If you’re craving something nostalgic yet fresh, this Meatloaf Muffins Recipe is a total game changer. Imagine beloved classic meatloaf flavors transformed into perfectly portioned, individual muffins packed with juicy ground beef, savory spices, and a tangy glaze that turns every bite into a comforting celebration. These meatloaf muffins bake up quickly, making them perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even lunchboxes. Trust me, once you try this easy and delicious recipe, you’ll wonder why meatloaf hasn’t been muffin-shaped all along!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, everyday pantry staples, but combined they deliver bold flavor, great texture, and a bit of color that makes this Meatloaf Muffins Recipe stand out. Every component plays a key role, whether it’s adding moisture, seasoning, or that irresistible cheesy touch.
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey): The hearty base that gives the muffins their rich, meaty goodness.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free): Helps bind everything together while keeping the texture just right.
- 1/4 cup milk: Adds moisture so the muffins remain tender and juicy.
- 1 egg: The essential binder that holds the mixture in perfect muffin shape.
- 1/4 cup ketchup: Brings tanginess and a hint of sweetness to the meat mixture.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth and a savory umami punch to the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the muffins with a warm, aromatic kick.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the savory flavors throughout.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle heat to balance the sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Brightens the flavor with a hint of earthiness.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Melts into pockets of cheesy goodness inside each muffin.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion: Adds bursts of crunch and fresh flavor.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper: Offers color and a mild sweetness that lifts the dish.
- 1/4 cup ketchup (for glaze): Provides a glossy, flavorful finish.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (for glaze): Adds caramel notes and balances acidity.
- 1 teaspoon mustard (for glaze): Gives a zingy lift that complements the glaze perfectly.
How to Make Meatloaf Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Muffin Tin
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin or line the cups with muffin liners. This will prevent sticking and make clean-up a breeze. Setting the stage properly ensures your Meatloaf Muffins Recipe comes out perfectly shaped and easy to enjoy.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Batter
Combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, oregano, cheese (if using), onion, and bell pepper in a large bowl. Gently mix everything just until combined. The secret here is not to overmix; this keeps your muffins tender instead of dense.
Step 3: Portion Into Muffin Tin
Spoon the mixture evenly into the muffin cups—about six muffins worth. Press down slightly with the back of a spoon to form small domes, which will bake into nicely shaped individual meatloaf portions. This step is where the classic meatloaf takes a fun, bite-sized twist.
Step 4: Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. This glaze is the finishing touch that gives each muffin a glossy, sweet-savory coat, keeping them moist and adding a burst of flavor with every bite.
Step 5: Glaze and Bake
Brush or spoon the glaze evenly over the top of each meatloaf muffin. Pop the tin into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). That golden glaze caramelizes slightly during baking, locking in juices and boosting those classic meatloaf flavors.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow your meatloaf muffins to cool for a few minutes once out of the oven. This resting period ensures they firm up a bit, making them easier to remove from the tin without breaking. Serve warm and watch everyone delight in these cozy, individual-sized meatloaf treats.
How to Serve Meatloaf Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a burst of color and a fresh herbal note that brightens the rich meat flavors beautifully. You can also add a dollop of extra ketchup or a spoonful of tangy barbecue sauce on top to amp up the indulgence.
Side Dishes
Meatloaf muffins pair wonderfully with classic mashed potatoes or creamy mac and cheese for that ultimate comfort food experience. For a lighter touch, serve alongside a crisp garden salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed green beans to balance the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving a crowd or packing lunches, place a meatloaf muffin in a small container with a compartment for dipping sauce like ranch or honey mustard. They also work great sliced into mini sandwiches on slider buns with lettuce and tomato for a fun twist that kids and adults will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover meatloaf muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep fresh and delicious for up to four days, making it easy to enjoy this recipe throughout the week.
Freezing
Meatloaf muffins freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They keep well for up to three months, perfect for quick meals or unexpected guests.
Reheating
To reheat, simply microwave a meatloaf muffin for 60-90 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This reheating method ensures they stay moist and flavorful without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner option and works perfectly in this Meatloaf Muffins Recipe. Just keep an eye on cooking times as turkey can dry out faster, so don’t overbake.
What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?
If you need a gluten-free version, almond flour works just as well as breadcrumbs. You can also use crushed crackers or oats, depending on what you have on hand.
Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Yes! The Meatloaf Muffins Recipe is great for meal prep. Make them a day or two in advance and store them in the refrigerator, then reheat when ready to enjoy.
Is it possible to add vegetables to the meatloaf muffins?
Definitely. Finely chopped onions and bell peppers are included in this recipe for flavor and texture, but you can also add grated carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms to sneak in extra veggies.
What should I do if my glaze is too runny or too thick?
If the glaze runs too much, add a pinch more brown sugar to thicken it. If it’s too thick, stir in a little water or extra ketchup until it’s easy to spread but not watery.
Final Thoughts
This Meatloaf Muffins Recipe is a heartfelt twist on a classic that makes dinner exciting and manageable. Whether you’re cooking for family, prepping for busy weekdays, or looking for creative lunch ideas, these muffins bring comfort and flavor like no other. I can’t wait for you to try them and add this cozy favorite to your meal rotation!
Print
Meatloaf Muffins Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Meatloaf Muffins are a quick and convenient twist on classic meatloaf, perfect for individual servings. Made with ground beef or turkey and packed with flavorful seasonings, vegetables, and a sweet and tangy ketchup glaze, they bake quickly and are great for a family meal or meal prep.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper
Glaze
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin or line it with muffin liners to prevent sticking.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, shredded cheddar cheese (if using), finely chopped onion, and bell pepper. Mix everything gently until just combined to keep the meatloaf muffins tender.
- Portion into muffin tin: Divide the meat mixture evenly among the muffin cups, pressing down slightly to form small domes. This helps them cook evenly and get a nice shape.
- Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth and well combined. This glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish to the muffins.
- Glaze the muffins: Spoon or brush the glaze over each meatloaf muffin generously to create a flavorful topping that caramelizes during baking.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf muffins reaches 160°F (71°C), ensuring they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Cool & Serve: Let the meatloaf muffins cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the tin. Serve them warm alongside your favorite sides for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for beef to reduce fat.
- Using almond flour instead of breadcrumbs makes this recipe gluten-free.
- The cheddar cheese is optional but adds a nice melty texture and flavor.
- Make sure not to overmix the meat mixture to keep muffins tender.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure they are fully cooked.
- These muffins can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
