The smell of meatloaf muffins wafting through the air is like a warm hug from your grandma, reminding you of cozy family dinners. These little gems pack all the hearty flavor of traditional meatloaf but in a fun, bite-sized form that even picky eaters can’t resist.
Imagine sinking your teeth into a fluffy muffin with a savory, tender center bursting with flavors. Meatloaf muffins are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner, a casual get-together, or simply when you want to indulge in some comfort food that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These meatloaf muffins are super easy to whip up, making weeknight cooking stress-free
- The flavor is rich and satisfying without being overwhelming
- Their adorable muffin shape makes them visually appealing and fun to serve
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to be customized with your favorite ingredients
I remember the first time I served meatloaf muffins at a family gathering. My cousin was skeptical at first but ended up devouring three in record time!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for the best texture and flavor—too fatty, and you end up with greasy muffins.
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Breadcrumbs: Use plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture together while adding subtle flavor.
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Eggs: Two large eggs will help set the muffins for that perfect slice every time.
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Onion: Finely chopped onion adds moisture and sweetness—sautéing it slightly enhances its flavor.
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Ketchup: A classic topping that provides tanginess; mix some into the meat for added moisture too!
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Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried herbs elevate the overall taste; feel free to get creative with spices!
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Cheese (optional): Adding shredded cheese gives these muffins an extra gooey surprise; who doesn’t love cheesy goodness?
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat and Prepare Your Muffin Tin: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin lightly or use paper liners for easy removal later.
Sauté Those Aromatics: In a pan over medium heat, sauté finely chopped onions until they turn translucent and release their sweet aroma—about 5 minutes should do.
Mix Ingredients Like a Pro: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, sautéed onions, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, and seasonings. Mix until everything is well incorporated but don’t overwork it!
Fill Those Muffin Tins With Love: Spoon the mixture evenly into each muffin cup. Fill them about three-quarters full for that perfect rise.
Add Your Topping of Choice!: Drizzle or smear some extra ketchup on top of each muffin—this not only looks great but also adds an extra layer of flavor as they bake.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Pop those beauties into the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). You want them golden brown on top!
Let Them Rest Before Enjoying: Once baked to perfection, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. This helps them firm up just enough for easier handling.
Now that you’re armed with this delightful recipe for meatloaf muffins, it’s time to grab your apron and get cooking! Not only do these little wonders offer incredible flavor and satisfaction but they also bring back fond memories of home-cooked meals that warm your heart.
You Must Know
- Meatloaf muffins are not just adorable; they cook faster than traditional meatloaf, giving you more time to enjoy them!
- The individual portions are perfect for meal prep and freezing
- Plus, they’re a hit with kids, making dinnertime a breeze
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, mix your ingredients in a bowl. Use a muffin tin to shape the mixture into perfect portions. Bake for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your meatloaf muffins by adding veggies like diced bell peppers or zucchini. Substitute ground turkey for beef for a lighter option, or try different spices for a unique twist that suits your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf muffins in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, simply pop them in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve juicy meatloaf muffins, avoid overmixing the meat; it can lead to dense results
- Use lean meats like ground turkey or chicken for a healthier option that still packs flavor
- Adding breadcrumbs helps bind everything together for that perfect texture
Sometimes I whip up meatloaf muffins when I need comfort food fast; they always remind me of family gatherings and happy faces around the dinner table.
FAQ
Can I freeze meatloaf muffins?
Yes, you can freeze cooked meatloaf muffins for up to three months in an airtight container.
How do I know when my meatloaf muffins are done?
Use a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
What can I serve with meatloaf muffins?
These tasty treats pair well with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Savory Meatloaf Muffins
Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of meatloaf muffins, a delightful twist on a classic family favorite. These bite-sized treats are packed with savory goodness, making them perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or meal prep. With a tender center and an appealing muffin shape, they’re not only delicious but also a fun way to serve comfort food that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 muffins 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-seasoned)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (optional)
- ½ cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin or line with paper liners.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, sautéed onions, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs until combined—do not overmix.
- Spoon the mixture into the muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full.
- Top each muffin with a drizzle of ketchup for added flavor.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) is reached.
- Allow to cool slightly before removing from the tin.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin approximately 95g
- Calories: 225
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
