Savory Mini Meatloaf Muffins With Mashed Potato Frosting Recipe

There's nothing quite as comforting as a classic meatloaf dinner, but what if you could enjoy all that hearty flavor in a fun, bite-sized package? These Savory Mini Meatloaf Muffins with Mashed Potato Frosting bring together juicy, flavorful meatloaf and creamy, buttery mashed potatoes in a way that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or even entertaining guests.

I first discovered this idea while looking for an easier way to serve meatloaf to my kids without the mess of slicing and serving. The results? An instant hit! Not only do these little meatloaf muffins cook faster than a traditional loaf, but their adorable presentation with fluffy mashed potato "frosting" makes them irresistibly fun to eat.

Why You'll Love These Savory Mini Meatloaf Muffins

Get ready to elevate your comfort food game with these delicious, mini-sized meatloaf muffins. Here’s why you’ll want to make them again and again:

First, they’re quick and easy. Unlike traditional meatloaf, which can take over an hour to cook, these muffins bake in just 25 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.

They’re also perfectly portioned. No more worrying about slicing the meatloaf evenly—just grab a muffin and enjoy. These are great for meal prepping, as they store and reheat beautifully.

If you have picky eaters in your house, you’ll love how kid-friendly these are. The fun, cupcake-like shape makes them appealing to little ones, and you can even let them help "frost" the tops with mashed potatoes.

And let’s not forget that they’re versatile. You can customize the meat mixture with different proteins, seasonings, or mix-ins, and even swap out the mashed potatoes for a different topping like sweet potatoes or cauliflower mash.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these Savory Mini Meatloaf Muffins lies in the combination of simple, flavorful ingredients that come together to create a tender, juicy bite.

The ground beef is the star of the show. I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture. You can also swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

To bind everything together, breadcrumbs and an egg work wonders. The breadcrumbs help absorb moisture and keep the texture light, while the egg ensures everything holds together perfectly.

A mix of onion, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce adds depth and umami flavor. Grating the onion instead of dicing it ensures it blends seamlessly into the meat without leaving large chunks.

For the mashed potato topping, russet potatoes are the best choice. They mash up light and fluffy, especially when whipped with a little butter and cream for extra richness.

Lastly, a ketchup glaze on top of the meatloaf muffins adds that perfect touch of tangy sweetness. If you prefer, you can swap in barbecue sauce or even a savory tomato-based sauce.

How To Make These Mini Meatloaf Muffins

Creating these delicious meatloaf muffins is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a meal the whole family will love.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and greasing a standard muffin tin. This ensures easy removal and prevents sticking.

Next, in a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, grated onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix gently—overworking the meat can make the muffins tough.

Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups, pressing down lightly to form small domes. Brush each with a thin layer of ketchup to create a sweet and tangy glaze as they bake.

Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. While the meatloaf muffins are baking, prepare your mashed potatoes by boiling peeled and chopped russet potatoes until fork-tender.

Once the potatoes are cooked, drain and mash them with butter, cream, and salt until smooth and fluffy. For an extra touch, you can whip them with a hand mixer for an airy texture.

When the meatloaf muffins are done, let them cool slightly before piping or spooning the mashed potatoes on top. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a beautiful finishing touch.

Storage Options

These mini meatloaf muffins store beautifully, making them great for meal prep or leftovers.

If you have extras, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The mashed potatoes may firm up a bit, but they will soften when reheated.

For longer storage, freeze the muffins (without the mashed potatoes) for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

To reheat, simply microwave them in 30-second intervals or warm them in the oven at 325°F for about 10 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about these meatloaf muffins is how customizable they are. Here are a few ideas to change things up:

For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You may need to add a little extra moisture, such as a splash of broth, to keep them from drying out.

Want a low-carb version? Swap the breadcrumbs for almond flour or crushed pork rinds. You can also use mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes for the topping.

If you prefer a different glaze, try using barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or even a balsamic glaze for a unique twist.

For a more vegetable-packed version, mix in finely grated carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers into the meat mixture. This is a great way to sneak in extra nutrients for picky eaters.

No matter how you customize them, these Savory Mini Meatloaf Muffins with Mashed Potato Frosting are sure to become a favorite in your home. Give them a try, and enjoy every delicious, bite-sized piece!

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