FAMILY DINNER

Mini Meatloaf Muffins

Seasoned ground beef in individual portions with a tangy tomato glaze, creating juicy centers, caramelized edges, and faster cooking than a full loaf.

Jump to Recipe
Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings6
DifficultyEasy

Ingredients

For the Meatloaves

  • 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
  • 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1/3 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 small onion, finely grated
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Glaze

  • 1/3 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Substitutions

  • Lean ground turkey can replace ground beef; cook the center to 165°F.
  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers as the binder.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the pan

Heat the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease 12 standard muffin cups.

Step 2: Make the mixture

Combine breadcrumbs and milk for 2 minutes. Add beef, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire, seasoning, salt, and pepper; mix gently.

Make the mixture for Mini Meatloaf Muffins

Step 3: Shape

Divide the mixture among the muffin cups without packing it tightly.

Shape for Mini Meatloaf Muffins

Step 4: Glaze

Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard and spoon over each meatloaf.

Step 5: Bake

Bake 20 to 25 minutes, until the centers reach 160°F. Rest 5 minutes before lifting from the pan.

Bake for Mini Meatloaf Muffins
Finished Mini Meatloaf Muffins ready to serve

Why the Muffin-Pan Method Works

Soaking the breadcrumbs in milk before mixing helps distribute moisture through the beef. Mix the meat only until the ingredients are combined; packing or overworking it makes the small meatloaves firmer.

Because the portions are small, they cook faster than a standard loaf. Use the 160°F center temperature rather than extending the bake just for a darker surface.

How to Store Leftovers

Refrigerate the cooked portion of Mini Meatloaf Muffins within 2 hours in a sealed container and use it within 3 to 4 days.

How to Reheat

Place the meatloaf muffins in a small covered baking dish and warm at 325°F until hot in the center. Add a teaspoon of water to the dish if the glaze looks dry.

For one portion, use short microwave intervals and keep it covered so the individual meatloaf does not dry around the edges.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient Per Serving
Calories 320
Protein 25g
Carbohydrates 16g
Fat 17g
Sugar 7g

Nutrition is an estimate and can vary with brands, portion size, and substitutions.

About the Author

FreshFork Recipes Team edits each recipe page for clear measurements, consistent instructions, and practical cooking guidance.

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