Mini Meatloaves Recipe

Mini Meatloaves Recipe

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Mini Meatloafs with Ketchup Glaze

This recipe yields 8 servings and is perfect for a family meal or a fun twist on traditional meatloaf. Here's how to prepare it:

Ingredients

  • 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
  • cup milk
  • cup quick cooking oats
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • cup ketchup
  • cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoons prepared mustard

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: In a large bowl, stir together the shredded Cheddar cheese, milk, oats, egg, and salt.

Step 3: Add the ground beef to the bowl and mix well until fully combined.

Step 4: Form the meat mixture into 8 individual mini meatloafs and place them in the prepared baking dish.

Step 5: In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Stir until the mixture is smooth.

Step 6: Spread the ketchup glaze evenly over the top of each mini meatloaf.

Step 7: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the meatloafs are cooked through. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 160F (72C).

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

  • Calories: 255
  • Total Fat: 14g (18% Daily Value)
  • Saturated Fat: 7g (34% Daily Value)
  • Cholesterol: 74mg (25% Daily Value)
  • Sodium: 656mg (29% Daily Value)
  • Total Carbohydrate: 17g (6% Daily Value)
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g (2% Daily Value)
  • Total Sugars: 13g
  • Protein: 15g (30% Daily Value)
  • Vitamin C: 3mg (3% Daily Value)
  • Calcium: 149mg (11% Daily Value)
  • Iron: 2mg (8% Daily Value)
  • Potassium: 248mg (5% Daily Value)

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Important: If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

Mini meatloaves are a twist on the classic meatloaf, offering individual servings of ground beef, oats, cheese, and a tangy glaze. This fun, easy-to-make recipe is popular for its quick cooking time and flavorful results, perfect for family meals or meal prepping. But theres more to mini meatloaf than just its tasty appeallet's dive into its origins, regional variations, and the fascinating facts that make it a kitchen favorite.

History of Mini Meatloaf

Meatloaf has a long history in American cuisine, tracing its roots back to the early 19th century when ground meats were commonly used for both economical and practical reasons. The mini version of this dish, while seemingly modern, likely evolved from the traditional meatloaf as cooks sought ways to make meal preparation more convenient and portion-controlled. It became especially popular in the mid-20th century, as the rise of convenience foods and family dinners made this easy-to-make dish a staple in homes across the United States.

Regional Variations of Mini Meatloaves

Across the U.S., the standard meatloaf recipe varies by region, with different ingredients, seasonings, and preparation methods reflecting local tastes. For instance, in the South, meatloaf is often seasoned with spicy ingredients like cayenne or Tabasco sauce, while in the Northeast, it's common to add breadcrumbs or potatoes for extra texture. The mini meatloaf, as a smaller and more convenient option, has been embraced everywhere, with regional adaptations often including different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or Mozzarella, and varying glazes. Some people use ketchup, while others prefer a sweet-and-sour sauce or barbecue glaze, depending on regional preferences.

What Makes Mini Meatloaf Different?

Mini meatloaf distinguishes itself from its larger counterpart primarily through portion control and faster cooking times. Traditional meatloaf is usually baked in a loaf pan and takes longer to cook, while mini meatloaves are individually sized, ensuring they cook more quickly and evenly. This makes them perfect for busy families or meal prepping. Additionally, mini meatloaves are easier to serve and can be customized to individual tastes, such as adding extra cheese or different herbs for each person. The use of oats in the recipe also gives the meatloaf a slightly different texture compared to more traditional recipes that may rely solely on breadcrumbs or other binders.

Where Are Mini Meatloaves Typically Served?

Mini meatloaves are commonly served in family homes, especially for dinner or as a part of a larger meal. Their single-serving size makes them ideal for children or for those who prefer having their own portion. They are often featured at casual gatherings or dinner parties, where they can be easily shared or served as part of a buffet-style meal. Additionally, mini meatloaves are perfect for lunchboxes or meal prep, as they store and reheat well, making them a great option for busy individuals looking to enjoy a homemade meal on the go.

Interesting Facts About Mini Meatloaf

  • The concept of individual serving sizes in mini meatloaf is believed to have become popular in the 1950s, as modern convenience kitchens and new cooking appliances like the microwave started to change how people prepared food.
  • While ground beef is the most common meat used in mini meatloaf recipes, you can also use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based proteins to make a healthier or vegetarian version.
  • Some cooks add a surprise ingredient in the middle of the mini meatloaf, such as a chunk of cheese or a spoonful of tomato sauce, for an unexpected burst of flavor.
  • Mini meatloaves are often served with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side of greens, balancing out the richness of the meat.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with your own variations, mini meatloaves remain a beloved dish in American kitchens for their versatility, ease of preparation, and comforting taste.

