Mini Meatloaf Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of mini meatloaves baking in the oven. These perfectly portioned little loaves deliver all the rich, savory flavors of classic meatloaf in a fraction of the time, making them a go-to for busy weeknights.

this Recipe

I first discovered mini meatloaves when experimenting with ways to make traditional meatloaf more kid-friendly. The result? A dinner that’s now requested weekly! These individual servings are not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile, customizable to suit any taste. Let’s dive into why you’ll love them!

Why You'll Love This Mini Meatloaf Recipe

Get ready to meet your new dinner favorite! These mini meatloaves are proof that good things come in small packages.

First, they’re a time-saver. Unlike traditional meatloaf, which can take over an hour to bake, these mini versions are ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for when you need a quick meal on the table without sacrificing flavor.

Second, they’re great for portion control. Each loaf is perfectly sized, making it easy to serve up individual portions without the hassle of slicing. Plus, they’re perfect for meal prepping—just bake, portion, and store!

Kids love them, too. There’s something about having their own little meatloaf that makes dinner extra special. Add their favorite toppings, like ketchup or cheese, and watch them dig in with enthusiasm.

Finally, these mini meatloaves are incredibly versatile. From mixing in vegetables to swapping proteins, the recipe adapts effortlessly to your pantry and preferences.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this mini meatloaf recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each element adds to the rich, savory taste that makes this dish a family favorite.

Ground Beef: The base of the recipe is lean ground beef, providing just the right amount of fat for flavor without being greasy. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Breadcrumbs: These act as the binder, keeping the meatloaf moist and tender. Panko breadcrumbs work well if you prefer a lighter texture, or you can use crushed crackers in a pinch.

Eggs: Essential for binding everything together, eggs also add richness to the mixture.

Onion and Garlic: Finely chopped onion and minced garlic bring a depth of flavor to the meatloaf. If you’re short on time, onion powder and garlic powder can work as substitutes.

Ketchup and Worcestershire Sauce: This duo brings a tangy, savory kick to the mix. Plus, a little ketchup brushed on top creates that signature glaze that everyone loves.

You’ll also need a standard muffin tin for shaping and baking the mini meatloaves. This tool ensures uniform sizes and helps them cook evenly.

How To Make This Mini Meatloaf Recipe

Making mini meatloaves is as easy as mixing, shaping, and baking! Let me guide you through the simple steps to get this delicious dish on your table.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a muffin tin. This setup ensures that your mini meatloaves won’t stick and cook evenly.

In a large mixing bowl, combine your ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and your favorite seasonings. Use your hands or a large spoon to mix everything until just combined—overmixing can make the meatloaf dense.

Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin tin cups, pressing lightly to shape each one into a mini loaf. Leave a little room at the top of each cup to allow for any juices that might accumulate during baking.

Bake for about 20 minutes, then brush the tops with a layer of ketchup for a tangy glaze. Return them to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Once done, let the mini meatloaves rest in the muffin tin for a few minutes before carefully removing them. Serve hot with your favorite sides!

Storage Options

These mini meatloaves are a dream when it comes to storage and meal prep.

For the fridge, place cooled meatloaves in an airtight container and store for up to 4 days. They’re perfect for reheating in the microwave for a quick lunch or dinner.

To freeze, wrap each mini meatloaf individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

For leftover ideas, crumble a meatloaf into a salad or wrap it in a tortilla with fresh veggies for a delicious sandwich alternative.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about mini meatloaf is how adaptable the recipe is.

• Add vegetables: Finely grated carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers can be mixed into the meatloaf for added nutrition and moisture.
• Switch up the protein: Try ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of ground beef and pork for a different flavor profile.
• Try different glazes: Swap ketchup for BBQ sauce, marinara, or even a teriyaki glaze for a new twist.
• Go gluten-free: Use almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers in place of breadcrumbs.
• Spice it up: Add chili powder, cayenne pepper, or chopped jalapeños for a bit of heat.

Don’t be afraid to experiment! These mini meatloaves are incredibly forgiving and can be tailored to suit your family’s preferences.

With their irresistible flavor, ease of preparation, and endless customization options, these mini meatloaves are sure to become a regular feature in your dinner rotation. Give them a try tonight—you won’t be disappointed!

Print