Meatloaf Cupcakes Recipe With Creamy Mashed Potato Topping

Name: Meatloaf Cupcakes
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 1 lb / 500g beef mince (ground beef); – 1 onion, grated (brown, white, or yellow); – 2 small carrots, grated; – 2 eggs; – 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese; – 1/4 cup tomato ketchup (or tomato sauce); – 1 cup panko (or breadcrumbs); – 1 tsp garlic powder; – 1 tsp dried oregano; – 1 tsp dried thyme; – 1 tsp salt; – Pepper (to taste); – 2 large or 3 medium potatoes; – 1 tbsp butter (optional); – 1/2 – 1 cup milk; – Tomato ketchup or sauce (amount as needed); – Parsley, finely chopped (optional, amount as needed)

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Why You’ll Love This Meatloaf Cupcakes

Meatloaf cupcakes are a fun twist on the classic comfort food, turning a traditional dish into individual servings that are perfect for busy families. With their quick bake time and easy prep, they fit seamlessly into weeknight routines while delivering all the hearty flavors you crave. Whether you’re a home cook looking for something simple or a busy parent needing a kid-friendly meal, these meatloaf cupcakes with creamy mashed potato topping will become a go-to favorite.

One big reason you’ll love Meatloaf Cupcakes is their ease of preparation. This recipe streamlines the classic meatloaf into single-serving mini portions that bake quickly in a muffin tin. Prep is simple: mix, spoon into cups, top and bake, cutting hands-on time to about 15 minutes with 20-25 minutes of baking at 375°F. The small size shortens cooking time and helps ensure even doneness, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Using this approach reduces fuss and keeps the comfort-food appeal without the long wait.

Another draw is the health benefits. Turning traditional meatloaf into meatloaf cupcakes lets you manage portions for better calorie control and easily add vegetables like grated carrot for extra fiber and vitamins. You can swap beef for leaner options like turkey to cut down on fat. These mini servings support balanced meals focused on protein and make it easier to track your macros, which is great for those watching their diet. Plus, the recipe includes hidden veggies, boosting nutrition while keeping things tasty.

Meatloaf cupcakes also offer great versatility. They adapt to various diets, such as using ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based grounds for vegans. You can switch breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives or use dairy-free milk, making it accessible for all. The distinctive flavor comes from concentrating ingredients into cupcake sizes, which intensifies the crust and glaze for a caramelized edge. Seasonings like herbs and cheese add contrast, setting these apart from regular meatloaf and making every bite exciting.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Meatloaf Cupcakes
2. Essential Ingredients for Meatloaf Cupcakes
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Meatloaf Cupcakes: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Meatloaf Cupcakes
5. Mastering Meatloaf Cupcakes: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Meatloaf Cupcakes: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Meatloaf Cupcakes
8. Meatloaf Cupcakes

Essential Ingredients for Meatloaf Cupcakes

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making delicious meatloaf cupcakes. This section lists everything you need, based on the recipe provided. We’ll organize it clearly so you can follow along easily and prepare your meal without any guesswork.

Meatloaf Cupcakes Ingredients

1 lb / 500g beef mince (ground beef)
1 onion, grated (brown, white, or yellow)
2 small carrots, grated
2 eggs
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/4 cup tomato ketchup (or tomato sauce)
1 cup panko (or breadcrumbs)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp salt
Pepper (to taste)

Mashed Potato Ingredients

2 large or 3 medium potatoes
1 tbsp butter (optional)
1/2 – 1 cup milk

Garnish Ingredients

Tomato ketchup or sauce (amount as needed)
Parsley, finely chopped (optional, amount as needed)

These ingredients create about 8 servings of meatloaf cupcakes. For a detailed nutritional breakdown, keep reading in the relevant section. Remember, you can tweak these for dietary needs, like using gluten-free panko if required.

How to Prepare the Perfect Meatloaf Cupcakes: Step-by-Step Guide

Making meatloaf cupcakes is straightforward and fun, especially with this step-by-step guide. Start by preheating your oven and gathering your tools to keep things organized. This method ensures your meatloaf cupcakes turn out moist, flavorful, and ready in under 40 minutes total time.

First Step: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin to prevent sticking. Measure out your ground beef, grate the onion and carrot, and whisk the eggs. This setup helps you move quickly and get even results for your meatloaf cupcakes.

Second Step: Combine Dry and Wet Components

In a large bowl, mix the panko or breadcrumbs with milk, then add the beef mince, grated onion, carrots, eggs, parmesan cheese, ketchup, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Gently combine everything with your hands until just mixed. Overmixing can make the meatloaf cupcakes tough, so keep it light.

