If you’re craving a fun twist on a classic comfort food, this Mini Meatloaf Cupcakes Recipe is exactly what you need. These adorable, individual-sized meatloaves bring all the cozy, hearty flavors of traditional meatloaf but with a playful presentation that makes them perfect for family dinners, parties, or even lunchboxes. Each cupcake bursts with seasoned ground beef, savory stuffing, and just the right touch of BBQ sauce, topped off with melted cheddar and an optional fluffy mashed potato “frosting” that transforms dinner into a seriously tasty treat. Trust me, once you try these, mini meatloaf cupcakes will become your go-to recipe for easy, satisfying meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Everything about this Mini Meatloaf Cupcakes Recipe is straightforward and relies on ingredients that pack a punch in flavor and texture. From the savory ground beef to the crispy stuffing and creamy cheese, every element works together to create a comforting bite-sized meal. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delicious cupcakes that everyone will adore.
- 1 lb. extra-lean ground beef (or vegetarian crumble): The hearty base that brings richness and protein, choose vegetarian crumble for a meat-free option.
- 1 package of stuffing mix: Adds a wonderful texture and herbaceous flavor to the meat mixture.
- 1 egg: Binds the ingredients together for perfect cupcake structure.
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (divided): Provides tangy sweetness to elevate flavor both inside and on top of the meatloaf.
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese or cheese blend: Melts to give a creamy, cheesy topping that complements the meat beautifully.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Adds depth and savory aroma to the mixture.
- 1 cup water: Keeps the meatloaf moist and tender.
- Salt and pepper: Essentials to season and bring out the flavors.
- Optional mashed potato topping: Use 3 cups of prepared mashed potatoes mixed with 1/4 cup frozen peas for a creative and comforting finish.
How to Make Mini Meatloaf Cupcakes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Meat Mixture
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees. Season the ground beef (or vegetarian crumble) with salt and pepper to your liking. Then, in a large bowl, combine the beef with stuffing mix, egg, garlic powder, 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce, and water. This mixture is the heart of your mini meatloaf cupcakes, blending flavor and moisture perfectly.
Step 2: Shape the Meatloaf Cupcakes
Lightly spray a 12-cup muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray. Divide your meat mixture evenly among the muffin cups. Using your finger, press down into the center of each to create a small indentation. This little well is meant to hold the extra BBQ sauce, adding more juicy flavor to each bite.
Step 3: Add BBQ Sauce Filling
Fill each indentation with the remaining 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce. This step is crucial for giving your mini meatloaf cupcakes a punch of tangy, smoky sweetness right in the center.
Step 4: Bake and Add Cheese
Bake the meatloaf cupcakes in the oven for about 25 to 30 minutes until cooked through (vegetarian versions typically need about 20 minutes). Then, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over each cupcake and return the pan to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt to golden perfection.
Step 5: Optional Mashed Potato Topping
After removing the cupcakes from the oven, let them cool for 5 minutes. If you want to get creative, pipe or dollop prepared mashed potatoes on top of each cupcake using a ziplock bag with a cut corner to create a frosting effect. The peas mixed in add a pop of vibrant color and a sweet surprise inside the “frosting.”
How to Serve Mini Meatloaf Cupcakes Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives can brighten the appearance and add a fresh note to these rich meatloaf cupcakes. For an extra touch of flavor, drizzle a small amount of BBQ sauce or ketchup on top, making each cupcake look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Mini Meatloaf Cupcakes pair beautifully with classic sides like steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or even a fresh garden salad to balance the meal. For a heartier plate, creamy mashed potatoes or buttery corn on the cob are sure to satisfy those comfort food cravings.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these mini meatloaf cupcakes on individual plates with a colorful napkin and fun toothpicks or mini forks for a party vibe. Another playful idea is to make sliders by sandwiching the cupcakes in mini sandwich buns with lettuce and pickles, turning them into handheld delights perfect for casual gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store your mini meatloaf cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners throughout the week.
