Pro Tips and Variations
For the best texture, use lean or medium‑lean ground beef; if your meat is very fatty, you can place a baking sheet on the rack below the muffin tin to catch drips. If you want a classic meatloaf “glaze,” you can brush the tops of the muffins with extra ketchup or a ketchup‑brown sugar mixture for the last 5–10 minutes of baking.
To make the mashed potatoes easier to pipe, keep them on the stiffer side and avoid adding too much milk; if they’re too loose, they’ll slump. For extra flavor, stir grated cheddar, roasted garlic, or a spoonful of sour cream into the potatoes. You can also garnish with crispy bacon bits along with the herbs.
Storage and Make-Ahead
These mini meatloaf muffins are great for meal prep and freezing. Once they’ve cooled, I store them (without the potato topping) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. The mashed potatoes can be stored separately and rewarmed, or made fresh when reheating the muffins.
For freezing, I let the meatloaf muffins cool completely, then freeze them on a baking sheet until firm and transfer to a freezer bag or container; they keep for up to about 3 months. To reheat, I thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat from frozen in the oven or microwave until hot throughout. I add fresh mashed potato frosting and garnish just before serving for the best texture.
FAQ
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, instant mashed potatoes work fine for the frosting and are a good shortcut, especially if you’re serving a crowd. Just make them a bit thicker so they pipe or spoon nicely.
How do I keep the meatloaf from shrinking too much?
Avoid overworking the meat mixture and don’t pack it too tightly in the muffin cups; gentle pressing is enough. Using a moderate oven temperature and not overbaking also helps keep the muffins juicy and plump.
Is ground turkey a good substitute?
Ground turkey or chicken can be used, but they’re leaner and can dry out more easily. You may want to add a bit more milk or a tablespoon of olive oil and watch the bake time closely.
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