Muffin Tin Meatloaf – Bite-Sized, Savory Meatloaves Perfect for a Quick and Easy Dinner

If you’re looking for a fun twist on the traditional meatloaf, this Muffin Tin Meatloaf recipe is perfect! These individual mini meatloaves are easy to prepare, cook faster than a traditional loaf, and make for perfectly portioned servings. Topped with a sweet ketchup glaze, these little bites of comfort food are ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even family gatherings. Each tender meatloaf is packed with flavor and cooks to perfection in a muffin tin!

Scroll down for the recipe!

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Why You’ll Love Muffin Tin Meatloaf

Muffin Tin Meatloaf is a great way to serve up comfort food in a fraction of the time. Using a muffin tin cuts down on the cooking time while ensuring each mini meatloaf is moist and flavorful. The savory beef mixture is mixed with classic ingredients like oats, onion, and green pepper, while a sweet and tangy ketchup glaze adds that perfect finishing touch. Plus, these mini loaves are easy to freeze and reheat, making them a great option for meal prep!

The Inspiration Behind Muffin Tin Meatloaf

This recipe is inspired by classic meatloaf but adapted for convenience and speed. By using a muffin tin, you get individual servings that cook faster and are easier to serve. The use of oats and a simple ketchup glaze keeps the recipe traditional while adding just enough texture and flavor to make each bite delicious.

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Tips for Perfect Muffin Tin Meatloaf

1. Don’t Overmix the Meat: When combining the ingredients, mix gently to avoid compacting the meat, which can make the loaves tough. Handle the mixture just enough to combine.
2. Customize Your Toppings: While ketchup is a classic choice, you can switch things up by topping the meatloaves with BBQ sauce, cheese, or even a tangy mustard glaze for a different flavor profile.
3. Meal Prep-Friendly: These mini meatloaves freeze well! After baking, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, just pop them in the microwave or oven.

Nutritional Information (Per Mini Meatloaf, Based on 18 Meatloaves):

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Protein: 15g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fiber: 1g

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Serving Suggestions

Serve these muffin tin meatloaves with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a classic comfort meal. You can also pair them with roasted sweet potatoes or a simple salad for a lighter option. These mini meatloaves are also perfect for meal prepping lunches throughout the week.

Storage and Freezing Tips

• Storage: Store leftover meatloaves in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• Freezing: These meatloaves freeze exceptionally well. After baking, allow them to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm them up in the microwave or oven.

Fun Fact: The Origins of Meatloaf

Meatloaf dates back centuries and was originally a way to stretch meat by combining it with fillers like breadcrumbs or oats. While the classic American meatloaf we know today became popular in the 20th century, it has European roots in similar dishes like the German Hackbraten. This muffin tin version is a modern take on the classic dish!

Muffin Tin Meatloaf Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1½ cups ketchup, divided
• 1 yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 green pepper, finely diced
• 1½ teaspoons salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the meat mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, oats, beaten egg, 1 cup of ketchup, diced onion, diced green pepper, and salt. Mix gently with your hands until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
3. Portion the meatloaves: Divide the meat mixture evenly among a muffin tin, packing each well with the meat mixture. This recipe should make about 18–20 mini meatloaves, depending on the size of your muffin tin.
4. Bake the meatloaves: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.
5. Add the ketchup topping: After 25 minutes, remove the muffin tin from the oven. Divide the remaining ½ cup of ketchup among the meatloaves, spreading it evenly on top of each one.
6. Finish baking: Return the muffin tin to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the ketchup is set and the meatloaves are cooked through.
7. Serve: Remove the meatloaves from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes. Use a butter knife to gently loosen the meatloaves from the muffin tin. Serve hot and enjoy!

These Muffin Tin Meatloaves are the perfect solution for a quick, comforting meal. With classic flavors, easy preparation, and perfectly portioned servings, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Plus, they’re ideal for freezing and reheating, so you can have a hearty meal ready whenever you need it. Pair them with your favorite sides for a complete dinner everyone will love.

Happy cooking!