Muffin Pan Meatloaf is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food we all love. It’s a simple and tasty dish that makes weeknight dinners a breeze. This recipe offers great flavor and is perfect for busy individuals or families looking to save time without sacrificing taste. The best part? You can easily customize these meatloaf muffins with your favorite flavors.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 12 muffins
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 180
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 350mg
Why Make Muffin Pan Meatloaf
Muffin Pan Meatloaf offers a blend of convenience and nutrition. Dividing the meatloaf into individual muffins means faster cooking times and perfect portion control. You can make these meatloafs loaded with healthy ingredients like vegetables or use lean meat for a lighter meal. Plus, they’re easy to grab as leftovers for lunch!
How to Make Muffin Pan Meatloaf Step by Step
Ingredients
1 lb lean ground beef
1/2 cup sweet yellow onion, chopped
1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
1/2 cup bread crumbs
8 oz can tomato sauce
2 large eggs
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tsp minced garlic
2 tsp parsley flakes
1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp ground mustard seed
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine all ingredients. Mix until well combined. Spray a muffin pan with cooking spray. Fill each muffin cup with the meat mixture, pressing down slightly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through. Let cool for a few minutes before removing from the pan.
How to Serve Muffin Pan Meatloaf
These hearty muffins pair wonderfully with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed veggies for a balanced meal. You might also consider serving them with a fresh salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. For an extra kick, a tangy barbecue sauce on top can elevate the flavor.
How to Store Muffin Pan Meatloaf
Store leftover Muffin Pan Meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. If you want to keep them longer, these meatloaf muffins freeze well. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Expert Tips for Cooking Muffin Pan Meatloaf
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
- Customize by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables for more flavor and nutrition.
- Make sure to press down the meat mixture in the muffin cups to ensure even cooking.
- Check for doneness by inserting a thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 160°F.
- Experiment with different sauces or toppings for variety with each batch.
Delicious Variations of Muffin Pan Meatloaf
Try a spicy version by adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the mix. For a more herby taste, incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, use lentils or chickpeas instead of beef to create a nutritious meatless meatloaf muffin.
This flavorful Muffin Pan Meatloaf is a must-try for anyone looking to add convenience and fun to family dinners. Not only is it delicious, but its versatility allows for endless adaptations. Give this easy recipe a shot, and you’ll be craving these meatloaf muffins again and again!