Freezing
You can freeze these meatloaf cupcakes for up to 2 months. Just wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat your mini meatloaf cupcakes in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes or until heated through. For a crispier exterior, pop them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for 10 minutes. If you have mashed potato topping, microwave reheating is best to keep the potatoes creamy.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well in this Mini Meatloaf Cupcakes Recipe and keeps the dish a bit lighter while maintaining great flavor. Just be sure to watch the moisture content since turkey tends to dry out faster.
How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
Simply swap the ground beef for a vegetarian crumble as suggested in the ingredients. Adjust the baking time slightly, typically reducing it to about 20 minutes, since vegetarian options cook faster. The stuffing mix and BBQ sauce will still give plenty of flavor.
Is it necessary to use stuffing mix?
The stuffing mix adds wonderful texture and seasoning, helping the cupcakes hold together, but if you don’t have any, you can substitute with breadcrumbs mixed with your favorite herbs for similar results.
Can I prepare the meat mixture ahead of time?
You can mix everything the night before and refrigerate the batter in a covered bowl. Just shape and bake when you’re ready. This makes the Mini Meatloaf Cupcakes Recipe an easy meal for busy days.
What’s the best way to serve these for a dinner party?
Serve the mini meatloaf cupcakes warm on a decorative platter with a variety of sauces like BBQ, ketchup, or mustard. Pair with colorful sides and garnishes for a crowd-pleasing centerpiece that’s both fun and filling.
Final Thoughts
This Mini Meatloaf Cupcakes Recipe is a delightful way to bring new life to a time-honored favorite. Its adorable size, irresistible flavors, and versatile toppings make it a recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation for weeknight meals or special occasions. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever made meatloaf without the cupcake twist!
Print
Mini Meatloaf Cupcakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 meatloaf cupcakes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Mini Meatloaf Cupcakes are a fun and savory twist on traditional meatloaf, baked in muffin tins for individual servings. Made with extra-lean ground beef or a vegetarian crumble alternative, mixed with stuffing, seasoned with garlic powder, and topped with BBQ sauce and cheddar cheese. Optionally crowned with creamy mashed potatoes and peas for a comforting and visually delightful meal.
Ingredients
Meatloaf Mixture
- 1 lb. extra-lean ground beef (or vegetarian crumble)
- 1 package of stuffing mix
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup water
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, divided
Toppings
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese or cheese blend, shredded
Optional Mashed Potato Topping
- 3 cups prepared mashed potatoes
- 1/4 cup frozen peas
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Mix: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the ground beef or vegetarian crumble with salt and pepper. In a large bowl, combine the beef or crumble, stuffing mix, egg, garlic powder, 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce, and water until thoroughly mixed.
- Prepare Muffin Tin: Spray a muffin tin generously with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Scoop the meat mixture evenly into 12 muffin cups. Use your finger to make an indentation in the center of each cup for the BBQ sauce filling.
- Add BBQ Sauce Filling: Spoon the remaining 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce evenly into each indentation created in the meatloaf mixture, ensuring each cupcake has a flavorful center.
- Bake and Add Cheese: Bake the meatloaf cupcakes for 25-30 minutes (or 20 minutes if using the vegetarian version). After this initial bake, evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each cupcake, then return to the oven to bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese melts and is slightly golden.
- Cool and Optional Mashed Potato Topping: Remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes. If desired, prepare a mashed potato topping by placing prepared mashed potatoes into a piping bag or ziplock bag with the corner cut off to ‘frost’ the meatloaf cupcakes. Garnish with frozen peas for added texture and color.
Notes
- Use extra-lean ground beef to reduce fat content while maintaining flavor.
- Vegetarian crumble can be substituted for a meat-free version for vegetarians.
- Stuffing mix adds texture and seasoning; use a savory variety for best results.
- Adjust BBQ sauce quantity according to taste preferences.
- Make sure to spray the muffin tin well to avoid sticking.
- The optional mashed potato topping adds a classic shepherd’s pie feel and extra comfort.
- Let cupcakes cool slightly before serving for best texture.
- Freeze leftovers for up to 2 months and reheat in the oven for best results.
