Savory Mini Meatloaf Muffins With Mashed Potato Frosting Recipe

There's something undeniably comforting about a classic meatloaf, but what if we made it even more fun and convenient? These Savory Mini Meatloaf Muffins with Mashed Potato Frosting are the perfect bite-sized twist on a family favorite. With a flavorful, juicy meatloaf base and a creamy mashed potato topping, these muffins are not only adorable but also incredibly satisfying.

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I first made these when looking for an easy way to serve meatloaf to my kids without the long baking time of a traditional loaf. The individual portions were an instant hit! They cook faster, are perfectly portioned, and look amazing when topped with a fluffy swirl of mashed potatoes. Whether you're making them for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or entertaining guests, these mini meatloaf muffins are guaranteed to impress.

Why You'll Love These Savory Mini Meatloaf Muffins

Get ready to enjoy meatloaf like never before! These Savory Mini Meatloaf Muffins are packed with flavor and have plenty of reasons to make them a staple in your meal rotation.

First, they're quick and easy to prepare. Unlike traditional meatloaf, which can take over an hour to cook, these mini versions bake in just 20-25 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.

They’re also kid-friendly and fun. Kids love anything in muffin form, and these little meatloaves are no exception! Plus, the mashed potato "frosting" makes them extra appealing.

If you're into meal prepping, these muffins are a dream. They store well in the fridge and freezer, making it easy to grab a quick lunch or dinner on demand.

Lastly, they’re perfectly portioned. No need to slice or guess serving sizes—each mini meatloaf is a ready-to-eat portion that pairs beautifully with veggies or a side salad.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these Savory Mini Meatloaf Muffins lies in simple, wholesome ingredients that work together to create a perfect bite.

Ground beef is the heart of the recipe. I recommend using an 85/15 blend for the best balance of juiciness and flavor. Leaner beef can make the meatloaf dry, but you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Breadcrumbs and eggs act as the binding agents, keeping the meatloaf muffins tender and preventing them from falling apart. Panko or traditional breadcrumbs both work well.

Worcestershire sauce and ketchup add depth and tangy sweetness. Worcestershire sauce enhances the umami flavor, while the ketchup provides moisture and a classic meatloaf taste.

For the mashed potato frosting, Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are the best choices. They mash up creamy and smooth, making them easy to pipe onto the muffins for that decorative finish.

Lastly, a muffin tin is key to shaping these adorable mini meatloaves. If you have a silicone muffin tray, it makes removal even easier.

How To Make These Savory Mini Meatloaf Muffins

Making these meatloaf muffins is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps for a delicious and fun meal!

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lightly greasing a muffin tin. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, finely chopped onion, garlic, and seasonings. Use your hands or a spoon to combine everything until just mixed—overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.

Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin tin cups, pressing gently to ensure each one holds its shape. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the meat is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.

While the meatloaf muffins are baking, prepare the mashed potato frosting. Boil the peeled potatoes until fork-tender, then mash with butter, milk, and seasoning until smooth and fluffy. If you want extra creamy potatoes, use a hand mixer.

Once the meatloaf muffins are done, let them cool slightly before removing them from the tin. Pipe or spoon the mashed potatoes on top, just like frosting a cupcake. For an extra touch, broil them for 2-3 minutes to get a golden-brown finish on the potatoes.

Storage Options

These mini meatloaf muffins store beautifully, making them perfect for meal prepping or leftovers.

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the muffins (without the mashed potatoes) on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating Tips: To keep them moist, reheat in a covered dish with a splash of water in the microwave or a low-temperature oven.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is highly customizable to fit different tastes and dietary needs.

For a healthier version, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You can also use whole wheat breadcrumbs for added fiber.

If you're looking for a low-carb option, replace the breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.

Want to switch up the flavors? Try adding Italian seasoning, BBQ sauce, or even a little shredded cheese into the meat mixture for a different twist.

For dairy-free mashed potatoes, substitute almond milk and vegan butter to keep them creamy without the dairy.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different toppings! A drizzle of gravy, a sprinkle of chives, or even crispy bacon bits can take these mini meatloaf muffins to the next level.

These Savory Mini Meatloaf Muffins with Mashed Potato Frosting are as fun to make as they are to eat. Whether you're meal prepping, feeding a family, or looking for a creative way to serve comfort food, this recipe is a guaranteed win!

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