FAQ about Mini Meatloaves Recipe

Store any leftover mini meatloaves in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them for about 1-2 minutes, depending on the size.

Yes, you can freeze mini meatloaves. To freeze, allow them to cool completely, then wrap each mini meatloaf individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.

Yes, you can make the mini meatloaves without cheese. If you prefer a dairy-free version, simply omit the cheese or substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative. The texture and flavor will be slightly different, but it should still turn out delicious.

Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef in this recipe. The meatloaf will be leaner, but the recipe will still work well. Just be aware that the texture might be a little drier, so you might want to add an extra tablespoon of milk or some extra moisture.

If you don’t have quick oats, you can substitute them with regular rolled oats, breadcrumbs, or even crushed crackers. Keep in mind that the texture might change slightly depending on the substitute you use.

If the meat mixture is too wet, it could be due to using too much milk or if the oats haven't absorbed enough liquid. Letting the oat mixture sit for a few minutes before mixing it with the ground beef can help absorb excess moisture. On the other hand, if the mixture is too dry, you can add a little more milk to get the desired consistency.

If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of brown sugar or replace it with a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit. Alternatively, you can increase the mustard for a tangier flavor to balance the sweetness.

Yes, using a muffin tin is a great alternative for individual portions. Simply spray the muffin tin with cooking spray and bake for the same amount of time, or adjust the time slightly if needed. Muffin tins also create a crispy exterior and make it easier to serve.

To ensure the mini meatloaves are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the center of the meatloaf – it should reach at least 160°F (72°C). This will ensure the meat is cooked safely without being overdone.

Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Simply double the ingredients and either bake the mini meatloaves in two separate dishes or use a larger baking dish. The cooking time should remain about the same, but be sure to check for doneness with a meat thermometer.

Comments

JAIMEXX21

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

My husband wanted meatloaf for dinner so I got online to see what I could find....THIS WAS AWESOME!! I used a muffin pan like others had suggested. I like the individual serving sizes except my husband ate 9 outta 12 meatloaf muffins!!! So much for lunch tomorrow.... I stuck pretty close to original recipe but added Ms Dash's 1/2 tsp onion medley and cut back to 1/2 tsp salt. Also was just under 1/2 cup of oats so I added some italian bread crumbs too. Put about 1/4 cup chopped onions and had to add Worcester sauce cuz I love it! This really was easy to make and has me looking forward to the next time we can eat meatloaf! Thanks Tonya!!!

Allrecipes Member

09/19/2004 08:19:12 PM

I wanted to try this recipe for several reasons - it has a ketchup/brown sugar topping like the recipe that my husband prefers and it was highly rated. I would never have thought of putting OATMEAL and CHEESE in meatloaf! It was SO good. The thing that absolutely made this recipe the best was the texture - and I guess that is attributed to the oatmeal and cheese! The only thing I did differently was put a dash of garlic powder in and use my Pampered Chef Mini-Loaf pan to do four loaves. One suggestion for those who are finding it to be too "wet". Let the oatmeal/egg/milk mixture sit for a few minutes so the oatmeal can absorb some of the liquid before you combine with the meat. YUM! This is going to be my permanent meatloaf recipe!

CATALOGRRR

02/25/2003 06:33:24 AM

Very good and tasty. Instead of forming them into individual loaves as suggested in the recipe, I used a muffin pan that I sprayed with PAM. The cooking time was the same and it was easier, too.

LongIslandborn

10/13/2005 05:49:17 AM

I wanted to try a new Meatloaf recipe other then my Mom's. I saw this recipe, and it was close to hers, but a little different (quick oats, sauce, no onion). So, I made it exactly as the recipe called for, BUT added one large chopped onion (meatloaf isn't meatloaf without onion). I found a NEW recipe. This meatloaf recipe is BETTER then Moms. My kids were licking their plates. I can't get the taste out of my mouth. It was fantastic. I already sent the recipe to my sister in law, to feed to her finicky kids. I think they'll even like it. I don't think anyone who tries this would be disappointed.

Christy Gofron

02/02/2008 05:51:30 PM

This was really REALLY good!! After reading alot of the reviews, this is how I changed it a bit. I did use the muffin tin sprayed with cooking spray which yielded 10 mini meatloaves after a perfect 45 minutes in the oven. I let the oats, milk and cheese sit for a few minutes to soften the oats a bit. I also added 1 tsp garlic powder and 1/2 tsp onion powder to the milk/oats/cheese mix. For the topping I used dijon mustard - that countered the sweetness just right and made the perfect topping! This recipe is top notch!! My husband - the avowed meatloaf hater - ate SIX of them (and yes he was moaning on the couch afterward). That's a winner in my book!

