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Comforting Meatloaf Cupcakes Recipe

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A playful twist on classic meatloaf, these individual meatloaf cupcakes topped with creamy mashed potato frosting are quick, hearty, and perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
  • 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs (Panko preferred)
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or oregano and basil mix)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 large russet potatoes (about 1 pound), peeled and cubed
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream or whole milk
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: pinch of garlic powder or chives for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with butter or cooking spray.
  2. Place peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Cook for 15-20 minutes until tender. Drain well.
  3. Return potatoes to pot or bowl. Add softened butter and cream (start with 1/4 cup). Mash with a hand mixer or masher until smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder. Set aside to cool slightly.
  4. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  5. Divide meat mixture evenly among muffin tin cups (about 1/4 cup per cupcake). Press down lightly to shape but do not compact tightly.
  6. Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top of each meatloaf cupcake.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and tops are set.
  8. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Using a piping bag or spoon, top each cupcake with a swirl of mashed potato frosting.
  9. Optional: Broil for 1-2 minutes to lightly brown the potato topping, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  10. Serve warm, ideally with your favorite sides.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat mixture to avoid tough cupcakes. Let breadcrumbs soak in milk before mixing for moist texture. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F. Piping mashed potatoes creates a charming look but spooning works fine. Leftovers reheat well in oven or microwave. Freeze individually wrapped for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf cupcakes, comfort food, mashed potato frosting, easy dinner, weeknight meal, individual servings, meatloaf recipe

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