Meatloaf Muffins
Meatloaf muffins are the perfect blend of comfort food and convenience, providing all the flavors of traditional meatloaf in a fun, individual serving. These savory little bites are great for a family dinner or meal prep for the week. With their tender texture and zesty flavor, they are bound to become a favorite in your household. Imagine sinking your teeth into these delightful muffins with the tangy sweetness of ketchup glazed on top, making every bite a little piece of heaven. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will surely impress your family and friends!
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
Meatloaf muffins are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They can be customized with your favorite vegetables, cheeses, or spices, ensuring that you can adapt them to fit your taste preferences. The use of muffin tins makes portion control easy, and they also bake faster than a traditional meatloaf. Plus, they freeze well, making them a fantastic option for busy weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is both economical and satisfying, making it a true keeper for any home cook.
What’s in the Bowl
To create these mouthwatering meatloaf muffins, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 or similar) – The fat content keeps the muffins moist and flavorful.
- 1 cup finely chopped onion – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – For that aromatic kick.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs – Acts as a binder for the mixture.
- 1 cup ketchup, divided – Provides moisture and a sweet-tangy glaze.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Enhances the savory flavors.
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten – Binds the ingredients together.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Adds a hint of herbaceous flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt – For seasoning.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – To taste.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the onion and garlic.
Gear Checklist
Before you start cooking, gather the following equipment:
- Muffin tin – A standard 12-cup muffin tin works perfectly.
- Mixing bowl – For combining all the ingredients.
- Skillet – To sauté the onion and garlic.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Spatula – To mix the ingredients well.
Meatloaf Muffins: From Prep to Plate
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your meatloaf muffins.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare your muffin tin by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or a thin layer of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a skillet over medium heat, add the tablespoon of olive oil. Once heated, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed onion and garlic, breadcrumbs, ¾ cup of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, beaten egg, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together with your hands or a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough muffins.
Step 4: Portion the Mixture
Scoop the meat mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full. Use a spoon or your hands to pack it down gently.
Step 5: Glaze with Ketchup
Top each meatloaf muffin with a generous spoonful of the remaining ketchup. This will create a delicious, sticky glaze as they bake.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. The muffins should be browned on top and firm to the touch.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the muffins to cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them. Serve warm, and enjoy the delightful flavors of your homemade meatloaf muffins!
Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives
If you’re looking to reduce carbs or follow a keto diet, consider these ingredient swaps:
- Ground beef – Choose grass-fed beef for added health benefits.
- Breadcrumbs – Substitute with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
- Ketchup – Use sugar-free ketchup to cut down on sugar.
- Egg – No substitutions needed, as eggs are keto-friendly.
What Not to Do
To ensure your meatloaf muffins turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:
- Do not overmix the meat mixture, as this can result in a dense texture.
- Avoid using lean ground beef, as it may dry out during baking.
- Do not skip the step of sautéing the onion and garlic; raw onion can be overpowering and may not cook through.
- Don’t overfill the muffin cups; they should be about ¾ full to allow for rising.
Save It for Later
Meatloaf muffins are fantastic for meal prep and can be stored easily:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Allow the muffins to cool completely, then freeze in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave for a minute or two, or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Questions People Ask
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Just be mindful that they may require a bit more seasoning due to their milder flavor.
How can I add vegetables to the recipe?
You can mix in finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to sauté them first to ensure they cook evenly.
Can I make these meatloaf muffins ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meat mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready, simply fill the muffin tins and bake as usual.
What can I serve with meatloaf muffins?
These muffins pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, a fresh garden salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
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Bring It Home
Now that you have the perfect recipe for meatloaf muffins, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! This dish is sure to delight your taste buds while providing a comforting and hearty meal. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or just a cozy night in, these meatloaf muffins are sure to impress. Enjoy the process, share with loved ones, and savor each bite of your delicious creation. Happy cooking!
Meatloaf Muffins
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat and Prepare - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease the muffin tin with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics - Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion for 3-4 minutes, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Remove from heat.
- Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients - In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, sautéed onion and garlic, breadcrumbs, ¾ cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Step 4: Portion the Mixture - Scoop the meat mixture into the muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full.
- Step 5: Glaze with Ketchup - Top each muffin with a spoonful of the remaining ketchup.
- Step 6: Bake to Perfection - Bake for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Step 7: Cool and Serve - Let the muffins cool slightly before removing them. Serve warm.
Notes
- These muffins freeze well; store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- For a low-carb version, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the meat mixture!
