Name: Meatloaf Muffins Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Nonstick cooking spray or softened butter (for greasing); 1/2 white onion, coarsely chopped; 1 medium carrot, peeled and coarsely chopped; 1 stalk celery, coarsely chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley leaves; 3 cloves garlic; 1 pound 90% lean ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 cup barbecue sauce or ketchup; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’ve ever loved classic meatloaf but felt it was a bit too fussy or slow to cook, this Meatloaf Muffins Recipe will be your new best friend. I adore how these individual-sized meatloaves bake faster, making weeknight dinners a breeze, and they’re just as flavorful and comforting as the traditional loaf. It’s one of those recipes that feels cozy yet effortless—perfect for busy evenings or when you want a portion-controlled, kid-friendly meal.

What makes this Meatloaf Muffins Recipe truly special is the way it lets you enjoy all those great meatloaf flavors without the wait! Plus, each muffin holds the perfect balance of juicy beef, fresh veggies, and that irresistible tangy glaze on top. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds (and maybe thirds!). I’ve found that these muffins reheat beautifully, making them a solid go-to for meal prep too.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic to this Meatloaf Muffins Recipe lies in simple, wholesome ingredients that work harmoniously to build flavor and moisture. When you pick fresh veggies and quality beef, the results are always better. Also, grabbing good pantry staples like Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard really elevates the glaze.

White onion: Adds sweetness and moisture; I usually coarsely chop it so the texture stays nice.
Carrot: I like the natural sweetness and crunch it brings, plus it sneaks in some veggies effortlessly.
Celery stalk: Brings subtle freshness and a great base flavor.
Fresh parsley leaves: Don’t skip these—they brighten up the whole meat mixture wonderfully.
Garlic cloves: For that classic savory punch; three cloves keep it flavorful without overpowering.
90% lean ground beef: Balances flavor with less grease than higher fat content beef; I prefer lean for tidy muffins.
Breadcrumbs: I use plain or Italian seasoned breadcrumbs; they help bind and add texture.
Large egg: Acts as a binder to keep everything together perfectly.
Worcestershire sauce: This ingredient amps up the umami and gives it that iconic meatloaf depth.
Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors.
Barbecue sauce or ketchup: For the glaze; I like a smoky BBQ sauce but ketchup works if you want it classic sweet tangy.
Brown sugar: Balances the glaze with a caramelized sweetness once baked.
Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle kick and complexity to the topping.
Ground cumin: Gives a warm earthiness to the glaze that really makes these pop.

Variations

I love to experiment with this Meatloaf Muffins Recipe because it’s so adaptable. Whether you want to swap ingredients to suit dietary needs or just mix up the flavors, there’s room to make it your own. Don’t hesitate to tweak the veggies or sauce—it’s all about making it perfect for your family.

Turkey or chicken version: I’ve tried lean turkey instead of beef for a lighter version, and it still stays juicy if you add a little extra moisture (like a splash of milk).
Gluten-free: Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free options or oatmeal to keep the binder without wheat.
Cheese stuffed: My kids go crazy for meatloaf muffins with a little mozzarella or cheddar cube in the center—totally worth the extra step!
Spicy twist: Add some chili flakes or hot sauce to the meat mixture if you like a mild kick. It livens things up without overwhelming.
Seasonal herbs: Swap parsley for fresh thyme or rosemary depending on what’s fresh or your mood.

How to Make Meatloaf Muffins Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Veggies and Mix

Start by giving the onion, carrot, celery, parsley, and garlic a quick blitz in a food processor until they’re finely chopped but not mushy. This helps the veggies blend into the beef and keeps your muffins juicy and tender. If you prefer, you can finely chop by hand, but the processor saves time and effort.

Step 2: Combine Your Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and the finely chopped veggie mix. I like to use my hands for the best, most even mixing but don’t overwork the meat or it’ll get tough. Just fold until everything is nicely incorporated.

Step 3: Make Your Glaze

Whisk together your barbecue sauce or ketchup with the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and ground cumin in a small bowl. This glaze will give each muffin that perfect sticky, caramelized top. I often lick the spoon—it’s that good!

Step 4: Form and Bake

Spray a muffin tin generously with nonstick spray or rub with softened butter to help the muffins release easily once baked. Divide the meat mixture evenly among the cups—about 12 muffins—and press them down gently so they hold together. Brush the glaze onto the top of each muffin before popping them in the oven. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.

How to Serve Meatloaf Muffins Recipe

Garnishes

When I serve these meatloaf muffins, I love topping them with fresh chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. Sometimes a little extra drizzle of warm BBQ sauce on top is perfect for those saucy lovers. A sprinkle of shredded cheese right after baking also makes things extra special.

Side Dishes

I usually pair these meatloaf muffins with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted garlic green beans for a classic combo. Another favorite is a crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette—it balances the richness nicely. You can also try sweet potato fries for an easy, kid-approved option!

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, I once arranged these meatloaf muffins on a platter with colorful roasted veggies and little ramekins of dipping sauces, like extra BBQ and mustard-mayo. Perfect for a casual party or game day! They also look adorable topped with mini American or Italian flags for a themed dinner night with friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftover meatloaf muffins in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They keep their shape really well and the flavors even deepen overnight. Just make sure they’re fully cooled before refrigerating to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

Freezing these muffins works wonderfully if you want to batch cook. After baking and cooling, I place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They stay great for about 3 months, ready whenever you need a quick dinner fix.

Reheating

The best way I’ve found to reheat meatloaf muffins is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to keep them moist and flavorful. You can also microwave them covered for about 1-2 minutes if you’re in a hurry, but I prefer the oven method for that fresh-baked texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat for this Meatloaf Muffins Recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork can be great alternatives. Just keep in mind that leaner meats might need extra moisture like a splash of milk or a bit of olive oil to keep the muffins from drying out.
How do I prevent meatloaf muffins from sticking to the pan?

Make sure to generously grease your muffin tin with nonstick spray or softened butter before adding the meat mixture. You can also line the cups with parchment liners if you want easier removal, but I find a good grease job usually does the trick.
Can I make the meatloaf muffins ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and bake them a day ahead, then reheat before serving. They also freeze well to enjoy later—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What should I serve with meatloaf muffins?

Classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad all complement the savory flavors beautifully. For a kid-friendly option, try sweet potato fries or steamed corn.
Is the glaze necessary for the meatloaf muffins?

The glaze adds a delicious tangy-sweet finish that really makes these meatloaf muffins sing. You could skip it, but I highly recommend giving it a try—it’s the secret to that classic, comforting meatloaf experience.

Final Thoughts

This Meatloaf Muffins Recipe has honestly become one of my favorite shortcuts for busy weeknights. It captures all the warmth and nostalgia of homemade meatloaf but in a fun, easy-to-eat form that everyone loves. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or hosting friends, these little delights deliver satisfying, homey flavors with minimal fuss. Give them a try—you might just find yourself making these muffins again and again!