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Mini Meatloaf Cupcakes Recipe

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  • Author: admin
  • 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

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.

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Find it online: https://everydaytastykitchen.com/mini-meatloaf-cupcakes-recipe/