Meatloaf Muffins with Barbecue Sauce are a fun and flavorful twist on the classic comfort food. These mini meatloaves bake faster, portion easily, and stay juicy inside with a caramelized barbecue glaze on top. Each muffin delivers a satisfying bite of tender beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings — perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or a cozy night in.
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 12 muffins
Ingredients:
1½ pounds ground beef (preferably 85% lean)
1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
½ cup milk
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 egg, lightly beaten
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¾ cup barbecue sauce, divided (½ cup for mixing, ¼ cup for topping)
2 tablespoons ketchup (optional, for added sweetness)
2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
-
Preheat oven: Set to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with foil liners for easy cleanup.
-
Prepare breadcrumb mix: In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 5 minutes so the crumbs absorb the liquid. This keeps the meatloaf moist.
-
Mix ingredients: Add ground beef, onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and ½ cup barbecue sauce to the bowl. Mix with your hands or a spoon just until combined — overmixing can make the meat tough.
-
Shape and fill: Divide the meat mixture evenly among the muffin cups, pressing lightly to shape but not compacting too tightly. Each cup should be about ¾ full.
-
Top with sauce: Spoon a small amount of the remaining barbecue sauce (mixed with ketchup, if using) on top of each muffin. Spread evenly with the back of a spoon.
-
Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, until the meat is cooked through and the tops are caramelized and slightly sticky. An instant-read thermometer should read 160°F (71°C).
-
Rest and serve: Let the muffins sit in the pan for 5 minutes, then carefully lift them out. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Nutrition (per muffin):
Calories: 210
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fat: 11g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 340mg
Tips:
For extra flavor, mix half ground beef and half ground pork or turkey.
Add a few tablespoons of shredded cheddar or mozzarella to the meat mixture for a cheesy version.
Use silicone muffin cups to make removal easier and to keep the shape neat.
You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking.
Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