Mary Jo

11/01/2018 10:29:08 PM

I did as others suggested and mixed the eggs, cheese, milk, oats, & salt in a large bowl & let it sit for about 15 minutes. In the meantime, I placed diced onions & jalapeño peppers in a bit of butter and microwaved in a bowl for a few minutes until softened. I drained off the butter & cooled. I stirred the cooled peppers & onions into the cheese and oat mixture and then added the ground beef. I formed my beef mixture into four loaves, added the glaze, and baked all four in a glass baking dish for 60 minutes. This recipe was very very good, moist and flavorful. Also very easy to put together with on hand ingredients. My husband loved this meat loaf, & leftovers were great!

AJ Huntington

01/21/2020 03:15:28 AM

Like many others, I used a cupcake tin to make it easier to portion out and the amount worked really well for my family. Adding some garlic and onion powder helped with the flavoring and I added a bit of steak sauce to the glaze just for taste. Overall it was good, and without the onion, it was a winner with picky eaters too. Will likely make it again.

Debbie

12/01/2020 10:53:38 PM

This has been my go-to meatloaf recipe for years. I cut the milk back to 1/4 cup (too soupy otherwise) and added garlic powder and onion powder (or minced onion) as others suggested. I shape it into one loaf.

Trina Hawkinson

12/04/2023 05:08:23 AM

my hubby and my son raved about them. Only thing I did add was mozz cheese I stuffed in the middle and I also used a sprayed muffin pan, so good!

Im2bz

05/18/2020 10:10:42 PM

I liked this, but did change a few things. I used panko instead of oats, since that was what I had on hand. I liked the texture, and would definitely use the panko again. I also baked the meatloaves in a muffin tin, as others has suggested (totally fun idea!) I will make changes next time I make this, such as adding pepper, sauteed onions, and garlic to the meat mixture (it is a bit bland). I will also increase the mustard and decrease the brown sugar in the sauce.

Susana Magalhaes Burgess

04/15/2019 05:38:27 PM

My go to recipe. I always double up, I use a meatloaf pan and ground turkey and make 2 big ones, not the little ones. I cook it at 365 for 50min to 1 hour (1 pound of meat per loaf), one loaf at a time. I use mozzarella or whatever cheese I have in the fridge. I serve it with white rice and butternut squash or just squash. It’s the perfect pair.

Peter Mason

08/23/2025 01:14:02 PM

Has been a family favorite for about 20 years now!

Hailey

07/20/2025 10:52:51 PM

A lot of liquid, sauce too sweet, oatmeal changed the texture too much for my liking and putting it in the 9x13 was a mistake I knew I shouldn’t have made. Will be tweaking so much it couldn’t even be considered this recipe anymore.

BAR

06/11/2025 08:08:57 PM

Good basic recipe. I use Panko instead of oatmeal. Add a little little A1 sauce, diced onions and jar chop garlic. For the meat, I used Half-and-half, ground beef, and Jimmy Dean regular sausage in the tube. I just formed little mini meatloafs put them on the little oven sheet and cook them in my emeril countertop oven. My husband likes the extra flavor of added items. I did not put any cheese in as I find it makes it more difficult to slice and stay together

Diane Cullum

06/02/2025 11:05:10 PM

Finally made this recipe that’s been in my box for ages. Yum! My parents loved it, especially my daddy who is a meatloaf snob. 😂 Mom thought there was too much sauce even though I didn’t use all of it. I added some chopped onions and made four mini loaves, baking them for 45 minutes. There was lots of extra sauce to add to our plates, but dad was the only one who added more. I’ll definitely have to make them for my dh!

Lisa Rivera

04/16/2025 10:49:01 PM

So cozy, I’ll make it every week.

CoolUbe6635

03/30/2025 10:16:38 PM

Easy, moist and tasty. My husband likes onions, so I added those. I'll make again.

Justin King

03/20/2025 01:31:02 PM

Made it for lunch — gone in minutes.

SilkyChip8812

03/12/2025 08:35:36 PM

One of the kids’ absolute favorites! They cheer when I announce we’re having mini meatloaves for dinner.

Cindy

12/20/2024 08:13:12 PM

It was so easy to make. I didn't glaze it as I am cooking for 3 very picky men. It was so moist and tender. It will be a favorite as they all loved it. I doubled the recipe. The guys requested pepper and garlic added next time. Thanks for this one!!!