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Mini Meatloaf Recipe

  • Writer: Grace Giggles
    Grace Giggles
  • May 29
  • 2 min read

Classic Comfort Food Made Weeknight Easy


There’s something special about meatloaf night. It’s one of those classic comfort foods that instantly makes the kitchen feel warm and welcoming. But sometimes waiting for a full-sized meatloaf to bake can feel like forever on a busy weeknight.


That’s why I love these Mini Meatloaves.


They bake faster, portion perfectly, and every bite gets that delicious sweet-and-savory glaze on top. Whether you’re feeding the family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving an old-fashioned comfort meal, these little meatloaves deliver big flavor without a lot of fuss.


Serve them with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple side salad, and dinner is ready in no time.



Ingredients


For the Mini Meatloaves


  • 1½ lbs lean ground beef or ground turkey

  • ⅔ cup panko bread crumbs (or regular bread crumbs)

  • ½ cup onion, chopped

  • 1 tbsp barbecue sauce

  • 1 tbsp mustard

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

  • 1½ tsp chili powder

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

  • 1 egg, lightly beaten


For the Meatloaf Sauce


  • ⅓ cup light brown sugar

  • ½ cup ketchup

  • 2 tsp Dijon mustard

  • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg



Instructions


  1. Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease a standard muffin tin.

  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, onion, barbecue sauce, mustard, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, pepper, and egg.

  3. Mix just until combined. Do not overmix.

  4. Divide mixture evenly among the muffin cups and gently shape into rounded tops.

  5. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and nutmeg.

  6. Spoon or brush the sauce generously over each mini meatloaf.

  7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the meat reaches an internal temperature of 160°F for beef or 165°F for turkey.

  8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.



Tips & Variations


  • Ground turkey works just as well if you’re looking for a lighter option.

  • Add shredded cheddar cheese to the meat mixture for extra flavor.

  • These freeze beautifully after baking.

  • Leftovers make great lunch meal prep for the next day.

  • For a little extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze.



What to Serve with Mini Meatloaf


These mini meatloaves pair perfectly with:


  • Creamy mashed potatoes

  • Roasted carrots

  • Green beans

  • Macaroni and cheese

  • Buttered corn

  • Dinner rolls



If you love classic comfort food but need something a little quicker for busy evenings, these Mini Meatloaves are a perfect solution. They’re tender, flavorful, family-friendly, and topped with a sweet, tangy glaze that makes everyone reach for seconds.


Simple ingredients, easy preparation, and plenty of comfort in every bite—that’s a weeknight dinner win in my book.

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