why make this recipe

Mini Meatloaf in a Muffin Tin is a fun and easy twist on traditional meatloaf. These mini versions cook faster and make perfect portion sizes for a family meal or meal prep. Plus, they are customizable! You can add your favorite vegetables or sauces to make them even tastier. It’s a great way to enjoy a comforting dish with a fun presentation!

how to make Mini Meatloaf in a Muffin Tin

Ingredients :

1 pound ground turkey or ground beef
1/3 cup breadcrumbs or oatmeal
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce or 1/4 cup ketchup
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Optional: assorted vegetables (onions, mushrooms, zucchini, broccoli, carrots, spinach, lentils)

Directions :

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Spray a muffin tin with oil.
In a bowl, mix all the ingredients, reserving 1/4 of the tomato sauce or ketchup for topping.
Press the meat mixture into the muffin cups to form about 8 to 10 muffins.
Top each muffin with a dollop of the reserved sauce.
Bake for 30-35 minutes until cooked through.

how to serve Mini Meatloaf in a Muffin Tin

Once they are baked, allow the mini meatloafs to cool slightly before serving. You can serve them as is or with a side of mashed potatoes, salad, or your favorite vegetable. They also work well in lunch boxes and can be reheated quickly in the microwave.

how to store Mini Meatloaf in a Muffin Tin

To store leftovers, let the mini meatloafs cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage. Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.

tips to make Mini Meatloaf in a Muffin Tin

Use lean ground turkey for a healthier option or beef for more flavor.
Mix in different vegetables to boost nutrition and flavor.
If you like a bit of heat, add some hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the mixture.
Top with shredded cheese in the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy crust.

variation

You can make these mini meatloafs with different flavor profiles. Try adding BBQ sauce instead of tomato sauce for a BBQ meatloaf. You can also experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken in this recipe?
Yes, ground chicken can be used as a substitute for turkey or beef. Just keep in mind that chicken can be a bit drier, so consider adding extra sauce or vegetables.

How can I make these gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats instead of regular ones. Make sure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I make these mini meatloafs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Also, they freeze well, so you can make a batch and enjoy them later.