If you love the flavor of classic meatloaf but want something quicker, cuter, and perfectly portioned, these Mini Meatloaf Muffins will be your new go-to weeknight dinner.
They bake in half the time of a traditional loaf, are easy to serve, and pack all the savory flavor you know and love—plus, they’re ideal for meal prep. Whether you’re feeding kids, serving a crowd, or stocking the freezer, this recipe delivers delicious results every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect portions – Individual muffins mean no messy slicing.
- Fast cooking – Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Kid-friendly – Fun to eat and easy to customize.
- Meal prep magic – Store or freeze for future dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Meatloaf
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef – Juicy, flavorful base.
- ½ cup chopped onion – Adds sweetness and moisture.
- ½ cup chopped bell pepper – Mild crunch and color.
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce – Deep, savory umami.
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley – Fresh herbal brightness.
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard – Tangy balance to the rich beef.
- ¼ cup BBQ sauce – Sweet and smoky kick.
- ⅔ cup bread crumbs – Binds the mixture and gives structure.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – Subtle herb blend.
- 1 tsp garlic powder – Savory depth.
- 1 large egg – Binds ingredients together.
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Glaze
- ¼ cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp ketchup
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin.
2. Mix the Meatloaf
In a large bowl, combine all meatloaf ingredients. Mix gently—overmixing can make the texture dense.
3. Fill Muffin Cups
Divide the mixture evenly among 10 muffin cups, pressing gently into each.
4. Add the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk BBQ sauce and ketchup. Brush or spoon over the top of each muffin.
5. Bake
Bake for 25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Rest & Serve
Let muffins rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices before serving.
Pro Tips for Success
- Cheesy surprise – Press a cube of cheddar or mozzarella into the center of each muffin before baking.
- Even cooking – Avoid overfilling muffin cups; this ensures all portions cook evenly.
- Extra veggies – Finely chop carrots, zucchini, or spinach to sneak in more nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Roasted green beans or steamed broccoli
- Dinner rolls or cornbread
For appetizers, serve with toothpicks and extra BBQ sauce for dipping.
Storage & Freezing
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individually and freeze up to 3 months. Reheat at 350°F until warmed through.
Why This Recipe Works
Baking meatloaf in muffin tins not only speeds up cooking, but also ensures each serving stays juicy and flavorful. The tangy-sweet glaze caramelizes perfectly in the oven, making every bite crave-worthy.
Final Thoughts
These Mini Meatloaf Muffins prove that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With simple ingredients, quick prep, and big flavor, they’re perfect for busy nights, picky eaters, or anyone craving a cozy, home-cooked meal in half the time.
Once you make them, you’ll wonder why you ever went back to the loaf pan.
Leave a Reply