Looking for a comforting, easy-to-make meal that satisfies the entire family? Mini meatloaves are a delightful twist on the classic dish, offering quicker cooking times and perfect portions. Ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep, these individual meatloaves are both fun to make and eat.
Why You’ll Love Mini Meatloaves
- Portion Control: Individual servings make it easy to manage portions.
- Quick Cooking: Smaller sizes mean faster cooking times compared to traditional meatloaf.Tastes Better From Scratch+1melaniecooks.com+1
- Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for preparing ahead and storing for busy days.Recipes From Leftovers
- Customizable: Easily adapt ingredients to suit different tastes or dietary needs.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beefLa Cucina Italiana+3Simply Recipes+3Allrecipes+3
- ½ cup bread crumbsLa Cucina Italiana+1Recipes From Leftovers+1
- 1 eggbryont.net+3Allrecipes+3Kroll’s Korner+3
- ½ cup finely chopped oniontasteofhome.com
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup milkNoshing With the Nolands
- ¼ cup ketchupThe Toasty Kitchen+4food.com+4Simply Recipes+4
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, onion, garlic, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.The Toasty Kitchen
- Shape the Loaves: Divide the mixture evenly and shape into small loaves or use a muffin tin for uniformity.Recipes From Leftovers
- Bake: Place the mini meatloaves on a greased baking sheet or in the muffin tin. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Add Glaze (Optional): For added flavor, mix equal parts ketchup and brown sugar, and brush over the meatloaves during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Serve: Let the meatloaves rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overmix: Mixing the meat too much can lead to dense meatloaves.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
- Customize: Add chopped vegetables, different herbs, or cheeses to the mixture for variety.
- Make Ahead: Prepare and freeze uncooked mini meatloaves for a quick meal later.
Mini meatloaves are a versatile and satisfying meal option that can be tailored to suit any palate. Their individual sizes make them perfect for portion control, and their quick cooking time is ideal for busy weeknights. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a classic comfort food in a fun, new way.
