Muffin Tin Meatloaf is a fun twist on the classic dish! These little meatloaf cups are juicy and full of flavor, perfect for busy nights or lunchboxes.
Who knew meatloaf could be so cute? I love how fast they cook and how easy they are to serve. Plus, you can top them with your favorite sauce for extra yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor, but you can go for all beef or turkey for a lighter option. If you’re vegetarian, try using lentils or chickpeas as a base instead.
Bread Crumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs give a nice texture. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes. Sometimes I even use oats for added heartiness.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a delicious salty flavor. Pecorino Romano is a great substitute if you want a sharper taste. Nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option.
Onion and Bell Pepper: These keep the meatloaf moist and flavorful. You can swap them for grated carrots or zucchini if you prefer. Just ensure they are finely chopped!
What’s the Best Way to Mix Meatloaf Without Making It Tough?
Mixing meatloaf can be tricky. You want to blend well without overworking the meat. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use your hands, as they’re gentler than a spoon. Mix until just combined; don’t mash it!
- Incorporate wet and dry ingredients together first to avoid lumps.
- Try not to overpack the muffin cups; a light press is all it takes to hold the shape.
Letting the meat mixture rest for a few minutes before filling the muffin tin can help the flavors meld, too!
Muffin Tin Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup finely chopped bell pepper (optional)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 cup ketchup or tomato sauce (for topping)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you can have these delicious muffin tin meatloaves ready in about 40-45 minutes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Tin:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or a bit of oil. This step is important to ensure that your meatloaf muffins come out easily after baking.
2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, chopped onion, and bell pepper if you’ve chosen to use it. Next, add in the milk, egg, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, oregano, and basil. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well blended, being careful not to overmix it—just enough to combine!
3. Fill the Muffin Cups:
Take the meat mixture and divide it evenly among the muffin cups. Press down gently to shape each cup without packing it too tightly. This will help them cook evenly and stay tender!
4. Add the Sauce:
With a spoon, add a dollop of ketchup or tomato sauce on top of each meatloaf cup. This adds extra flavor and a lovely glaze while it bakes.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and no longer pink inside. A meat thermometer should read 160°F (70°C) in the center when they’re done.
6. Cheese It Up:
Once baked, take the muffin tin out of the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of each meatloaf cup. Return the tin to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
7. Cool and Garnish:
Allow the meatloaf cups to cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the muffin tin. You can use a table knife around the edges to help lift them out. Garnish with extra chopped parsley before serving!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your adorable and flavorful muffin tin meatloafs warm, either on their own or with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. They’re perfect for meal prep or a fun family dinner!
These cute, flavorful meatloaf muffins are not just delicious but also great for portion control and easy serving. Have fun cooking!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a healthier alternative and works great in this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey can be a bit drier, so you might want to add a tablespoon more of milk or an extra egg to keep it moist.
How Do I Store Leftover Muffin Tin Meatloaf?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. They also freeze well, so consider freezing them for up to 3 months!
Can I Add Vegetables to the Meatloaf?
Yes! Finely chopped vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms can be great additions. Just make sure they are chopped very small so they blend well into the meat mixture without compromising the texture.
What Can I Use Instead of Ketchup for Topping?
If you’d like to switch things up, try BBQ sauce, or a mix of Worcestershire sauce and mustard! You can also use a homemade tomato sauce for a fresher flavor.