Third Step: Portion into Muffin Tin

Scoop about 1/2 cup of the mixture for each portion and press it into the muffin tin, forming a slight dome. This step is key for even cooking. Aim for around 8 portions to match the recipe yield. Try this technique in other meatloaf recipes for consistent results.

Fourth Step: Bake for Optimal Temperature and Time

Bake the meatloaf cupcakes for 20-25 minutes until browned on top. Check for doneness with a thermometer, aiming for 160°F for beef. While they bake, prepare the mashed potatoes by peeling and dicing the potatoes, then steaming or boiling them until soft.

Fifth Step: Make the Mashed Potato

Once the potatoes are done, drain them and add butter and milk. Mash until smooth, adjusting milk for a creamy yet firm texture that holds shape on top of the meatloaf. This topping adds the creamy mashed potato element that makes these cupcakes special.

Sixth Step: Assemble and Garnish

After baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest. Smear ketchup on each portion, top with mashed potato by piping or spooning, and sprinkle with parsley if desired. Serve warm for the best flavor. For more ideas, check out related recipes on the site.

This guide covers the full directions, including nutritional info per serving: 263 calories, 23.9g carbs, and 23.3g protein. It takes just 15 minutes prep and 25 minutes cook time for a total of 40 minutes.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Meatloaf Cupcakes

Meatloaf cupcakes are highly adaptable, letting you tweak ingredients for different needs. Whether you’re aiming for a lighter meal or accommodating allergies, these swaps keep the dish delicious. Start with protein alternatives like ground turkey to reduce fat while maintaining moisture.

For protein and main components, options include ground beef for rich flavor or plant-based grounds for a vegan version. Add vegetables and adjust sauces for variety, such as using barbecue sauce instead of ketchup. These changes make meatloaf cupcakes flexible for everyone in your family.

Mastering Meatloaf Cupcakes: Advanced Tips and Variations

To take your meatloaf cupcakes to the next level, focus on pro techniques like gentle mixing and chilling the mixture before baking. Experiment with flavors, such as adding Mexican spices for a twist. Presentation ideas include piping mashed potato for a neat look, and make-ahead options help with meal prep.

The key to great meatloaf cupcakes is in the details, like using fresh herbs for added brightness.

How to Store Meatloaf Cupcakes: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your meatloaf cupcakes fresh and tasty. Cool them to room temperature before refrigerating in an airtight container for 3-4 days. For freezing, wrap individually and store for up to three months, then thaw and reheat as needed. These tips ensure your meals stay enjoyable even later in the week.

Storage Method	Duration	Tips
Refrigeration	3-4 days	Use airtight container
Freezing	Up to 3 months	Wrap tightly

Here, learn about the health benefits of beef to make informed choices.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Meatloaf Cupcakes

How long does it take to bake meatloaf cupcakes compared to a regular meatloaf?

Meatloaf cupcakes typically bake in 20 to 25 minutes, which is much faster than a traditional large meatloaf that usually needs about 1 hour. The smaller size allows heat to penetrate more quickly and evenly, making meatloaf cupcakes a great option for a quicker meal without sacrificing flavor.

Can I add vegetables to meatloaf cupcakes to make them healthier?

Yes, you can add shredded or grated vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, spinach, or cabbage to your meatloaf mixture. These vegetables blend well without affecting the texture. You can add 2 to 3 cups of vegetables, and if the mixture begins to crumble, simply add a bit of tomato sauce or an egg to help bind everything together.

What is the best way to reheat meatloaf cupcakes without drying them out?

For reheating, the microwave works well after thawing, as it heats quickly. Alternatively, use a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. The meatloaf cupcakes’ browned edges help retain moisture better than a slice of full meatloaf, preventing them from drying out during reheating.

How should I store meatloaf cupcakes in the freezer to keep them fresh?

Allow the meatloaf cupcakes to cool completely so a thin skin forms on the mashed potato topping. Then wrap each cupcake tightly in cling wrap to stop the mashed potato from sticking. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. This method keeps them fresh and easy to thaw while preserving texture and flavor.

Is it necessary to pipe the mashed potato topping onto meatloaf cupcakes?

Piping mashed potatoes on top is optional and mainly done for presentation. Most people simply pile on the mashed potatoes and fluff them with a fork, which is quicker and still looks appetizing. Whether piped or spooned on, the mashed potatoes add a smooth, creamy finish that complements the meatloaf perfectly.

Meatloaf Cupcakes with Creamy Mashed Potato Topping Recipe