Mini Meatloaf

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🍽 Mini Meatloaf – Complete Recipe Guide

📖 Description

Mini Meatloaf is a smaller, individual-sized version of classic meatloaf. These single-portion meatloaves cook faster, stay juicier, and are perfect for portion control, family dinners, kids’ meals, and meal prep. They are flavorful, tender, and can be customized with different seasonings and sauces.

⏱ Time & Yield

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time: 25–30 minutes

  • Total Time: 40–45 minutes

  • Servings: 4 mini meatloaves

🛒 Ingredients

For Meatloaf:

  • 500g (1 lb) ground beef or chicken mince

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 egg

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs

  • ¼ cup milk

  • 2 tbsp ketchup

  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning

For Topping:

  • ¼ cup ketchup

  • 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional)

  • 1 tsp mustard (optional)

👩‍🍳 Instructions (Step-by-Step)

  1. Preheat Oven
    Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease.

  2. Prepare Mixture
    In a large bowl, combine:

    • Mince

    • Onion

    • Garlic

    • Egg

    • Breadcrumbs

    • Milk

    • Ketchup

    • Worcestershire sauce

    • Seasonings
      Mix gently until just combined.

  3. Shape Mini Loaves
    Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into mini loaf shapes.

  4. Prepare Topping
    Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread over each mini loaf.

  5. Bake
    Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until fully cooked (internal temperature 70°C / 160°F).

  6. Rest & Serve
    Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

📝 Notes

  • Avoid overmixing to keep meatloaf tender.

  • You can bake them in a muffin tin for easy portion control.

  • Chicken, turkey, or beef can all be used.

💡 Tips for Best Mini Meatloaf

  • Add grated carrots or zucchini for extra moisture and nutrition.

  • Use panko breadcrumbs for lighter texture.

  • For extra juiciness, add 1 tbsp olive oil.

  • Let meatloaf rest before slicing to hold shape.

🍽 Serving Suggestions

  • Mashed potatoes

  • Steamed vegetables

  • Rice and salad

  • Garlic bread

  • Roasted vegetables

🧮 Nutritional Information (Per Mini Meatloaf – Approx.)

  • Calories: 280–320 kcal

  • Protein: 20–25 g

  • Fat: 18–22 g

  • Carbohydrates: 12–15 g

  • Fiber: 1–2 g

  • Sodium: 500–600 mg

(Values depend on meat type and portion size.)

🌿 Health Benefits

  • High Protein: Builds muscle and keeps you full longer.

  • Balanced Meal: Contains protein, carbs, and fats.

  • Portion Control: Mini size helps prevent overeating.

  • Customizable: Can be made low-fat or gluten-free.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (Q & A)

Q1: Can I freeze mini meatloaf?

Yes! Freeze cooked or uncooked mini meatloaves for up to 3 months.

Q2: Can I make this without breadcrumbs?

Yes, use crushed crackers, oats, or almond flour.

Q3: How do I know it’s fully cooked?

Internal temperature should reach 70°C (160°F) and juices run clear.

Q4: Can I make it spicy?

Absolutely — add chili flakes, green chilies, or hot sauce.

Q5: Can I air fry mini meatloaf?

Yes! Air fry at 180°C (350°F) for 15–18 minutes.

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