Hey there! Today, I have a delicious recipe to share with you that I absolutely love: Mini Meatloaf in a Muffin Tin. Not only are these mini meatloaves incredibly tasty, but they are also super convenient to make. So, let’s get started with this easy step-by-step guide!
Tips for the Perfect Muffin Tin Meatloaf
Choose the Right Meat: For a juicier meatloaf, use ground meat with a bit of fat. Lean meats like turkey are healthier but can be drier. A mix of beef and pork can also add depth to the flavor.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough meatloaf.
Add Moisture: Ingredients like milk and eggs are crucial as they add moisture and bind the mixture. For a richer taste, some cooks like to add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or even barbecue sauce.
Season Well: Don’t skimp on the seasonings. Salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or parsley can elevate the flavor. Minced garlic or garlic powder also works well.
Test for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf has reached a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Rest Before Serving: Let the meatloaves rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf moist.
Get Creative with Toppings: Traditional ketchup is great, but feel free to experiment with barbecue sauce, a glaze of brown sugar and mustard, or even a sprinkle of cheese in the last few minutes of baking.
Ingredients Needed for This Recipe
2 lbs ground beef or turkey
1 egg
1 onion, minced
1 cup milk
1 cup dried bread crumbs (or Parmesan cheese for a Keto option)
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1/3 cup ketchup
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
Instructions for Making This Mini Meatloaf in a Muffin Tin
Preparation: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake.
Muffin Tin Prep: Spray a non-stick muffin pan with cooking spray. This step is crucial for ensuring that your mini meatloaves can be easily removed after baking.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, egg, minced onion, milk, bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Fill the Muffin Tin: Spoon the meat mixture into the muffin cups, filling them to the top. This will give you a nice dome shape for your mini meatloaves.
Add Ketchup Topping: Spread ketchup over the top of each meatloaf. This adds a touch of sweetness and a tangy flavor that complements the meat perfectly.
Bake: Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 35 minutes. The meatloaves should be cooked through and slightly browned on top.
Serving: Let the meatloaves cool for a few minutes before serving. They can be served with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.