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Quick Mini Meatloaf Muffins with Savory BBQ Glaze

Four perfectly baked mini meatloaf portions topped with a shiny glaze in a metal muffin tin.

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Make these individual meatloaf servings in a muffin tin for a quick, kid-friendly weeknight dinner. They bake faster than a traditional loaf and are perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs ground beef (85% lean recommended)
  • 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or panko breadcrumbs)
  • 1/2 cup milk (any kind)
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup finely minced onion
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup ketchup (for the mix)
  • 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (for the glaze)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (for the glaze)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for the glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers and milk. Let this mixture sit for five minutes to soften the crackers.
  3. Add the ground beef, egg, minced onion, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and ketchup to the cracker mixture.
  4. Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
  5. Divide the meat mixture evenly among the 12 muffin cups. Gently press the mixture down to form a compact, uniform shape in each cup.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard to create the glaze.
  7. Spoon about one teaspoon of the glaze over the top of each mini meatloaf.
  8. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit and the glaze is slightly set.
  9. Let the meatloaf cups rest in the pan for five minutes before carefully removing them. Serve immediately with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.

Notes

  • For easy cleanup, line your muffin tin cups with paper liners before greasing.
  • These meatloaf cups freeze well. Cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
  • If you prefer a sweeter topping, substitute the BBQ sauce glaze with a mixture of ketchup and a touch of maple syrup.

Nutrition