Mini Meatloaf Recipe for Freeze and Store

In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of making delicious and freezable mini meatloaf cups. These savory muffins are made with lean ground beef, garlic, onion, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Additionally, we’ll show you how to prepare a secret sauce to enhance the flavor of the meatloaf muffins. The end result is a delightful and convenient dish that you can prepare ahead of time and enjoy anytime you crave a tasty meal.

Ingredients You Need

Before we get started, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 pound (1/2 kilo) of lean ground beef
• 3 cloves of finely chopped garlic
• 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup bread crumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create scrumptious mini meatloaf cups:

1. Prepare the Secret Sauce
   • In a bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper. Stir until well combined. This flavorful sauce will be added to the meatloaf muffins during the baking process, enhancing their taste.
2. Combine Ingredients
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, finely chopped garlic, and finely chopped onion. Add 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs, 1 large egg, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of pepper. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
3. Grease the Muffin Tray
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the desired temperature for baking the mini meatloaf cups.
   • Grease a muffin tray using cooking spray or a light coat of oil. This will prevent the meatloaf cups from sticking to the tray during baking.
4. Scoop the Meatloaf Mixture
   • Use an ice cream scoop or a spoon to portion the meatloaf mixture into the greased muffin tray. Fill each cup to the top, ensuring uniformity in size.
5. Add the Secret Sauce
   • Take the prepared secret sauce and drizzle a spoonful over each meatloaf cup. The sauce will add a tangy and flavorful element to the dish.
6. Bake the Meatloaf Cups
   • Place the muffin tray in the preheated oven and bake the meatloaf cups for approximately 20 minutes or until they are fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) to ensure they are safe to eat.
7. Cool and Store
   • Once the meatloaf cups are cooked, allow them to cool slightly before transferring them to a wire rack. Once completely cooled, store the meatloaf muffins in sealable containers for freezing.

Mini Meatloaf Cups Freeze and Store

Freezing Instructions

These mini meatloaf cups are perfect for meal prepping. Here’s how to freeze them:

1. Cool the Meatloaf Cups
   • Before freezing, ensure that the meatloaf cups have cooled to room temperature to avoid condensation in the containers.
2. Pack in Sealable Containers
   • Place the cooled meatloaf cups in airtight and freezer-safe containers. Make sure to leave some space for expansion during freezing. Label the containers with the name and date of freezing to keep track of freshness.
3. Freeze
   • Put the containers in the freezer and freeze for up to 3 months.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef? Yes, you can substitute lean ground beef with lean ground turkey for a healthier option. The cooking instructions remain the same.
2. Can I Freeze the Meatloaf Cups Without the Sauce? Absolutely! You can freeze the meatloaf cups without the sauce. Simply follow the freezing instructions provided after baking.
3. How Do I Reheat the Frozen Meatloaf Cups? To reheat the frozen meatloaf cups, thaw them in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes. Then, microwave on medium heat for 2-3 minutes until they are heated through.
4. Can I Add Veggies to the Meatloaf Mixture? Yes, you can add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the meatloaf mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
5. What Other Sauces Can I Use? While the secret sauce is delicious, you can experiment with your favorite sauces or glazes to customize the taste.
6. Are These Meatloaf Cups Suitable for Kids? Absolutely! Kids love these mini meatloaf cups, and they make a fantastic lunchbox option.

Making mini meatloaf cups is a delightful and convenient way to enjoy a savory meal. This step-by-step guide has provided you with all the information you need to create this delicious dish from scratch. Remember to customize the recipe to your liking and get creative with the sauces and additional ingredients you use. These mini meatloaf cups are perfect for families, parties, or even a quick and satisfying solo dinner.