There’s something incredibly comforting about meatloaf, isn’t there? It evokes images of cozy family dinners, the smell of something savory wafting through the house, and the warmth of gathered loved ones around the table. Growing up, my mom made a big, classic meatloaf that was a staple of our weeknight dinners, but it was always a bit daunting. That’s where my Mini Meatloaf recipe comes into play—it’s the same beloved dish but in perfect, pint-sized portions! Easy to make and even easier to love, these little loaves are perfect for busy weeknights when comfort food is a must but you also want something cute and fun. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a dish that comes with its own portion control?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: It takes under an hour from prep to plate!
- Budget-Friendly: Made with simple ingredients that won’t break the bank.
- Comforting Flavors: Juicy meat paired with familiar spices and a sweet-tangy glaze—yum!
- Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for leftovers or lunchboxes throughout the week.
- Kid-Approved: The cute size makes it fun for little hands to eat!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful Mini Meatloafs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced green pepper
- 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping!)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 cloves of fresh garlic, minced, for a punch of flavor!)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive in!
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). A warm oven means a cozy kitchen and a perfect cooking environment.
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion and green pepper until they’re soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This step enhances their sweetness and gives your meatloaf that extra punch of flavor.
- Mix the Meat Loaf: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, sautéed veggies, ketchup, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough!
- Shape the Meatloaves: Divide the mixture into 8-10 portions (depending on how mini you want them). Shape each portion into a loaf shape and place them on a lined baking sheet. I like to use parchment paper for easy cleanup!
- Add the Topping: Generously brush each mini meatloaf with ketchup on top for that sweet and tangy glaze that makes them irresistible.
- Bake: Pop them in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Your kitchen is going to smell heavenly!
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. It’s hard to wait, but trust me—it helps the juices settle!
Pro Tips & Variations
Feel free to mix things up! Here are some ideas:
- Spice it Up: Add some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper for a kick!
- Cheesy Goodness: Tuck a cube of cheese in the center of each mini loaf for a melty surprise.
- Veggie Boost: Sneak in shredded carrots or zucchini to add moisture and nutrition.
- Different Meats: Try using ground chicken or pork for a different twist!
Serving Suggestions
These mini meatloaves are perfect paired with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery corn for that classic touch. For an extra burst of freshness, serve with a crisp salad drizzled with vinaigrette. You could even slide one into a toasted bun for a fun mini meatloaf sandwich, topped with some crunchy pickles and onions. The possibilities are endless, and each bite is sure to bring comfort and satisfaction!
Storage Tips
Got leftovers? Don’t worry! These little gems store beautifully. Here’s how to do it:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze them before baking—just shape them and place them on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. To bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Reheating: To reheat, place them in the microwave or in the oven. If using the oven, cover them with foil to prevent drying and heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I make mini meatloaf in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just shape the meatloaves and pop them in the oven!
How can I tell when they are done?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). If you don’t have one, you can slice one open—the center should be no longer pink.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use crushed gluten-free crackers, oats, or even cooked quinoa. They all add texture while keeping these mini meatloaves moist.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! Just keep in mind that you might need to increase the baking time slightly. Make a big batch now and enjoy delicious meatloaf for several meals to come!
Conclusion
And there you have it, my friend—delicious, adorable Mini Meatloaf that’s sure to fill your home with warmth and make your tastebuds happy! I’d love to hear how yours turn out, so please drop me a comment below! Feel free to share your own twists or favorite serving suggestions, too. Happy cooking!
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Irresistible Mini Meatloaf Recipe Quick Delicious Tech
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
Description
Discover a quick delicious mini meatloaf thats perfect for any meal Try this easy tech for a mouthwatering family favorite 150 chars
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
Mini Meatloaf is a comforting and easy recipe that provides perfect portion control. It’s quick to make, budget-friendly, and kid-approved, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8-10 servings
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
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