If you’re on the hunt for a dish that brings comfort and nostalgia to the dinner table, look no further than the Best Meatloaf Recipe Ever (Mini Meatloaf Recipe). This recipe takes the classic meatloaf and transforms it into perfectly portioned mini loaves that are not only delightful in presentation but also bursting with flavor. With a blend of ground turkey and beef chuck, aromatic vegetables, and a touch of spices, you’ll find that these mini meatloaves are a fantastic option for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead.
What Makes This Recipe Special
The beauty of this Best Meatloaf Recipe Ever (Mini Meatloaf Recipe) lies in its versatility and balance of flavors. Each mini loaf is a perfect size for individual servings, making it easier to serve and enjoy. The combination of ground turkey and beef chuck creates a juicy texture, while the mix of seasonings and veggies adds depth and nutrition. Plus, the inclusion of chili sauce and balsamic vinegar lends a slightly sweet and tangy glaze that elevates every bite.
What’s in the Bowl
To create these delicious mini meatloaves, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups seasoned bread crumbs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
- 1/2 onion, roughly chopped
- 1 carrot, roughly chopped
- 1 celery stalk, roughly chopped
- 1/2 red bell pepper, roughly chopped
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef chuck
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup chili sauce (like Heinz)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons honey
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Equipment at a Glance
Before you start cooking, gather the following equipment to make your meatloaf-making experience smooth and enjoyable:
- Mixing bowl – for combining your meatloaf ingredients.
- Loaf pan or muffin tin – for shaping your mini meatloaves.
- Food processor or knife – for chopping your veggies.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accurate ingredient portions.
- Baking sheet – for catching any drips if using a loaf pan.
Method: Best Meatloaf Recipe Ever (Mini Meatloaf Recipe)
Now that you have everything prepped and ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step method for creating these irresistible mini meatloaves.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf cooks evenly and thoroughly.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
In a food processor, combine the onion, carrot, celery, red bell pepper, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped. This not only helps incorporate these veggies into the meatloaf but also adds moisture and flavor.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, ground beef chuck, seasoned bread crumbs, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, caraway seeds, thyme, chopped vegetables, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, chili sauce, balsamic vinegar, honey, and ground cumin. Mix gently until all ingredients are well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough meatloaf.
Step 4: Shape the Meatloaf
Using your hands, form the mixture into mini loaves, about the size of a small fist. If using a muffin tin, press the mixture evenly into each cup.
Step 5: Bake
Place the shaped mini meatloaves on a baking sheet or in the muffin tin and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The tops should be golden brown and slightly caramelized.
Step 6: Glaze and Finish
In the last 5 minutes of baking, brush a little extra chili sauce on top of each mini meatloaf for a sticky, sweet glaze. Return to the oven to caramelize.
Step 7: Let It Rest
Once cooked, remove the mini meatloaves from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful bite.
Make It Fit Your Plan
This Best Meatloaf Recipe Ever (Mini Meatloaf Recipe) is flexible and can be adapted to meet various dietary preferences or ingredient availability. Here are some ideas:
- Swap ground turkey for ground chicken or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter option.
- Use gluten-free bread crumbs to make this dish suitable for those avoiding gluten.
- Add in your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini or mushrooms, to boost the nutrition.
- Experiment with different spices or sauces to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
Testing Timeline
To ensure your mini meatloaves are perfectly cooked, refer to the following timeline:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 25-30 minutes
- Resting time: 5 minutes
Storage & Reheat Guide
If you have leftovers (which is unlikely since these are so delicious!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, wrap individual meatloaves tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
Questions People Ask
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape the mini loaves a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. This is a great time-saver for busy weeknights!
What can I serve with mini meatloaf?
Mini meatloaves pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. You can also try them with Honey Garlic Glazed Meatloaf Minis With Cheesy Mash for a delightful twist.
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! Feel free to substitute the ground turkey or beef with ground pork or a blend of your favorite meats. Each will impart a unique flavor to your meatloaf.
How do I know when the mini meatloaves are done?
The best way to check for doneness is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Try These Next
If you loved this Best Meatloaf Recipe Ever (Mini Meatloaf Recipe), you might also enjoy:
- Garlic Herb Chicken Meatloaf With Mashed Potatoes
- Honey Garlic Glazed Meatloaf Minis With Cheesy Mash
Wrap-Up
The Best Meatloaf Recipe Ever (Mini Meatloaf Recipe) is a culinary delight that’s sure to become a staple in your home. With its tender texture, rich flavors, and customizable ingredients, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, these mini meatloaves are both satisfying and convenient. Enjoy each delicious bite, and let your taste buds rejoice!
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Best Meatloaf Recipe Ever (Mini Meatloaf Recipe)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: In a food processor, combine the onion, carrot, celery, red bell pepper, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, ground beef chuck, seasoned bread crumbs, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, caraway seeds, thyme, chopped vegetables, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, chili sauce, balsamic vinegar, honey, and ground cumin. Mix gently.
- Step 4: Using your hands, form the mixture into mini loaves.
- Step 5: Place the shaped mini meatloaves on a baking sheet or in muffin tin and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Step 6: In the last 5 minutes, brush extra chili sauce on top for a glaze.
- Step 7: Let the mini meatloaves rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to swap turkey for chicken or a plant-based alternative.
- Use gluten-free bread crumbs for a gluten-free version.
- Add in your favorite veggies for extra nutrition.
