Name: Meatloaf Cupcakes Recipe
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Meatloaf Cupcakes:; 1 lb Ground Beef; 2 carrots; 1 yellow onion; 2 eggs; ¼ cup ketchup; 1 cup breadcrumb; 1 cup parmesan cheese; 2 garlic cloves; 2 tbsp parsley; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp pepper; For Mashed Potato Frosting:; 2 russet potatoes; 1 tsp salt; 1 tbsp butter; ½ cup milk; parsley

There's something about a classic meatloaf that's always endearing, especially when it's miniaturized into meatloaf cupcakes. This unique twist on a traditional comfort food not only adds a fun element to your meal but also makes portion control a breeze. Topped with creamy mashed potato 'frosting', these meatloaf cupcakes are as tasty as they are adorable. Ideal for parties, kids' meals, or just a fun dinner at home.

Photos of Meatloaf Cupcakes Recipe

Most of these ingredients are likely already in your kitchen. However, make sure you have breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese for the meatloaf mix. These not only help to bind the meatloaf together but also add a depth of flavor that makes these cupcakes truly irresistible. For the mashed potato 'frosting', Russet potatoes are recommended as they are starchy and fluffy, making them ideal for mashing.

Meatloaf Cupcakes and Mashed Potato Frosting Ingredients

Ground beef: The main ingredient for the meatloaf. Choose a lean cut to keep the cupcakes from becoming too greasy.

Carrots: Adds a touch of sweetness and color to the meatloaf.

Yellow onion: Gives the meatloaf a savory flavor.

Eggs: Acts as a binder to hold the meatloaf mixture together.

Ketchup: Adds a tangy sweetness to the meatloaf.

Breadcrumb: Helps to bind the meatloaf and adds a bit of texture.

Parmesan cheese: Enhances the flavor of the meatloaf.

Garlic cloves: Adds a rich, robust flavor to the meatloaf.

Parsley: Adds freshness and color to the meatloaf and mashed potato frosting.

Russet potatoes: Starchy and fluffy, ideal for making creamy mashed potato frosting.

Butter: Adds creaminess to the mashed potatoes.

Milk: Loosens up the potatoes for a creamier consistency.

One reader, Dulce Utley says:

I recently tried the meatloaf cupcakes recipe and it was a delightful surprise! The individual portions were not only cute but also incredibly tasty. The mashed potato frosting added a unique touch. It's a fun and delicious twist on traditional meatloaf that I highly recommend trying.

Dulce Utley

Mastering the Art of Making Meatloaf Cupcakes

How to prepare meatloaf cupcakes: Mix together ground beef, carrots, onion, eggs, ketchup, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Fill muffin liners with the meatloaf mixture and bake until cooked through.

How to make mashed potato frosting: Boil potatoes until fork-tender, then drain and mash with butter and milk. Transfer the mashed potatoes to a ziplock bag and pipe onto the meatloaf cupcakes to resemble frosting. Sprinkle with parsley.

How To Make Meatloaf Cupcakes

A step out of the ordinary, these meatloaf cupcakes are made with ground beef, carrots, and a mashed potatoes frosting. Very inventive and flavorful!

Preparation:

Cooking: 40 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Meatloaf Cupcakes:

1lbground beef
2carrots,grated
1yellow onion,grated
2eggs
¼cupketchup
1cupbreadcrumb
1cupparmesan cheese,grated
2garlic cloves,minced
2tbspparsley,fresh chopped
1tspsalt
½tsppepper

For Mashed Potato Frosting:

2russet potatoes,peeled and cubed
1tspsalt
1tbspbutter
½cupmilk
parsley,fresh for topping

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
In a bowl, mix together the meatloaf ingredients.
Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
Fill the muffin liners with the meatloaf mixture and pat down to form a dome.
Bake meatloaf cupcakes for about 25 to 30 minutes or until cooked through.
In a saucepan over medium heat, add the potatoes, water to cover the potatoes, and salt.
Bring potatoes to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover.
Simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes or until potatoes are fork-tender.
Drain the water and add in the butter and milk.
Mash the potatoes with a fork until smooth then transfer to a ziplock bag.
Pipe the potatoes onto each meatloaf cupcake to resemble frosting. Sprinkle with parsley.

