Every family has that recipe—the one dish people can never get enough of, the one you try to save for special occasions, and the one that instantly disappears the moment it hits the table.
For us?
It’s these Mini Meatloaf Muffins.
My husband asks for them constantly, but I usually save them for holidays, parties, and big family dinners. They’re bite-sized, savory, perfectly portioned, and somehow even more addictive than a traditional meatloaf.
But last night, after weeks of hints, puppy-dog eyes, and “Hey, when are you making those again?”…
I finally caved.
I only made a half batch for dinner.
Big mistake.
Because now my husband has decided they need to be a weekly routine—maybe even daily if he had his way. 😂
Once you make them yourself, you’ll understand why.
⭐ Why Everyone Loves These Mini Meatloaf Muffins
- Perfectly sized for individual portions
- Cook faster than a full meatloaf
- Crispy edges + juicy center
- Kid-friendly, husband-obsessed, potluck-approved
- Great for meal prepping
- Easy to freeze and reheat
They’re simple, hearty, flavor-packed, and guaranteed to vanish in minutes.
🍽️ THE RECIPE: Mini Meatloaf Muffins
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed Ritz crackers for extra richness)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 small green pepper, finely diced
- 1–2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like heat
🧁 Instructions
1. Preheat the oven
Set to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix all ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the beef, vegetables, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, seasonings, ketchup, and Worcestershire.
Mix gently with your hands—don’t overwork it.
3. Grease a muffin tin
A standard 12-cup pan works perfectly.
4. Fill each cup
Scoop the meat mixture evenly into each well and press down lightly.
5. Top with ketchup
A little swirl or dollop gives that classic meatloaf flavor.
6. Bake
Cook for 25–30 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
Internal temp: 160°F.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes
They’ll firm up and release easier.
😍 Serving Ideas
These pair beautifully with:
- Mashed potatoes
- Roasted veggies
- Mac and cheese
- Green beans
- Cornbread
- A simple salad
Or — let’s be honest — they’re so good you’ll end up eating two before they even make it to the plate.
🔥 Make Them Even Better: Fun Variations
BBQ Cheddar
Add shredded cheddar + top with barbecue sauce.
Italian Style
Add parmesan, Italian seasoning, and top with marinara.
Fiesta Style
Add corn, black beans, taco seasoning + drizzle with salsa.
Bacon Lover’s
Stir in cooked bacon bits or put half a strip on top before baking.
❤️ Final Thoughts
These mini meatloaf muffins aren’t just a recipe—they’re a comfort-food tradition that keeps coming back by demand (especially from husbands who can’t get enough 😆).
Make a full batch.
You’ll thank yourself later.
And so will everyone at your table.
