Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings (12 mini meatloaf muffins)
If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty dish with a fun twist, these Mini Meatloaf Muffins with Mashed Potato Topping are the perfect solution. Combining a flavorful meatloaf base with creamy mashed potatoes, these individual servings are easy to prepare, delicious, and visually stunning. They’re ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping.
Why You’ll Love Mini Meatloaf Muffins
These bite-sized meatloaf muffins are a fresh take on a classic dish. Here’s why they’ll quickly become a favorite:
- Perfectly Portioned: Individual servings make them easy to serve and great for portion control.
- Family-Friendly: The fun presentation is a hit with both kids and adults.
- Easy to Make: Straightforward steps and simple ingredients make this recipe a breeze.
- Customizable: Add your favorite spices, veggies, or cheese to suit your taste.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them in advance for an easy meal later in the week.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe combines the rich, savory flavors of classic meatloaf with the creamy, buttery goodness of mashed potatoes, all in a single serving. Baking the meatloaf in a muffin tin ensures faster cooking and a crispy exterior, while the mashed potato topping adds a light, fluffy contrast. Broiling the potatoes creates a golden-brown finish that’s as delicious as it is beautiful.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf Base:
- 1 lb ground beef: The foundation of a juicy and flavorful meatloaf.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds moisture and a hint of sweetness.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatloaf and keep it tender.
- 1/4 cup milk: Keeps the meat mixture moist.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder for the ingredients.
- 1/4 cup ketchup: Adds tangy sweetness to the mix.
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce: Infuses the meatloaf with a savory depth.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/2 tsp salt & 1/2 tsp black pepper: Essential seasonings to balance the flavors.
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed: The star of the creamy topping.
- 1/4 cup milk: Creates a smooth, creamy texture.
- 2 tbsp butter: Adds richness to the potatoes.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Balances the flavor.
- Chopped chives (for garnish): Adds a fresh, colorful finish.
How to Make Mini Meatloaf Muffins with Mashed Potato Topping
Follow these simple steps to create a comforting, delicious dish that’s sure to impress:
1. Prepare the Meatloaf Base
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated but avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
2. Fill the Muffin Tins
Divide the meat mixture evenly among the muffin cups, pressing down lightly to ensure they hold their shape.
3. Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatloaf muffins are cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
4. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
While the meatloaf is baking, boil the cubed potatoes in salted water for about 15 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and mash them with milk, butter, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
5. Top the Meatloaf Muffins
Once the meatloaf muffins are done, top each one with a generous swirl of mashed potatoes. Use a piping bag for an elegant finish or simply spoon the potatoes on for a rustic look.
6. Broil and Garnish
Place the topped muffins under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the mashed potatoes are lightly browned. Garnish with chopped chives and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Mini Meatloaf Muffins
- Don’t Overmix the Meatloaf: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to avoid a dense texture.
- Use Fresh Potatoes: Freshly mashed potatoes provide the creamiest topping.
- Customize the Flavor: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or dried herbs to the meatloaf mixture for extra flavor.
- Cheesy Topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes before broiling for a cheesy crust.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf muffins are fully cooked but not overdone.
Serving Suggestions
These mini meatloaf muffins are a complete meal in themselves but pair beautifully with simple sides for an even more satisfying dish:
- Steamed Green Beans: A fresh, healthy side that balances the rich flavors.
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts add color and nutrition.
- Crisp Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
- Dinner Rolls: Serve with warm rolls to round out the meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork work well as substitutes, though the cooking time may vary slightly.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze these muffins?
A: Absolutely! Allow the muffins to cool completely, then freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the meatloaf base and mashed potatoes separately, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.
Q: Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
A: Finely chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, or mushrooms are great additions for added flavor and nutrition.
Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
A: While homemade mashed potatoes are recommended for the best flavor, instant mashed potatoes can be used as a time-saving alternative.
Final Thoughts
These Mini Meatloaf Muffins with Mashed Potato Topping are a fun and flavorful twist on a classic comfort food. Perfectly portioned and easy to customize, they’re ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep.
Serve them with your favorite sides, and enjoy a dish that’s as delicious as it is adorable. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or simply craving something cozy, these mini meatloaf muffins are sure to impress. Try them today and savor the perfect blend of savory meatloaf and creamy mashed potatoes!
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Mini Meatloaf Muffins with Mashed Potato Topping: A Perfectly Portion-Controlled Comfort Food
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings (12 mini meatloaf muffins)
Description
These mini meatloaf muffins topped with creamy mashed potatoes are a fun and delicious twist on a classic comfort food. Perfectly portioned, tender, and flavorful, they’re great for weeknight dinners or family gatherings!
Ingredients
**For the Meatloaf Base:**
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
**For the Mashed Potato Topping:**
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped chives, for garnish
Instructions
1. **Prepare the Meatloaf Base:** Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. **Fill the Muffin Tins:** Evenly divide the meat mixture among the muffin cups, pressing it down lightly to ensure a solid base for the mashed potato topping.
3. **Bake:** Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the meatloaf muffins are fully cooked through.
4. **Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:** While the meatloaf is baking, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash them with milk, butter, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5. **Pipe or Spoon the Potatoes:** Once the meatloaf muffins are done, top each one with a generous swirl of mashed potatoes using a piping bag or spoon.
6. **Broil and Garnish:** Place the topped muffins under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the mashed potatoes are lightly browned. Garnish with chopped chives.
Notes
**Tip:** Serve with steamed green beans or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
**Chef’s Note:** For an extra flavor boost, add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the mashed potatoes before broiling.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 25