The Easiest Mini Meatloaf Recipe

This mini meatloaf recipe is an easy and delicious way to enjoy classic meatloaf perfectly portioned into individual loaves with a homemade sauce that’s sweet and tangy. Great for busy weeknights, these mini meatloaves cook quickly and are packed with flavor!

 

Easy Mini Meatloaf Recipe

• Easy to Make. These easy mini meatloaves come together in just minutes using mostly pantry ingredients and a pound of ground beef! The best part is you can prep them ahead of time as well.
• Filled with Flavor. These mini meatloaves are made with simple ingredients, but thanks to a few spices, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and mustard, they’re filled with lots of bold flavors.

Ingredients for Mini Meatloaf Recipe

• Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatloaf and keep it moist. You can use Italian breadcrumbs or plain.
• Whole Milk: Softens the breadcrumbs for a tender texture. You could also use half and half.
• Ground Beef: The base of the meatloaf, providing rich flavor. I like to use 80/20 or 85/15 for the best flavor.
• Egg: Helps hold the meatloaf together. You can omit if you don’t have any on hand but they are an easy binder.
• Ketchup: Adds moisture and a touch of sweetness. Try using chili sauce instead for a fun kick of flavor.
• Dijon Mustard: Brings a tangy depth to the flavor. You can use yellow mustard as well.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Enhances the umami richness. Substitute with soy sauce if you don’t have any.
• Dried Minced Onion: Adds a mild onion flavor without excess moisture. I prefer dried minced onion but you could use fresh onion instead.
• Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder are the perfect trifecta to easily add tons of flavor.
• Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the topping. You can use light or dark brown sugar.

How to Make Mini Meatloaf Recipe

Prepare the breadcrumb mixture: In a large bowl, mix breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for a minute to absorb.

Mix the meatloaf: Add ground beef, egg, ketchup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, dried minced onion, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and black pepper to the bowl.

Use your hands to gently mix until combined.

Form mini loaves: Divide the meat mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into small loaves. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake: Cook for 20 minutes.

Make the topping: While the meatloaf bakes, mix ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl.

Glaze and finish baking: Brush the topping over the meatloaves and bake for another 10-15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees.

Serve: Let the meatloaves rest for a minute, then serve with roasted vegetables and creamy mashed potatoes. Enjoy!

Tips for Making Mini Meatloaf Recipe

• Don’t Overmix: Mix the ingredients just until combined for a tender meatloaf.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the meatloaf reaches 160 degrees for perfectly cooked, juicy meat.
• Try a Different Protein: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or a mix of beef and pork for added flavor.

Make-Ahead Instructions

• Prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape the loaves up to 24 hours in advance.
• Cover and refrigerate, then bake as directed.
• Plan to add a few extra minutes of baking time to account for the colder temperature.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover mini meatloaves in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Mini Meatloaf Recipe

• Freeze Uncooked: Wrap each mini meatloaf individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Freeze Cooked: Let cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Reheating Mini Meatloaf Recipe

• Reheat in a 350 degree oven for 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

• simple house salad
• easy garlic bread
• twice-baked cheesy broccoli potatoes
• herb roasted potatoes
• garlic mashed potatoes

Try these easy family dinner recipes next!

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