Mini Meatloaves are a convenient and flavorful twist on the classic comfort food favorite. Individually portioned and baked to perfection, these meatloaves are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. The combination of ground meat, aromatic vegetables, herbs, and a tangy glaze creates a dish that is both satisfying and visually appealing. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or family gatherings, mini meatloaves are versatile, easy to make, and loved by adults and children alike.
Unlike a traditional large meatloaf, the mini version cooks faster, ensuring a moist interior while achieving a slightly crisp exterior. The personal-sized portions also make serving and plating simpler, and they pair beautifully with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it simplifies classic meatloaf without compromising flavor or texture. The individual portions ensure even cooking and perfect tenderness every time. The glaze on top adds a slightly sweet and savory note that balances the richness of the meat. Preparing mini meatloaves allows me to customize each one if desired, such as adding cheese, herbs, or vegetables. They are also excellent for meal prep, making it easy to reheat for lunches or dinners during the week.
The aroma while baking is comforting and inviting, and the recipe produces a dish that is both homestyle and elegant enough for special occasions.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
Mini Meatloaves are a must-try because they take the classic meatloaf to a new level of convenience and flavor. The individual portions ensure perfectly cooked meat with a delicious glaze on each mini loaf. They are versatile, appealing to children and adults, and perfect for meal prep or entertaining. This recipe is a reliable way to enjoy the nostalgic comfort of meatloaf in a modern, convenient format.
Recipe Details
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: 50–55 minutes
Servings: 6 mini meatloaves
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American / Comfort Food
Calories: Approximately 280–320 calories per mini meatloaf
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- ¼ cup ketchup (for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (for glaze)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for glaze)
Cooking Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin or small baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix until evenly combined.
- Divide the mixture evenly into six portions and shape each into a mini loaf. Place in the prepared muffin tin or baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard to create the glaze. Brush a generous layer over each mini meatloaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the tops are slightly caramelized.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin or small baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare Meatloaf Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, diced onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning. Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Shape Mini Meatloaves
Divide the meat mixture into six equal portions. Shape each portion into a small loaf and place in the prepared muffin tin or baking dish.
Step 4: Prepare Glaze
In a small bowl, combine ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Mix well to form a smooth glaze.
Step 5: Glaze the Mini Meatloaves
Brush the glaze evenly over the tops of each mini meatloaf.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the tops are slightly caramelized.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Remove from the oven and let the mini meatloaves rest for 5 minutes. Serve warm with your choice of sides.
How to Serve
Serve mini meatloaves as a main course alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, steamed green beans, or a fresh salad. They are also excellent for meal prep, making portioned lunches or dinners easy to reheat.
Recipe Tips
Use a mixture of beef and pork for extra flavor and moisture.
Do not overmix the meat mixture to avoid a dense texture.
Let the mini meatloaves rest after baking to retain juices.
Use fresh breadcrumbs or panko for a lighter texture.
Adjust seasoning to taste, adding herbs or spices as desired.
Variations
Cheesy Mini Meatloaves: Add a cube of cheese in the center of each mini loaf.
Vegetable Mini Meatloaves: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
Spicy Mini Meatloaves: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the meat mixture.
BBQ Glazed Mini Meatloaves: Use barbecue sauce instead of the ketchup glaze for a smoky flavor.
Turkey Mini Meatloaves: Substitute ground turkey for a leaner alternative.
Freezing and Storage Time
Refrigerator: Store cooked mini meatloaves in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Freezing: Cool completely, wrap individually or in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or until warmed through.
Special Equipment Needed
Muffin tin or small baking dish
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Small bowl for glaze
Basting brush for glaze
Conclusion
Mini Meatloaves are a convenient, flavorful, and satisfying version of a classic comfort food. They are easy to prepare, cook evenly, and allow for individual portions that are perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or special occasions. With a savory meat mixture, flavorful glaze, and endless variations, these mini meatloaves are a must-try recipe for anyone looking for a comforting, delicious, and versatile main course.
Mini Meatloaves
Mini Meatloaves are a convenient and flavorful twist on the classic comfort food favorite. Individually portioned and baked to perfection, these meatloaves are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin or small baking dish.
-
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix until evenly combined.
-
Divide the mixture evenly into six portions and shape each into a mini loaf. Place in the prepared muffin tin or baking dish.
-
In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard to create the glaze. Brush a generous layer over each mini meatloaf.
-
Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the tops are slightly caramelized.
-
Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
