These mini meatloaf muffins are packed with flavor, tender, and perfectly portioned for a quick and easy meal. Made with ground beef or turkey, a delicious blend of seasonings, and a sweet and tangy glaze, they are a great alternative to traditional meatloaf.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love how these meatloaf muffins cook faster than a traditional meatloaf while staying juicy and flavorful. They are easy to prepare, great for meal prep, and kid-friendly. Plus, they pair well with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad, making them a versatile meal option.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Meatloaf Muffins:
1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free)
1/4 cup milk
1 egg
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper
For the Glaze:
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon mustard
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin or line it with muffin liners.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, oregano, cheese (if using), onion, and bell pepper. Mix until just combined.
Divide the mixture evenly into the muffin tin, pressing down slightly to form small domes.
In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard for the glaze.
Spoon or brush the glaze over each meatloaf muffin.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Let them cool for a few minutes before removing from the tin. Serve warm with mashed potatoes or a side of veggies.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6 muffins
Calories per Serving: 210 kcal
Variations
Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for extra heat.
Different Protein: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in extra shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a cheesy bite.
Low-Carb Option: Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs to keep it keto-friendly.
BBQ Twist: Replace the ketchup in the glaze with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigeration: Store leftover meatloaf muffins in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooked muffins in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 30-40 seconds or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes until heated through.
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FAQs
How do I keep meatloaf muffins from falling apart?
I make sure to use enough binding ingredients like eggs and breadcrumbs to hold everything together. Also, I avoid overmixing the meat mixture.
Can I make these meatloaf muffins ahead of time?
Yes, I can prepare the meat mixture and fill the muffin tin, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
What sides go well with meatloaf muffins?
I love serving them with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
Can I use a different glaze?
Absolutely! I sometimes swap the ketchup glaze for BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or a balsamic glaze for a different twist.
How do I know when meatloaf muffins are done?
I check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer—once it reaches 160°F (71°C), they are ready.
Conclusion
These mini meatloaf muffins are a fantastic way to enjoy a classic comfort food in a quicker, more convenient form. They are juicy, flavorful, and easy to customize to different tastes and dietary needs. Whether for meal prep, a family dinner, or a grab-and-go lunch, I love how simple and satisfying they are. Give them a try and enjoy a delicious twist on traditional meatloaf.
📖 Recipe:
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Meatloaf Muffins
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 muffins
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Meatloaf Muffins are a quick and delicious twist on classic meatloaf, perfectly portioned for easy serving. Made with ground beef or turkey, a flavorful mix of seasonings, and topped with a sweet and tangy glaze, these mini meatloaves are moist, tender, and ideal for meal prep. Great for busy weeknights or a kid-friendly meal, they pair perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf Muffins:
1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free)
1/4 cup milk
1 egg
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper
For the Glaze:
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin or line it with muffin liners.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, oregano, cheese (if using), onion, and bell pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Portion into muffin tin: Divide the meat mixture evenly among the muffin cups, pressing down slightly to form small domes.
- Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard.
- Glaze the muffins: Spoon or brush the glaze over each meatloaf muffin.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Cool & Serve: Let them cool for a few minutes before removing from the tin. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the meat mixture.
Different Protein: Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Cheesy Upgrade: Add extra shredded cheese for a melty, cheesy bite.
Low-Carb Option: Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
BBQ Flavor: Replace ketchup in the glaze with BBQ sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 muffins
- Calories: 210 kcal
