Discovering the Perfect Weeknight Meal
My Favorite is BBQ Cheddar Meatloaf Muffins and I was in the middle of a busy week, juggling work and family, when I realized I needed to come up with a quick and satisfying dinner idea. I wanted something comforting yet easy to prepare. That’s when I thought of turning a classic comfort food into something new—BBQ Cheddar Meatloaf Muffins. I love meatloaf, but the idea of making it in a muffin tin seemed like the perfect way to save time and add a fun twist to a traditional dish. The thought of gooey cheddar and smoky barbecue sauce melting into each bite got me excited to try it out.
A Simple Recipe with Big Flavor
As I gathered the ingredients, I could already imagine how delicious these little meatloaf muffins would be. The ground beef, sharp cheddar cheese, and smoky barbecue sauce were a winning combination. I also added seasoned stuffing mix to give the muffins a hearty texture. The best part? This recipe was so simple that I had everything mixed and ready to go in just a few minutes. The kitchen was filled with the mouthwatering aroma of barbecue as the muffins baked, and I couldn’t wait to see how they turned out.
A Family Favorite in the Making
When I pulled the muffins out of the oven, they were perfectly browned, with the cheese bubbling on top. I garnished them with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, adding a pop of color to the golden muffins. My family gathered around the table, eager to dig in. The first bite was a hit—the muffins were tender, flavorful, and the barbecue sauce added just the right amount of smokiness. My kids loved that they could have their own little meatloaf, and I was thrilled to see them enjoying such a wholesome meal.
A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion
These BBQ Cheddar Meatloaf Muffins quickly became a staple in our home. They’re not just great for weeknight dinners; they’re also perfect for meal prepping, lunchboxes, or even serving at dinner parties. I’ve even tried making them with ground turkey for a lighter option, and they were just as delicious. The recipe is so versatile that you can easily adapt it to suit your preferences. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or something new to add to your meal rotation, these muffins are sure to please.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- BBQ Cheddar Meatloaf Muffins
- Opt for lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) to minimize excess grease. This will prevent the muffins from becoming too oily and ensure a better texture.
- Be careful not to overmix the meat mixture. Overmixing can make the meatloaf muffins dense and tough. Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined.
- Using a standard muffin tin ensures each mini meatloaf is perfectly portioned. This is great for meal prep and makes serving easier.
- To get that perfectly melted and slightly golden cheese topping, keep a close eye during the final few minutes of baking. The cheese should be bubbly but not overly browned.
- For added depth of flavor, consider mixing in finely chopped onions, garlic, or bell peppers into the meat mixture. These vegetables can enhance the taste and add moisture.
- Allow the meatloaf muffins to rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps them firm up slightly, making them easier to remove from the muffin tin without falling apart.
- These meatloaf muffins pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a simple green salad. For a twist, serve them with sweet potato fries or corn on the cob.
BBQ Cheddar Meatloaf Muffins
4
muffins15
minutes24
minutes330
kcal5
minutes44
minutesGet ready to wow your family with these BBQ Cheddar Meatloaf Muffins! Perfectly portioned and packed with flavor, these mini meatloaves are a breeze to make and a delight to eat. With a smoky barbecue twist and gooey cheddar cheese, they’re sure to become a household favorite. Ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prepping, these muffins are both versatile and delicious. Try them today and elevate your meatloaf game!
Ingredients
1 pound lean ground beef
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
6 ounces seasoned stuffing mix
1 cup water
2 tablespoons smoky barbecue sauce
Additional smoky barbecue sauce for serving (optional)
Directions
- Mix Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, combine the seasoned stuffing mix with water and 2 tablespoons of smoky barbecue sauce. Let it sit for a minute to absorb the liquid.
- Combine with Beef – Add the ground beef to the bowl and mix lightly but thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
- Bake Initial – Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 18-22 minutes or until an instant-read thermometer reads 160°F (71°C).
- Add Cheese – Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each mini meatloaf and bake for an additional 2-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve – If desired, serve with additional smoky barbecue sauce on the side for dipping.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
- muffin tin
- oven
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 330kcal
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Protein: 21g
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 67mg
- Sodium: 668mg
- Potassium: 300mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
- Vitamin A: 10IU
- Vitamin C: 2mg
- Calcium: 20mg
- Iron: 15mg
FAQ-BBQ Cheddar Meatloaf Muffins
Can I make these meatloaf muffins ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and fill the muffin tin in advance. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also bake them ahead and reheat before serving.
Can I freeze the meatloaf muffins?
Absolutely! Once cooled, wrap the muffins individually in foil and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute the cheddar cheese with any cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or even gouda. For a dairy-free option, use vegan cheese.
How do I prevent the muffins from sticking to the tin?
While the recipe suggests using an ungreased muffin tin, if you’re concerned about sticking, you can lightly grease the tin or use silicone muffin liners. This will ensure the muffins come out easily.
What’s the best way to serve these muffins?
These meatloaf muffins are versatile and can be served as a main course with classic sides like mashed potatoes or as a hearty snack. For dipping, offer extra barbecue sauce, ketchup, or a spicy aioli.
