The Best Meatloaf Muffins Ever

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

  • 2 pounds (900 g) lean ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

For the Glaze

  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line with silicone baking cups.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, bell pepper, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and parsley.
  3. Mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
  4. Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full and gently pressing the mixture into place.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce to make the glaze.
  6. Spoon or brush the glaze over the top of each meatloaf muffin.
  7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  8. Let the meatloaf muffins rest for 5 minutes before carefully removing them from the pan.

Serving Suggestions

  • Creamy mashed potatoes
  • Roasted green beans or broccoli
  • Buttered corn
  • Macaroni and cheese
  • Dinner rolls
  • A fresh garden salad

Tips

  • Use an 85–90% lean ground beef for the best balance of flavor and moisture.
  • Finely dice the vegetables so they cook evenly.
  • For extra cheesy meatloaf muffins, place a small cube of cheddar or mozzarella in the center of each before baking.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze cooked meatloaf muffins for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or oven.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 12 meatloaf muffins

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