Mini Meatloaf Muffins – A Perfect Weeknight Dinner

If you’re looking for a quick, wholesome, and family-approved meal that’s as cute as it is delicious, these Mini Meatloaf Muffins will win your heart. Each muffin-sized portion is loaded with savory flavor, bakes faster than a traditional meatloaf, and makes serving a breeze. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or meal prep for the week ahead, this recipe delivers comfort food made simple.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect Portions: Individual servings make plating and storing a breeze.
Quick Bake Time: Ready in under 30 minutes—half the time of a full loaf.
Family-Friendly: Great for kids and adults alike.
Customizable: Add veggies, cheese, or your favorite seasonings.

Ingredients & Their Roles

For the Meatloaf:

1 ½ lbs ground beef – The hearty, protein-packed base.
½ cup chopped onion – Adds sweetness and moisture.
½ cup chopped bell pepper – Brings color and a mild crunch.
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce – Deepens the umami flavor.
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley – Adds freshness and a pop of green.
1 tsp Dijon mustard – Balances richness with tang.
¼ cup BBQ sauce – Infuses a sweet, smoky kick.
⅔ cup bread crumbs – Helps bind and maintain texture.
1 tsp Italian seasoning – Adds a subtle herbal note.
1 tsp garlic powder – Enhances savory depth.
1 large egg – Binds the mixture together.
Salt and pepper – For balanced seasoning.

For the Glaze:

¼ cup BBQ sauce – Creates a glossy, flavorful topping.
1 tbsp ketchup – Adds sweetness and tang.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin.
Mix the Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine all meatloaf ingredients. Mix gently to avoid overworking the meat, which can make it dense.
Portion into Muffin Cups: Divide the mixture evenly among 10 muffin cups, pressing gently into each well.
Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and ketchup. Spoon or brush the glaze over each mini meatloaf.
Bake: Place in the oven for 25 minutes or until cooked through and nicely browned (internal temp: 160°F/71°C).
Rest & Serve: Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices.

Pro Tip: For a cheesy surprise, place a small cube of cheddar or mozzarella in the center of each muffin before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Mini Meatloaf Muffins with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. They also work perfectly as a party appetizer when served with toothpicks and extra glaze on the side.

Storage & Meal Prep

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat at 350°F until heated through.

Why This Recipe Works

By baking meatloaf in muffin tins, you get faster cooking times and evenly portioned servings that stay moist and flavorful. The glaze locks in juices and adds irresistible sweetness, while the seasoning blend creates a rich, well-balanced taste.

Final Thoughts

These Mini Meatloaf Muffins prove that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With a short ingredient list, minimal prep time, and maximum flavor, they’re the perfect weeknight hero. Whether you’re cooking for kids, meal prepping, or just craving classic flavors in a fun format, this recipe delivers every time. Try it tonight—you’ll see why it’s a keeper!