Meatloaf Muffins: Quick, Delicious, and Perfectly Portioned
Meatloaf muffins revolutionize the traditional meatloaf recipe by turning it into fun-sized portions that cook up quickly and evenly. This version incorporates a flavorful blend of fresh vegetables, smoky barbecue sauce, and hearty ground sirloin, making each bite a delightful experience. These meatloaf muffins are perfect for a weeknight dinner, packed lunches, or even as a party appetizer.
A Speedy and Satisfying Meal
These meatloaf muffins are not only delicious but also convenient, cooking in just about 15 minutes. They offer a perfect solution for those busy evenings when you want a comforting meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. Let’s dive into making these tasty and efficient little meatloaves.
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
- Serving: 12 muffins
- Equipment: Muffin tin, food processor
Recipe Title: Meatloaf Muffins
Ingredients:
- 1 2/3 to 1 3/4 pounds ground sirloin
- 1 medium onion, cut into chunks
- 2 ribs celery, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 large egg plus a splash of milk, beaten
- 1 cup plain bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons grill seasoning (e.g., Montreal Steak Seasoning)
- 1 cup smoky barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup tomato salsa
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Vegetable oil or extra-virgin olive oil, for greasing
Directions:
- Preheat Oven and Prep Vegetables: Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Grease a 12-muffin tin with vegetable oil or extra-virgin olive oil.
- Process Vegetables: In a food processor, combine the onion, celery, and bell pepper (seeds removed and cut into pieces). Pulse until finely chopped.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground sirloin, chopped vegetables, beaten egg with milk, bread crumbs, and grill seasoning. In another bowl, mix the barbecue sauce, salsa, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour half of the sauce mixture into the meat mixture.
- Combine Thoroughly: Using your hands, mix the meatloaf mixture until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Fill Muffin Tin: Using an ice cream scoop, fill each muffin cup with the meat mixture. Top each with a spoonful of the remaining sauce mixture.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160 degrees F).
- Test for Doneness: Optionally, cut open one muffin to ensure it’s fully cooked in the middle.
Enjoy Your Mini Meatloaves!
Serve these meatloaf muffins hot, straight from the oven, possibly with a side of mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad for a complete meal. They are guaranteed to be a hit, offering all the flavors of traditional meatloaf packed into a quick-cooking and fun-to-eat format.
