Make delicious meatloaf in a muffin pan with this easy step-by-step recipe. Juicy, flavorful mini meatloaves topped with a tangy glaze—perfect for quick dinners or meal prep.
Meatloaf in a Muffin Pan
Meatloaf baked in a muffin pan is a clever twist on the traditional classic. These mini meatloaves cook more quickly, develop more flavorful edges, and are easy to portion for serving or storing. They’re ideal for busy weeknights, family meals, or even meal prepping for the week ahead.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 500g (1 lb) ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Glaze
- 3 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard
Directions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin pan or line it with silicone or paper liners to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Meat Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
Mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meat tender.
Step 3: Fill the Muffin Pan
Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups, pressing lightly to shape. Each cup should be filled almost to the top.
Step 4: Add the Glaze
In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard.
Spoon a small amount of glaze over each mini meatloaf, spreading it evenly.
Step 5: Bake
Place the muffin pan in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the meatloaves are fully cooked and the tops are slightly caramelized.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Allow the meatloaves to rest for 5 minutes before removing them from the pan. This helps them hold their shape and stay juicy.
Serving Suggestions
These mini meatloaves pair perfectly with:
- Mashed potatoes
- Steamed vegetables
- Rice or buttered noodles
They’re also great in lunchboxes or as leftovers for sandwiches.
Tips for Best Results
- Use ground beef with some fat (80/20) for better flavor and moisture.
- Add a small cube of cheese in the center of each muffin for a surprise filling.
- Place the muffin pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
Conclusion
Meatloaf in a muffin pan is a simple yet smart way to enjoy a classic dish with less cooking time and more convenience. With juicy texture, flavorful glaze, and perfect individual portions, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.