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Cozy Mini Meatloaf Comfort Bites

Cozy Mini Meatloaf Comfort Bites - featured image

These Cozy Mini Meatloaf Comfort Bites are tender, moist, and topped with a sweet and tangy glaze, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
  • ½ cup rolled oats (45g)
  • ½ cup finely diced onion
  • ¼ cup finely diced bell pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ⅓ cup ketchup (80 ml)
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp mustard (optional)
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a mini muffin tin or baking sheet with non-stick spray or parchment paper.
  2. Combine the oats and milk (if using) in a small bowl and let soak for about 5 minutes until softened.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, place the ground beef. Add the soaked oats, diced onions, bell peppers, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Gently mix together without overmixing.
  4. Scoop out the mixture by rounded tablespoons and place into the prepared mini muffin tin or on the baking sheet. Press lightly to shape into uniform mini meatloaf bites (about 18-20 pieces).
  5. In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spoon a small amount over each meatloaf bite, spreading gently to coat the tops.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
  7. Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf bites rest for 5 minutes.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat to keep bites tender. Use room temperature eggs and fresh vegetables for better binding. Soak oats to maintain moisture. Add glaze before baking for a caramelized top. Use a thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let bites rest after baking to keep juicy. If glaze browns too quickly, tent with foil during last 5 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: mini meatloaf, comfort food, easy dinner, ground beef recipe, kid-friendly, potluck recipe, savory bites