These meatloaf muffins are a simple and tasty version of the classic dish, made with ground beef and spices baked in muffin cups. Easy to make and great for meal prep, they are a family favorite dinner.

I love making these meatloaf muffins in the fall. The comforting flavors of meatloaf are perfect for cooler weather. When the muffins bake, the smell fills the house and brings everyone together, making it a great dish for family dinners.

My family really loves this recipe. It’s one of their favorites because it’s a fun twist on traditional meatloaf. Each muffin is just the right size for serving, and everyone enjoys having their portion. It makes mealtime more fun and keeps everyone happy.

This recipe is super easy to make and doesn’t take a lot of time. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch quickly. The individual muffins also make it easy to freeze any leftovers for busy nights later on.

You can serve these delicious muffins with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables. They also taste great on their own or in a sandwich. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special occasion, these meatloaf muffins are sure to please the whole family!

What is Meatloaf Muffins?

Meatloaf muffins are a fun and convenient twist on traditional meatloaf. Instead of baking the meat mixture in a loaf shape, it is portioned into muffin tins, creating individual servings. This method allows for quicker cooking times and makes it easier to serve.

The ingredients typically include ground meat (like beef or turkey), breadcrumbs, eggs, and various seasonings. You can customize the muffins by adding vegetables, cheese, or different sauces. Meatloaf muffins are not only delicious but also versatile, making them a great option for family dinners, meal prep, or even as snacks.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)

How to make Meatloaf Muffins

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin.

Step 2:

Combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, ketchup, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian herbs in a large bowl. Mix until well combined, but be careful not to overmix.

Step 3:

Divide the meat mixture evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Press down gently to pack the mix in.

Step 4:

Top each muffin with a small dollop of ketchup for extra flavor and moisture.

Step 5:

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, until the muffins are cooked and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Step 6:

Remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the meatloaf muffins cool for a few minutes before serving.

Additional Tips

• Opt for lean ground beef (like 90/10) to reduce excess fat and keep the muffins from being greasy.

• Consider adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Mixing in shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella can add creaminess and richness to the muffins.

• Experiment with spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or chili powder for a different flavor profile.

• For bite-sized portions, use a mini muffin tin. This will reduce cooking time and create fun, snackable servings.

• Keep an eye on the muffins while baking. If they look done before the suggested time, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

• Instead of ketchup, try using barbecue sauce, sweet chili sauce, or a mixture of honey and mustard as a topping for different flavors.

How to serve Meatloaf Muffins?

You can serve meatloaf muffins with creamy mashed potatoes for a classic comfort food meal. The soft potatoes pair well with the flavorful muffins, making a satisfying combination that everyone will love.

Another great option is to place the muffins on a bed of fresh spinach or mixed greens. This adds a healthy touch and makes your plate look colorful and appealing. You can also serve them with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for extra nutrition.

For a fun twist, try making meatloaf muffins into sandwiches. Just slice them in half and add them to a bun with your favorite sauces. You can also drizzle some warm gravy on top for added flavor. These serving ideas will make your meatloaf muffins delicious and enjoyable for any meal!

Meatloaf Muffins Variations

Cheesy Meatloaf Muffins: Mix shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, into the meat mixture for a cheesy twist. You can also place a small cube of cheese in the center of each muffin for a gooey surprise.

BBQ Meatloaf Muffins: Add barbecue sauce to the meat mixture and top the muffins with additional BBQ sauce before baking. This gives the muffins a sweet and smoky flavor that’s perfect for summer.

Italian Meatloaf Muffins: Mix in Italian herbs like oregano and basil, and use marinara sauce instead of ketchup on top. You can also add chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor boost.

Spicy Meatloaf Muffins: Add chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a spicy kick. Top with a spicy sriracha or hot sauce for added heat.

Vegetable-Packed Muffins: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini into the meat mixture. This adds extra nutrition and flavor to the muffins.

Buffalo Chicken Muffins: Substitute ground chicken for beef and mix in buffalo sauce. Top with a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing before serving for a tasty twist.

How to store

To store meatloaf muffins, let them cool down to room temperature first. Then, put them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the meatloaf muffins. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for a couple of hours. Once they are frozen, move them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw the muffins in the refrigerator overnight and reheat them in the oven or microwave until warm.

FAQ

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

• Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

How long do meatloaf muffins take to bake?

• They usually take about 25-30 minutes to bake at 350°F (175°C).

Can I add vegetables to the muffins?

• Absolutely! You can mix in finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I know when they are done?

• Use a meat thermometer to check; they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).

Meatloaf Muffins Recipe

Recipe by Wasian CookeryCourse: MainCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

12

Muffins

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Total time

45

minutes

These meatloaf muffins are a simple and tasty version of the classic dish, made with ground beef and spices baked in muffin cups. Easy to make and great for meal prep, they are a family favorite dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)

• 1 large egg

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)

Directions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin.
• Combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, ketchup, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian herbs in a large bowl. Mix until well combined, but be careful not to overmix.
• Divide the meat mixture evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Press down gently to pack the mix in.
• Top each muffin with a small dollop of ketchup for extra flavor and moisture.
• Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, until the muffins are cooked and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
• Remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the meatloaf muffins cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

• Carefully remove the muffins from the tin and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.