why make this recipe

Mini Meatloaf in a Muffin Tin is a fantastic dish that brings comfort food to a whole new level. This recipe is easy to make, fun to serve, and loved by both kids and adults. It’s a perfect solution for busy weeknights, as it cooks quickly and can be customized to fit everyone’s tastes. Plus, using a muffin tin means each serving is perfectly portioned and ready to enjoy!

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

These mini meatloafs are great on their own, but you can also serve them with a side of mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad. Kids love to eat them with a side of ketchup for dipping. They are perfect for a cozy family dinner!

how to store Mini Meatloaf in a Muffin Tin

To store Mini Meatloaf, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

tips to make Mini Meatloaf in a Muffin Tin

Feel free to experiment with different ground meats, such as chicken or pork, depending on your preference.
Adding vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutrition. Finely chop them to blend well into the meat mixture.
You can use different sauces or glazes on top, like barbecue sauce or a homemade glaze, for added flavor.

variation

Try making these mini meatloafs with a different flavor profile by adding herbs like thyme or basil. You can also make variations by mixing in different cheeses or using spicy sauces for an extra kick!

FAQs

Q: Can I make these meatloafs ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Q: How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
A: The mini meatloafs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees F (70 degrees C) for ground beef or 165 degrees F (75 degrees C) for ground turkey.

Q: Can I use a different type of bread instead of breadcrumbs?
A: Absolutely! You can use crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked rice in place of breadcrumbs.