Mini Meatloaves
Mini Meatloaves are the perfect little bundles of comfort food, packed with ground meat, breadcrumbs, and a touch of seasoning. These tiny loaves have all the classic flavors of a…
By Ava
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Reading time: 5 min
Tip: save now, make later.
Mini Meatloaves are the perfect little bundles of comfort food, packed with ground meat, breadcrumbs, and a touch of seasoning. These tiny loaves have all the classic flavors of a traditional meatloaf but in a manageable, individual size. They’re great for satisfying that hearty craving without too much fuss.
I love making Mini Meatloaves because they cook faster than a big loaf and are easy to customize with your favorite add-ins like cheese or herbs. Plus, they’re fun to serve because everyone gets their own personal portion, which always feels a little special at the dinner table.
Whenever I make these, I like to top them with a simple ketchup glaze that gets nice and sticky in the oven. They go great with mashed potatoes or a simple salad, making a meal that’s both filling and approachable. Mini Meatloaves are definitely one of those dishes that bring a little warmth and comfort to any night of the week.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground meat: Beef is classic, but blending beef with pork adds juiciness and flavor. For a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken – just be careful not to dry them out.
Breadcrumbs: They help keep meatloaves tender. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers. You can also swap milk for a dairy-free milk if needed.
Onion and garlic: These add essential flavor. Finely chopping or grating the onion helps it mix well. If fresh garlic isn’t available, garlic powder can work too.
Glaze (ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar): This sticky topping adds sweetness and tang. Feel free to use BBQ sauce or tomato sauce instead, or adjust sugar to taste.
How Do You Keep Mini Meatloaves Moist and Tender?
Overmixing meat can make meatloaf tough. Mix ingredients gently until just combined. Soaking breadcrumbs in milk adds moisture, preventing dryness.
- Use a fork or your hands to combine ingredients with soft motions.
- Shape meatloaves firmly but don’t compact too much — a light touch keeps them tender.
- Cover the tops well with glaze to lock in juices and enhance flavor during baking.
- Bake at a steady temperature and use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
These tips help ensure your mini meatloaves stay juicy and delicious every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet or muffin tin – perfect for shaping and baking the mini meatloaves evenly.
- Mixing bowl – roomy enough to combine all your ingredients without spilling.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your seasonings and liquids just right.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – helps mix ingredients gently without overworking the meat.
- Meat thermometer – handy to check doneness without cutting into the loaves.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist that still tastes great.
- Mix in shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for gooey, melty bites inside.
- Add finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies and texture.
- Boost flavor with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning for a fresh, herby note.
How to Make Mini Meatloaves?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 2 tbsp fresh chives or green onions, chopped
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For the Topping (Glaze):
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. Overall, plan for around 40 minutes, including some cooling time before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Breadcrumbs:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a muffin tin. In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for 5 minutes until they soften.
2. Mix the Mini Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, soaked breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, parsley, chives, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix everything gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix so your mini meatloaves remain tender.
3. Shape and Glaze the Mini Loaves:
Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions. Shape each into a small oval or round loaf and place on your baking sheet or muffin tin. In another bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar to make the glaze. Spoon this glaze generously over each mini meatloaf.
4. Bake and Serve:
Bake the mini meatloaves for 25-30 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F or 71°C). Let them rest a few minutes after baking, then sprinkle with extra parsley. Serve warm with sides like mashed potatoes or roasted veggies. Enjoy your tasty, juicy mini meatloaves!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Meat for Mini Meatloaves?
Yes, but be sure to thaw the meat completely before mixing. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. This helps ensure even cooking and proper texture.
Can I Make Mini Meatloaves Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture and shape the loaves a day in advance. Keep them covered in the fridge and add the glaze right before baking for the best results.
How Should I Store Leftover Mini Meatloaves?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Can I Customize the Glaze or Flavorings?
Definitely! Feel free to swap the ketchup glaze for BBQ sauce or add herbs and spices like thyme or oregano to the meat mixture to make it your own.