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Delicious Meatloaf Muffins served on a plate with fresh herbs.
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5 from 1 vote

Meatloaf Muffins

Creamy, juicy, and perfectly comforting — meatloaf muffins are everything you love about classic meatloaf, made faster and cuter in a muffin tin.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time22 minutes
Total Time37 minutes
Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Easy
Servings: 8 muffins

Equipment

  • Muffin Tin
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Food Processor

Ingredients

Meat Ingredients

  • 1.75 pounds Ground Sirloin Room temperature if possible

Vegetable Ingredients

  • 1 medium Onion Cut into chunks
  • 2 ribs Celery Cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 large Green Bell Pepper Cut in half and seeds removed

Binding Ingredients

  • 1 large Egg Beaten with a splash of milk
  • 1 cup Plain Bread Crumbs
  • 2 tablespoons Grill Seasoning Recommended: Montreal Steak Seasoning by McCormick

Sauce Ingredients

  • 1 cup Smoky Barbecue Sauce
  • 1/2 cup Tomato Salsa
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce

Oil

  • 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil For brushing the muffin tin

Instructions

  • Step 1: Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F and lightly brush a standard muffin tin with vegetable oil or extra-virgin olive oil so the muffins release easily.
  • Step 2: Chop the onion, celery, and green bell pepper finely. You can use a food processor for speed — pulse until evenly chopped but not pureed.
  • Step 3: In a large mixing bowl combine the ground sirloin, chopped onion, chopped celery, and chopped bell pepper.
  • Step 4: Add the beaten egg (with a splash of milk), 1 cup plain bread crumbs, and 2 tablespoons grill seasoning to the meat bowl.
  • Step 5: In a separate small bowl whisk together 1 cup smoky barbecue sauce, 1/2 cup tomato salsa, and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce.
  • Step 6: Pour half of that sauce mixture into the meat mixture. Use your hands to gently mix everything until just combined — avoid overworking the meat to keep muffins tender.
  • Step 7: Using an ice cream scoop or large spoon, fill each prepared muffin cup with the meat mixture, packing lightly so each cup is evenly filled.
  • Step 8: Spoon the remaining sauce over the top of each muffin to glaze. This will caramelize in the oven and create a sticky, flavorful finish.
  • Step 9: Bake at 450 degrees F for about 18–22 minutes. Check one muffin by inserting a knife or instant-read thermometer into the center; the meat should be cooked through (internal temperature 160 F for ground beef) and juices should run clear.
  • Step 10: Let the muffins rest in the tin for 5 minutes before using a small spatula or fork to remove them. Serve warm.

Notes

These meatloaf muffins are a speedy, family-friendly twist on a classic comfort dish — easy to make, easy to portion, and full of smoky, savory flavor.