Why You’ll Love Meatloaf Muffins Recipe

They’re perfectly portioned — no slicing required and great for kids or adults alike.
Faster cooking time compared to classic meatloaf.
Juicy and moist with a sweet-savory glaze on top.
Easy to customize with spices, cheese, or veggies.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the meatloaf
nonstick cooking spray or softened butter
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

For the glaze
1/4 cup barbecue sauce or ketchup
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Grease 8 cups of a muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray or softened butter.
Mince the vegetables: combine the onion, carrot, celery, parsley, and garlic in a food processor and pulse until very finely chopped (or chop by hand).
In a medium bowl, mix together the minced vegetables, ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Handle the mixture gently without compressing it too much.
Divide the mixture evenly among the greased muffin cups. Do not pack too firmly.
Bake until just set, about 20 minutes. While baking, whisk together the barbecue sauce or ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and cumin for the glaze.
Remove the pan from the oven and brush a generous layer of glaze onto each muffin. Return to the oven and bake until well browned and cooked through (internal temp at least 165°F), about 10–15 more minutes.
Let cool briefly before removing from the tin and serving.

Servings and timing

Serves 4 servings (8 meatloaf muffins).
Prep time: about 20 minutes.
Cook time: about 35 minutes.
Total time: about 55 minutes.

Variations

Spicy: Add finely chopped pickled jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
Cheesy: Nestle cubes of cheddar or Swiss into each muffin before baking.
Vegetarian: Substitute plant‑based ground meat or finely chopped mushrooms in place of beef.
BBQ twist: Brush with your favorite BBQ sauce instead of the glaze for a smoky flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover meatloaf muffins keep in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days in an airtight container. You can freeze cooked muffins for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave on high for about 90 seconds or warm in a preheated oven until heated through.

FAQs

How do I know when the meatloaf muffins are cooked through?

They’re done when the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F and the juices run clear.

Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of meats if preferred.

Can I prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time?

Yes — mix ahead and refrigerate for a few hours before baking.

What else can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

You can use crushed crackers, oats, or gluten‑free crumbs as alternatives.

Can I make these gluten‑free?

Yes — use gluten‑free breadcrumbs or a gluten‑free cereal crumble.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Can I freeze the meatloaf muffins?

Yes — fully cooked and cooled muffins freeze well for up to 3 months.

What should I serve with meatloaf muffins?

They pair nicely with mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a simple salad.

Can I skip the glaze?

Yes — but the glaze adds flavor and helps lock in moisture.

Can I bake these in a different pan?

You could shape the mixture into a traditional loaf and bake on a sheet pan, adjusting time as needed.

Conclusion

Meatloaf muffins are a fun, delicious twist on classic meatloaf — easy to make, perfect for portion control, and loved by both kids and adults. They offer juicy flavor, a sweet glaze, and flexibility for customization. Whether for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, they’re a crowd‑pleasing choice that’s simple to prepare and satisfying to eat.

Meatloaf Muffins