Nutrition

Calories: 505.03kcal
Fat: 26.61g
Saturated Fat: 12.11g
Trans Fat: 0.98g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.95g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.37g
Carbohydrates: 36.97g
Fiber: 3.05g
Sugar: 6.92g
Protein: 29.19g
Cholesterol: 130.97mg
Sodium: 682.93mg
Calcium: 403.86mg
Potassium: 803.92mg
Iron: 3.94mg
Vitamin A: 292.91µg
Vitamin C: 13.70mg

Expert Advice for Perfecting Your Meatloaf Cupcakes

When preparing the meatloaf cupcakes, it's important to pack the meatloaf mixture firmly into the muffin liners. This will ensure that the cupcakes hold their shape during baking. Additionally, when making the mashed potato frosting, ensure the potatoes are thoroughly drained before mashing. Any excess water can make the frosting too runny and it won't hold its shape when piped onto the cupcakes. For a smoother texture, consider using a potato ricer or food mill instead of a fork to mash the potatoes.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Multitask: While the meatloaf cupcakes are baking, prepare the mashed potato frosting to save time.

Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly chop the carrots, onions, and garlic for the meatloaf mixture.

One-pan cooking: Consider using a muffin tin with silicone liners for easy cleanup and convenience.

Leftover makeover: Use leftover mashed potatoes from a previous meal to top the meatloaf cupcakes for a quick and easy option.

Substitute Ingredients For Meatloaf Cupcakes Recipe

ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be used as a healthier alternative to ground beef in the meatloaf cupcakes recipe.
ketchup - Substitute with barbecue sauce: Barbecue sauce can add a smoky and tangy flavor to the meatloaf cupcakes, providing a different dimension of taste compared to ketchup.
russet potatoes - Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes can be used to create a unique and slightly sweet mashed potato frosting, adding a different flavor profile to the dish.

Creative Ways to Serve Mini Meatloaves

Elevate the meatloaf: Instead of traditional meatloaf, consider using high-quality ground beef and parmesan cheese to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
Garnish with precision: Carefully place finely chopped parsley on top of the mashed potato frosting to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the dish.
Create a symmetrical arrangement: Arrange the meatloaf cupcakes on the plate in a circular pattern, ensuring they are evenly spaced and visually appealing.
Utilize negative space: Leave some empty space on the plate to allow the meatloaf cupcakes to stand out and be the focal point of the dish.
Incorporate height: Pipe the mashed potato frosting onto the meatloaf cupcakes in a way that creates a beautiful, lofty peak, adding visual interest and elegance to the presentation.
Add a touch of sophistication: Consider serving the meatloaf cupcakes on a sleek, modern plate to elevate the overall presentation and appeal to the discerning palates of the culinary professionals.

Essential Kitchen Gadgets for Making Meatloaf Cupcakes

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for quickly and efficiently preparing the carrots, onions, and garlic for the meatloaf cupcakes.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the ground beef, eggs, ketchup, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and seasonings to create the meatloaf mixture. It's also useful for mixing the mashed potatoes for the frosting.

Preserving and Freezing Meatloaf Cupcakes for Later

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for the meatloaf cupcakes recipe:

Allow the meatloaf cupcakes to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent them from becoming soggy and help maintain their shape.
To store in the refrigerator:
- Place the cooled meatloaf cupcakes in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, place the cupcakes on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
To freeze:
- Wrap each cooled meatloaf cupcake individually in plastic wrap, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
- Place the wrapped cupcakes in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, label with the date, and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat frozen meatloaf cupcakes, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Once thawed, place the cupcakes on a baking sheet and reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
For best results, store the mashed potatoes separately from the meatloaf cupcakes. Prepare fresh mashed potatoes when ready to serve the reheated cupcakes.
If you have leftover mashed potatoes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

The Best Methods for Reheating Leftover Meatloaf Cupcakes

To reheat leftover meatloaf cupcakes, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cupcakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover the cupcakes loosely with another piece of foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil cover for the last 5 minutes of reheating to crisp up the top of the mashed potato frosting.
Another option is to reheat the meatloaf cupcakes in the microwave. Place one or two cupcakes on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. This will help keep the cupcakes moist during reheating. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the cupcakes to become tough and rubbery.
For a crispy exterior and a moist interior, try reheating the meatloaf cupcakes in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the cupcakes in the basket, leaving some space between each one. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.
If you want to reheat the meatloaf cupcakes while maintaining the shape and texture of the mashed potato frosting, use a steamer. Fill a pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a simmer. Place the cupcakes in a steamer basket above the water, making sure they don't touch the water directly. Cover the pot and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until the cupcakes are heated through.
For a quick and easy reheating method, use a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the meatloaf cupcakes on the wire rack. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. Keep an eye on the cupcakes to ensure the mashed potato frosting doesn't brown too much.

Surprising Trivia About Meatloaf Cupcakes

Meatloaf cupcakes are a fun and creative way to enjoy a classic dish. They are perfect for portion control and make a great appetizer or snack. Plus, the mashed potato frosting adds a unique twist to the traditional meatloaf recipe.

