Making Meatloaf in a Muffin Pan is a fun and convenient twist on traditional meatloaf. These mini meatloaves cook faster and are perfect for portion control. They’re versatile, allowing you to add veggies and seasonings of your choice, making them both nutritious and delicious. These individual servings are great for meal prep, kids, or a quick dinner.
Ingredients for Meatloaf in Muffin Pan
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (for added flavor and texture)
- 1/3 cup oatmeal (or breadcrumbs)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 can tomato sauce (divided: half for the meatloaf mixture and half for topping)
- 1 egg (for binding)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Veggies, finely chopped (such as zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, carrots, onions, or lentils)
Instructions for Meatloaf in Muffin Pan
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin pan with non-stick spray or lightly coat it with oil.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey, Parmesan cheese, oatmeal or breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, egg, half the can of tomato sauce, garlic powder, and your chosen veggies.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Portion the Meatloaf into the Muffin Pan
- Divide the meat mixture evenly into the prepared muffin pan, pressing each portion down lightly to ensure they hold their shape. Each cup should be about three-quarters full.
4. Top with Tomato Sauce
- Spoon the remaining tomato sauce over the tops of each mini meatloaf, spreading it evenly for a flavorful glaze.
5. Bake the Meatloaf Muffins
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatloaf muffins are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for ground beef or 165°F (74°C) for ground turkey.
6. Cool and Serve
- Once baked, let the meatloaf muffins cool for a few minutes before removing them from the pan. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, salad, or your favorite sides.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Vegetable Options: Finely chop your veggies to ensure they cook evenly and blend well with the meat. Zucchini, spinach, mushrooms, and carrots work particularly well.
- Lean Meats: If using very lean ground meat, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or an extra egg to help keep the meatloaf moist.
- Make Ahead: These meatloaf muffins can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
Variations for Meatloaf in Muffin Pan
1. BBQ Meatloaf Muffins
- Replace the tomato sauce with BBQ sauce for a tangy twist. You can also add a little BBQ sauce to the meat mixture for extra flavor.
2. Cheesy Meatloaf Muffins
- Add a cube of cheddar cheese or mozzarella to the center of each meatloaf muffin before baking for a cheesy surprise in the middle.
3. Italian Meatloaf Muffins
- Add Italian seasoning and chopped basil to the meat mixture. Serve with marinara sauce instead of tomato sauce for an Italian-inspired dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! You can use ground chicken, ground pork, or a combination of ground meats for different flavor profiles.
2. How do I prevent the meatloaf muffins from drying out?
Adding moist veggies, like zucchini or mushrooms, can help retain moisture in the meatloaf. You can also add an extra tablespoon of tomato sauce or milk to the mixture for added moisture.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
A Fun and Delicious Twist on Meatloaf
These Meatloaf in Muffin Pan servings are the perfect way to enjoy a classic comfort food in a quick and convenient format. The addition of veggies and optional toppings allows you to customize the recipe to your family’s tastes. Whether you serve them for a casual weeknight dinner or as part of meal prep, these mini meatloaves are sure to be a hit with everyone!
