Craving some comforting meatloaf but don’t have the time to wait for it to bake? This ingenious recipe transforms the classic family favorite into delightful mini meatloaf muffins! Not only do these little gems cook in just 15 minutes, but they also offer the perfect portion control and are a fun twist on the traditional.
Whether you opt for lean ground turkey or stick with the richness of ground beef, these muffins are packed with flavor and have a sneaky veggie boost. Oatmeal or breadcrumbs give them the perfect texture, while Parmesan adds a cheesy depth. Customize them with your favorite veggies and top with a dollop of tangy ketchup or tomato sauce for the ultimate quick and satisfying meal!
Ingredients:
1 pound ground turkey or ground beef
1/3 cup breadcrumbs or oatmeal (for the best results, try oatmeal for a healthier twist)
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds a nice savory flavor)
1 large egg (binds the mixture together)
1 (8-ounce) can of tomato sauce or ketchup (use about 1/4 cup in the mixture and the rest for topping)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for a hint of garlic)
Salt and pepper to taste (for seasoning)
About 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (for a tangy depth)
A couple of handfuls of finely chopped vegetables (like onions, mushrooms, zucchini, broccoli, carrots, spinach, or even cooked lentils for extra nutrition)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, setting up the stage for these quick-cooking meaty treats.
In a large bowl, mix together the ground meat, breadcrumbs or oatmeal, Parmesan cheese, egg, about 1/4 cup of tomato sauce or ketchup (whichever you prefer), garlic powder, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and the assorted vegetables. Combine everything until just incorporated — don’t overmix to keep the muffins tender!
Grease a standard muffin pan or use liners for easy cleanup. Press the meat mixture into the muffin cups, evenly distributing it. You should be able to create eight to ten muffin-sized meatloaves.
Add a generous dollop of tomato sauce or ketchup on top of each meatloaf muffin for that classic glaze.
Pop them into the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the tops are slightly caramelized. Let the mini meatloaves cool for a couple of minutes before serving. Two muffins per person make for a satisfying portion.
Enjoy your mini meatloaf muffins with a side of mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a crisp salad for a balanced and delicious meal that comes together in no time!