Mini Meatloaves Recipe

Mini meatloaves are a delightful twist on the classic comfort food, offering a convenient and flavorful meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions. These bite-sized loaves are packed with rich flavors from ground meats, spices, and a tangy ketchup-based glaze, making them a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. The cultural significance of meatloaf lies in its nostalgic appeal, often evoking memories of family dinners and home-cooked meals. By miniaturizing this beloved dish, you can enjoy the same hearty flavors in a fraction of the time, making it an ideal choice for busy households.

Ingredients

• (at least 80% lean)
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1/2 cup Original Bisquick™ mix
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1/4 cup)
• 1 egg
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup of the ketchup and the brown sugar. Reserve this mixture for topping the meatloaves.
3. Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, Bisquick mix, remaining ketchup, onion, egg, pepper, salt, Worcestershire sauce (if using), and parsley (if using). Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Shape Meatloaves: Spray a 13×9-inch pan with cooking spray. Place the meat mixture in the pan and shape into a 12×4-inch rectangle. Cut lengthwise down the center and then crosswise into sixths to form 12 mini loaves. Use a spatula to separate the loaves so they don’t touch each other.
5. Top with Glaze: Brush the tops of the meatloaves with the reserved ketchup and brown sugar mixture.
6. Bake: Bake the mini meatloaves for 18 to 20 minutes or until they are no longer pink in the center and a meat thermometer reads 160°F (71°C).

Top Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh flavor to the meatloaves.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the ingredients just until they come together to avoid dense meatloaves.
• Customize the Glaze: Experiment with different glaze flavors by adding a bit of BBQ sauce or honey.
• Freeze Ahead: Prepare the meat mixture and shape the loaves, then freeze them for up to a month. Bake frozen loaves for an additional 5-10 minutes.
• Pair with Sides: Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Monitor Temperature: Ensure the meatloaves reach a safe internal temperature to avoid undercooking.

Variations

• Italian-Style: Add some Italian seasoning and grated Parmesan cheese to the meat mixture for a Mediterranean twist.
• Spicy: Mix in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• BBQ-Inspired: Replace the ketchup glaze with a BBQ sauce-based glaze for a smoky flavor.
• Veggie-Loaded: Add finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture for added flavor and nutrients.
• Breakfast Meatloaf: Use ground sausage instead of beef and add some diced bacon for a breakfast-inspired meatloaf.
• Greek-Style: Mix in some feta cheese and chopped olives for a Greek twist.

Nutritional Guide

Additional Nutritional Notes: These mini meatloaves are a good source of protein and can be paired with vegetables or whole grains to increase their nutritional value. The use of lean ground beef and pork helps keep the fat content moderate. Consider reducing the amount of sugar in the glaze for a healthier option.