Savory Mini Meatloaf Muffins With Mashed Potato Frosting Recipe

There's something so comforting about classic meatloaf, but when you turn it into perfectly portioned mini muffins topped with creamy mashed potatoes, it becomes a fun and irresistible meal. These Savory Mini Meatloaf Muffins are moist, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients, making them a family favorite.

this Recipe

I first made these when my kids were going through a "picky eating" phase. I wanted something nutritious that looked exciting on the plate. Little did I know that turning meatloaf into bite-sized muffins would make it an instant hit. Now, it's a go-to recipe for busy weeknights and even meal prep!

Why You'll Love This Savory Mini Meatloaf Muffins Recipe

Get ready to enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal in an adorable, easy-to-serve form. These mini meatloaf muffins have all the rich, savory flavors of a classic meatloaf but cook up in a fraction of the time.

First, they’re incredibly quick and easy to make. Since they’re baked in a muffin tin, they cook much faster than a traditional meatloaf, making them perfect for busy nights.

They're also perfect for portion control. Whether you're serving kids or just want a balanced meal, these mini muffins provide just the right serving size without the guesswork.

Plus, this recipe is freezer-friendly. Make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for a ready-to-go meal whenever you need something comforting in a pinch.

And let’s not forget the best part – the mashed potato frosting. It adds a creamy, buttery contrast to the savory meatloaf, making each bite absolutely delicious.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe is in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in making these mini meatloaf muffins moist and delicious.

Ground beef is the heart of the dish, providing rich, meaty flavor. I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the perfect balance of juiciness and structure. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey works well too.

Breadcrumbs help bind everything together, keeping the meatloaf from falling apart. Use plain breadcrumbs for a classic taste, or panko for an extra light texture.

Eggs are the key to holding everything together. They add moisture and structure to the meat mixture, ensuring the muffins stay intact while baking.

Ketchup and Worcestershire sauce create a tangy, slightly sweet glaze on top of each mini meatloaf. The combination enhances the deep umami flavors and adds a touch of caramelization.

Mashed potatoes take these meatloaf muffins to the next level. Creamy, buttery, and smooth, they act as the perfect topping and add a beautiful presentation when piped on top.

To make things even easier, you’ll need a muffin tin for perfectly portioned servings. A piping bag (or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped) helps create that picture-perfect mashed potato swirl.

How To Make This Savory Mini Meatloaf Muffins Recipe

Making these adorable mini meatloaves is surprisingly simple, and the process comes together in just a few easy steps.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lightly greasing a muffin tin. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal after baking.

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, finely chopped onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatloaf, so be careful!

Scoop the meat mixture into each muffin cup, filling them about three-quarters full. Smooth the tops slightly with the back of a spoon, then add a small dollop of ketchup on each one for extra flavor.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatloaf muffins are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 160°F. The tops should be slightly caramelized, and the edges crisped to perfection.

While the meatloaf muffins are baking, prepare the mashed potato frosting. Boil peeled and diced potatoes until fork-tender, then mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and fluffy.

Once the meatloaf muffins have slightly cooled, pipe or spoon the mashed potatoes on top. For an extra special touch, broil for 1-2 minutes to lightly brown the peaks of the potatoes.

Storage Options

These mini meatloaf muffins store beautifully, making them a great meal-prep option.

For refrigeration, place leftovers in an airtight container and store them for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

To freeze, let the muffins cool completely, then arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

When reheating, pop them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is highly adaptable, so feel free to make it your own.

For a leaner option, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Just be sure to add a bit more moisture (such as a splash of milk) to prevent dryness.

Want to make it gluten-free? Use almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers instead of breadcrumbs.

For a spicier twist, add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture. You can also mix in chopped jalapeños for extra heat.

Cheese lovers can add shredded cheddar or Parmesan to the mashed potatoes for a richer, more indulgent topping.

And if you're looking for extra veggies, mix finely grated carrots or zucchini into the meat mixture. It’s a great way to sneak in more nutrients without anyone noticing.

No matter how you customize them, these Savory Mini Meatloaf Muffins with Mashed Potato Frosting are a delightful twist on a classic dish. Give them a try, and they just might become a new favorite in your home!

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