, be sure to grease the muffin tin thoroughly with nonstick cooking spray or line the cups with paper liners. This will create a barrier between the meatloaf and the pan, making it easy to remove the muffins once baked.

Can I make these meatloaf muffins ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance. Simply store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. When ready to cook, simply scoop the mixture into the prepared muffin tin and bake as directed. This makes for a super convenient weeknight meal or party appetizer.

How can I get the meatloaf muffins to hold their shape?

The key to getting the mini meatloaf muffins to hold their shape is to not overfill the muffin cups. Filling them only about three-quarters full will allow the meatloaf to bake up nice and compact, without spilling over the sides. Additionally, be sure not to overmix the meatloaf mixture, as this can make the texture too dense and tough.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe can easily be doubled to make 24 mini meatloaf muffins. Simply use two 12-cup muffin tins and adjust the baking time as needed, checking for doneness after 18 minutes. This makes for a great option when feeding a crowd or wanting to have extra servings on hand for leftovers.

🥳 Wrapping It Up

These simple, yet incredibly delicious Mini Meatloaf Muffins are a surefire way to bring a little extra joy to your dinner table. With their perfectly portioned size, irresistible flavor, and easy preparation, they’re sure to become a new family favorite. So preheat your oven, grab your muffin tin, and get ready to savor every bite of these mini meatloaf masterpieces. Bon appétit!

For an extra special touch, try serving the muffins with a dollop of creamy mashed potatoes and a sprinkle of crispy fried onions on top. The combination of the tender meatloaf, fluffy potatoes, and crunchy onions is truly out of this world. So don’t be afraid to get creative and put your own unique spin on this beloved recipe.

No matter how you decide to enjoy them, these Mini Meatloaf Muffins are sure to become a new staple in your recipe repertoire. So go ahead, give them a try, and let us know what you think. Happy cooking!