Muffin Tin Meatloaf is a fun twist on the classic dish, made in handy little cups! Each serving is packed with flavors and is super cute, making it perfect for kids and grown-ups alike.
Making these mini meatloafs is a breeze! I love that they cook faster, and you can personalize each cup with your favorite toppings. Plus, who doesn’t love a bite-sized meal? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like to use a mix of ground beef and pork for extra flavor, but you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. This will still hold together well in the muffin tin.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work perfectly, but if you’re gluten-free, try crushed gluten-free crackers or oats instead. They’ll give you a similar texture!
Milk: Feel free to substitute with almond milk, coconut milk, or any plant-based milk if you’re lactose intolerant. It won’t change the flavor much!
Onion and Garlic: If you’re not a fan of onions, try using onion powder or even some grated carrots for sweetness. You can skip garlic altogether or use garlic powder if you prefer.
Ketchup: If you’re out of ketchup, BBQ sauce makes a great alternative. You’ll still get that sweet-tangy glaze on top!
How Do I Keep My Meatloaf from Being Dry?
To keep your Muffin Tin Meatloaf moist, start with your wet ingredients. Soaking the breadcrumbs in milk is key; it adds moisture. Mixing everything gently and avoiding overmixing keeps it from becoming tough. Each little muffin cup should be packed, but not too tightly!
- Mix until just combined to prevent a dense texture.
- Check for doneness using a meat thermometer: it should read 160°F (71°C).
- Let them rest after baking; they’ll hold their shape better when you take them out of the tin.
Muffin Tin Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 20-25 minutes to bake, totaling around 35-40 minutes. You’ll be enjoying tasty mini meatloafs in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, grab a 6-cup muffin tin and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little oil to prevent sticking.
2. Soak the Breadcrumbs:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let this sit for a few minutes so the breadcrumbs can soak up the milk. This keeps your meatloaf nice and moist!
3. Mix Ingredients:
Add the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix everything gently until just combined. Remember, don’t overmix—it can make the meatloaf tough!
4. Fill the Muffin Cups:
Evenly divide the meat mixture among the muffin cups. Press the mixture down lightly to shape each into a little loaf.
5. Add Ketchup:
Top each mini meatloaf with a spoonful of ketchup. This gives it a nice glaze and extra flavor.
6. Bake:
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. They’re done when they’re cooked through and the tops are slightly golden.
7. Cool and Remove:
Once baked, take the muffin tin out of the oven and let the mini meatloafs rest for a few minutes. This helps them set up a bit before you try to remove them. Use a fork or spatula to gently lift them out of the tin.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color! Serve these delightful meatloaf bites warm, either by themselves or with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or a salad.
Enjoy your delightful Muffin Tin Meatloaf bites! 🍽️
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. Just keep in mind that it may cook a little faster, so check for doneness a few minutes early.
Can I Make These Meatloafs Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can easily make these gluten-free by substituting regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. They’ll still turn out delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or warm them up in the oven until heated through.
Can I Freeze These Meatloafs?
Definitely! You can freeze the uncooked meatloafs before baking. Just form them in the muffin tin, then cover and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
