Beef and Vegetable Meatloaf Muffins

 

🧁 Beef and Vegetable Meatloaf Muffins: A Fun, Healthy Twist on a Comfort Food Classic

Who says meatloaf has to be boring? These Beef and Vegetable Meatloaf Muffins take everything you love about traditional meatloaf — hearty beef, savory flavor, and satisfying comfort — and pack it into individual-sized portions that are perfect for quick dinners, meal prep, lunchboxes, and even picky eaters.

Not only are these mini meatloaves delicious and family-friendly, but they’re also secretly healthy — thanks to a generous serving of hidden vegetables baked right in.

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🥩 Why You’ll Love These Meatloaf Muffins

✅ Perfectly portioned
✅ Cooks faster than a traditional meatloaf
✅ Freezer-friendly and ideal for meal prep
✅ Sneaks in nutrient-rich vegetables without compromising flavor
✅ Kid-approved and lunchbox-ready

They’re a smart, easy upgrade to the classic comfort food — with just the right amount of modern convenience.

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🛒 Ingredients

Servings: Makes about 12 muffins

• 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef

• 1 cup finely chopped vegetables (such as carrots, zucchini, bell pepper, or spinach)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup breadcrumbs or rolled oats

• 1 egg, beaten

• 2 tbsp ketchup (plus more for topping)

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or parsley, oregano, thyme)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional: shredded cheese for topping

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👩‍🍳 How to Make Meatloaf Muffins

✅ Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line with silicone baking cups for easier cleanup.

✅ Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables (Optional but Recommended)

In a small skillet, sauté the chopped veggies and onion in a bit of olive oil until softened, about 3–5 minutes. This helps bring out flavor and prevents extra moisture in the meatloaf.

✅ Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf

In a large bowl, combine:

• Ground beef

• Cooked vegetables

• Garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire, herbs, salt, and pepper

Mix just until combined — avoid over-mixing to keep the meatloaf tender.

✅ Step 4: Fill the Muffin Tin

Divide the mixture evenly among the 12 muffin cups. Press down lightly to shape.

Top each with a small spoonful of ketchup (or BBQ sauce), and if desired, a sprinkle of cheese.

✅ Step 5: Bake

Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the tops are nicely browned.

Let rest for 5 minutes before removing from the pan.

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🍽️ Serving Ideas

These meatloaf muffins are incredibly versatile! Serve them with:

• Mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash

• Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli

• Mac & cheese for a kid-friendly pairing

• A fresh salad for a lighter meal

They’re great as a main dish or can be packed cold into lunchboxes for a protein-packed meal on the go.

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❄️ Storage and Freezing Tips

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freeze: Freeze individually wrapped muffins for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick meal.

• Meal prep win: Make a double batch and always have a homemade dinner ready in minutes.

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🥕 Customize It Your Way

These meatloaf muffins are easy to tweak based on your preferences or what’s in your fridge:

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken

• Use sweet potatoes or mushrooms for added depth

• Add grated cheese into the mix for melty flavor

• Make them spicy with a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes

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❤️ Final Thoughts

Beef and Vegetable Meatloaf Muffins are the perfect combination of comfort food and convenience, ideal for families, busy weeknights, and anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing taste. Packed with flavor and full of hidden veggies, they’re proof that good food can be both wholesome and fun.