Mini Meatloaf Cupcakes with Creamy Mashed Potato Topping

Elevate your weeknight dinners with these delightful Mini Meatloaf Muffins topped with a creamy mashed potato “frosting.” These savory little bites offer all the comforting flavors of a traditional meatloaf in a fun and convenient cupcake form. Perfect for family meals or impressing guests at a dinner party, this recipe is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Ingredients

For the Mini Meatloaf Muffins:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potato “Frosting”:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chives or parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin to prevent the meatloaf muffins from sticking.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
   In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, ketchup, milk, finely chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Form the Meatloaf Muffins:
   Press the meatloaf mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup to the top. This will form your mini meatloaves.
4. Bake:
   Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The muffins are ready when they’re cooked through and the tops are nicely browned.
5. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
   While the muffins are baking, boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and mash them with milk, butter, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with more milk if needed.
6. Cool and Frost:
   Once the meatloaf muffins are baked, allow them to cool slightly before removing them from the tin. Using a piping bag or a spoon, top each muffin with a generous dollop of mashed potato “frosting,” mimicking the look of a cupcake.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives or parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy these savory treats!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Calories: 350 kcal per serving | Servings: 6

These Mini Meatloaf Muffins with Mashed Potato Frosting are not only a fun twist on a classic dish but also a comforting meal that the whole family will love. With their savory flavor and creamy topping, they’re sure to become a household favorite.