Budget-Friendly: Making Meatloaf Cupcakes at Home

This meatloaf cupcakes recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Ground beef, carrots, onions, and potatoes are affordable staples. The use of simple ingredients makes it budget-friendly. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15. The versatility of the ingredients also allows for variations, making it suitable for different tastes and preferences. Overall Verdict: 8.

Is This Comfort Food Recipe Healthy or Not?

The meatloaf cupcakes recipe, while creative and visually appealing, may not be the healthiest option due to several factors:

High saturated fat content from the ground beef and parmesan cheese
Refined carbohydrates from the breadcrumbs
Sodium content from the added salt and ketchup
Limited vegetable content, with only carrots and onions included

However, the recipe does incorporate some nutritious elements, such as the inclusion of vegetables, the use of lean ground beef, and the addition of protein-rich eggs.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Opt for lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef to reduce saturated fat
Increase the variety and quantity of vegetables, such as finely chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers
Replace half of the breadcrumbs with rolled oats or ground flaxseed for added fiber and nutrients
Reduce the amount of salt and use low-sodium ketchup to control sodium intake
Incorporate herbs and spices, such as oregano, thyme, or smoked paprika, to enhance flavor without relying on salt
Use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese in the mashed potato frosting to decrease the overall fat content
Serve the meatloaf cupcakes with a side salad or roasted vegetables to increase the nutrient density of the meal

By making these adjustments, you can transform this recipe into a more balanced and nutritious option while still maintaining its unique presentation and appeal.

Our Editor's Honest Opinion on Meatloaf Cupcakes

The meatloaf cupcakes recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dish. The individual portions make for a fun and visually appealing presentation. The combination of savory meatloaf and creamy mashed potato frosting creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The addition of carrots and onions adds a hint of sweetness and depth to the meatloaf. Overall, this recipe is a creative and delicious take on a traditional meatloaf, perfect for entertaining or a family dinner.

Enhance Your Meatloaf Cupcakes Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic and parmesan cheese for a flavorful and crunchy side dish.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Roasted carrots drizzled with honey and a hint of cinnamon for a sweet and savory side dish.

Creamy Corn Casserole: A rich and creamy corn casserole with a golden brown crust for a comforting and indulgent side dish.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Meatloaf Cupcakes

Stuffed Bell Peppers: A delicious and colorful dish that combines ground beef, rice, and seasonings stuffed inside bell peppers and baked to perfection.

Chicken Alfredo Pasta: A creamy and indulgent pasta dish featuring tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich homemade alfredo sauce.

Apple Crisp: A warm and comforting dessert made with tender apples, a crispy oat topping, and a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg for the perfect fall treat.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts to Complement This Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. They are the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Indulge in this creamy and cheesy spinach and artichoke dip, served with crispy tortilla chips or warm bread. It's a crowd-pleasing appetizer that will leave everyone coming back for more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Impress your guests with a decadent and indulgent dessert that oozes with rich, molten chocolate. The warm, gooey center is the perfect contrast to the slightly crisp exterior, creating a symphony of textures and flavors in every bite.

Tiramisu: Transport your taste buds to Italy with this classic dessert featuring layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone cheese. The delicate balance of sweetness and bitterness, along with the hint of cocoa, makes this dessert a timeless favorite.

Why trust this Meatloaf Cupcakes Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delicious and satisfying meal. The ground beef provides a rich and savory base, while the addition of carrots and onion infuses the meatloaf cupcakes with a delightful sweetness. The use of ketchup and parmesan cheese enhances the flavors, and the mashed potato frosting adds a creamy and comforting finish. With a perfect balance of garlic and parsley, this recipe promises a delightful culinary experience. Trust in the quality and expertise behind this recipe for a delightful dining experience.

Want to share your own unique meatloaf cupcakes recipe or discuss baking techniques? Head over to the Baking and Desserts section of our cooking forum and join the conversation!

FAQ:

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef for the meatloaf cupcakes?

Yes, you can definitely use ground turkey as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Just be mindful that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

Can I make the meatloaf cupcakes ahead of time and reheat them later?

Absolutely! You can make the meatloaf cupcakes ahead of time and reheat them in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Can I substitute the ketchup with another condiment in the meatloaf mixture?

Certainly! You can substitute the ketchup with barbecue sauce, tomato sauce, or even a combination of mustard and honey for a different flavor profile.

Can I freeze the meatloaf cupcakes?

Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf cupcakes. Once they have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and they should keep well for up to 2-3 months.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes for the frosting instead of making mashed potatoes from scratch?

Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes if you're short on time. Just prepare them according to the package instructions and pipe them onto the meatloaf cupcakes as frosting.