These Make-Ahead Meatloaf Muffins are a convenient and delicious twist on traditional meatloaf. By portioning the meatloaf into individual muffins, you can easily freeze and reheat them for quick and hearty meals throughout the week. Packed with flavorful ingredients and topped with a tangy glaze, these meatloaf muffins are sure to become a family favorite. Serve them with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- For the glaze:
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, onion, bell pepper, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, thyme, salt, black pepper, eggs, milk, and parsley. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Divide the meat mixture evenly among the muffin cups, pressing it down lightly to fill the cups.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar to make the glaze.
- Brush the glaze over the top of each meatloaf muffin.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the meatloaf is cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes.
- Carefully remove the meatloaf muffins from the tin and serve immediately, or let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, place the meatloaf muffins on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Interesting Facts
Individual meatloaf muffins are a great way to control portion sizes and make meal planning easier.
Meatloaf is a classic American comfort food that dates back centuries.
The addition of bell peppers adds a pop of color and extra flavor to these meatloaf muffins.
Using ground beef with a higher fat content (around 85%) can result in juicier meatloaf muffins.
Leftover meatloaf muffins can be sliced and used in sandwiches or crumbled over salads.