Description
Delightfully fun and kid-friendly, these Meatloaf Cupcakes offer a creative twist on a classic comfort food. Tender ground beef meatloaf baked in muffin tins and topped with creamy mashed potato “frosting” make for a visually appealing, tasty meal that’s perfect for families or parties. Customize with optional toppings like shredded cheese, parsley, ketchup drizzle, or crispy bacon bits for added flavor and flair.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Mashed Potato “Frosting”
- 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 3 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup milk or cream
- Salt, to taste
Optional Toppings
- Shredded cheese
- Chopped parsley
- Ketchup drizzle
- Crispy bacon bits
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin to prevent sticking
- Prepare Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the meat, which keeps the meatloaf tender.
- Shape and Bake Meatloaf Cupcakes: Divide the meat mixture evenly into the greased muffin tin cups, pressing down lightly to shape cupcake-sized portions. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), indicating they are fully cooked.
- Make Mashed Potato Frosting: While the meatloaf is baking, boil the peeled and cubed russet potatoes in salted water for 12 to 15 minutes until tender. Drain thoroughly and mash with butter, milk or cream, and salt to your taste until smooth and fluffy.
- Assemble Cupcakes: Once the meatloaf cupcakes are baked, spoon or pipe the mashed potatoes on top to mimic frosting. Garnish with your choice of shredded cheese, chopped parsley, ketchup drizzle, or crispy bacon bits for extra flavor and a polished look. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Mini meatloaf cupcakes make great party appetizers.
- Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use a piping bag with a large tip to pipe the mashed potato frosting neatly.
- Ensure not to overmix meat mixture to keep meatloaf tender.
- Check meat internal temperature with a meat thermometer for safe cooking.
