Description
These BBQ Mini Meatloaves are a fun and easy twist on traditional meatloaf, made in a muffin pan for perfectly portioned individual servings. Ground beef or turkey is mixed with stuffing mix and seasoned with garlic powder, then baked with a tangy barbecue sauce topping and melted cheddar cheese. Ideal for family dinners or parties, they cook quickly and come out juicy with a flavorful BBQ kick.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef or turkey
- 1 (6 ounce) package stuffing mix (such as Stouffers)
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Toppings
- 3/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 12-cavity muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the mini meatloaves do not stick during baking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef or turkey, stuffing mix, water, and garlic powder. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the stuffing absorbs the moisture, helping the mixture bind together.
- Shape & Fill Muffin Pan: Evenly distribute the meat mixture into the prepared muffin pan cavities, pressing gently to fill each one. Use the back of a spoon to create a shallow indentation in the center of each mini meatloaf for the barbecue sauce.
- Add BBQ Sauce: Spoon about half of the barbecue sauce into the indentations of each meatloaf, reserving the remaining sauce to use as a topping later if desired.
- Bake: Place the muffin pan into the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the meatloaves are cooked through with no pink inside.
- Top with Cheese: Remove the pan from the oven and evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over each mini meatloaf. Return the pan to the oven and bake an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest & Serve: Allow the meatloaves to rest in the pan for 10 minutes after baking. This resting time helps them set and maintain their shape when removed from the pan. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option or use a mixture of beef and pork for extra flavor.
- Using stuffing mix adds flavor and helps bind the meatloaf; you may substitute seasoned breadcrumbs if preferred.
- If you like your BBQ sauce spicier, feel free to mix in some hot sauce before topping the meatloaves.
- Make sure not to overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatloaves tender.
- Leftover mini meatloaves can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
