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Easy Mini Meatloaf Muffins Recipe Perfectly Portioned for Dinner

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These easy mini meatloaf muffins are a quick, delicious, and perfectly portioned dinner option that cooks evenly with crispy edges and juicy centers. Ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
  • 1 cup (90 grams) breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk, room temperature
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/3 cup (80 ml) ketchup, divided
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or oil.
  2. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, and 1/3 cup ketchup.
  4. Add the breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried Italian herbs (if using) to the wet mixture and stir lightly.
  5. Add the ground beef to the bowl and mix gently with hands or a spatula until just combined; avoid overmixing.
  6. Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full, and press down gently to shape.
  7. In a small bowl, mix the remaining ketchup with honey to make the glaze and brush it generously over each muffin.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and edges are golden and caramelized.
  9. Let the muffins rest in the pan for 5 minutes before removing carefully with a spoon or fork.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep muffins tender. Use 80/20 ground beef for moisture and flavor. The honey-ketchup glaze caramelizes nicely for a sweet and tangy finish. If using leaner meats like turkey or chicken, add extra moisture and watch cooking time. For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs accordingly. Let muffins rest before removing to retain juiciness. Tent with foil if browning too fast.

Nutrition

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