Mini Meatloaf Recipe

There's something undeniably cozy about the scent of mini meatloaves baking in the oven. These adorable, individual-sized portions take the classic meatloaf we all know and love and make it even more convenient. Perfectly portioned for quick cooking, this recipe is an instant crowd-pleaser.

I first started making mini meatloaves on a whim, hoping to save time while still delivering that hearty, comforting flavor. Little did I know, it would become a go-to for busy weeknights and family dinners alike. Let’s dive in and discover why this recipe is about to become your favorite too.

Why You'll Love This Mini Meatloaf Recipe

Prepare to fall in love with mini meatloaf for all the right reasons. From its quick cooking time to its kid-friendly appeal, these little loaves have so much to offer.

First, they’re incredibly fast and easy to make. Unlike traditional meatloaf, which can take over an hour to bake, mini meatloaves cook in just 20-25 minutes. This makes them perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table in a flash.

Second, they’re perfectly portioned. Whether you're serving a family of four or hosting a dinner party, mini meatloaves make serving effortless. No slicing, no mess – just grab one (or two!) and enjoy.

Another reason to love this recipe is its customizable nature. You can adjust the seasonings, swap proteins, or even sneak in some extra veggies to suit your taste.

Finally, mini meatloaf is freezer-friendly. Make a double batch and freeze the extras for a quick and hearty meal whenever you need it.

Ready to get started? Let’s talk about the ingredients that make these mini marvels shine.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of mini meatloaf lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

• Ground Meat: Traditional meatloaf is often made with ground beef, but a mix of ground beef and pork gives it a richer flavor. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Breadcrumbs: These act as a binder, ensuring your mini loaves stay moist and tender. Panko breadcrumbs work well, but any type of breadcrumbs will do.
• Eggs: Eggs are essential for binding the mixture together and adding richness. Use large eggs for the best results.
• Seasonings: A blend of onion powder, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and a touch of ketchup gives the meatloaf that classic, savory taste. Don’t forget the salt and pepper to bring out the flavors!
• Milk: Just a splash of milk keeps the meat mixture moist without making it soggy.
• Glaze: A mixture of ketchup, brown sugar, and a dash of mustard creates a sweet and tangy topping that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.

Special equipment? Not really. A standard muffin tin works perfectly for shaping and baking these mini loaves. Let’s move on to the fun part – putting it all together!

How To Make This Mini Meatloaf Recipe

Creating these mini meatloaves is easier than you think. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your meatloaves turn out perfect every time.

1. Preheat and Prep
   Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Mix the Meat Mixture
   In a large mixing bowl, combine your ground meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, and seasonings. Use your hands to mix everything gently but thoroughly. Overmixing can make the meatloaf dense, so stop as soon as it comes together.
3. Shape and Fill
   Divide the mixture evenly into the muffin tin, pressing it down lightly to create compact loaves. This recipe typically yields about 8-12 mini meatloaves, depending on the size of your muffin tin.
4. Add the Glaze
   In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spoon the glaze over each mini loaf, spreading it to cover the surface. This step adds incredible flavor and a glossy finish.
5. Bake
   Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Let the mini meatloaves rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Dinner is served! Pair your mini meatloaves with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a crisp side salad for a complete meal.

Storage Options

One of the best things about mini meatloaf is how well it keeps. Here’s how to store leftovers or prepare them in advance:

• Refrigerate: Store cooled meatloaves in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Place uncooked or cooked meatloaves on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last up to 3 months.
• Reheat: To reheat, pop them in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

• Switch the Protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a different flavor profile.
• Add Veggies: Finely grated carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms can be mixed into the meat for added nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a little heat.
• Cheesy Surprise: Stuff a small cube of cheese into the center of each mini loaf before baking for a gooey, melty surprise.
• Glaze Alternatives: Swap the traditional ketchup glaze for BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or marinara sauce.

No matter how you customize it, mini meatloaf is sure to delight. Have fun experimenting and finding your family’s favorite version!

Mini meatloaf is proof that big flavor can come in small packages. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe has you covered. Give it a try and watch it become a new household favorite!

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