Meatloaf bites are mini versions of the classic meatloaf dish, packed with tasty beef, seasonings, and a hint of sweet ketchup. They’re perfect for a yummy bite-sized treat!
I love making these for snacks or parties—they’re always a hit! Plus, they cook faster than a whole meatloaf, so we get to enjoy them sooner. Who doesn’t love that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80% lean ground beef for a nice balance of flavor and juiciness. If you want a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. Just know that they might be a bit drier, so adjust cooking time accordingly.
Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs add texture, but if you’re looking to lighten the dish, you can use whole wheat breadcrumbs or crushed crackers. For a gluten-free version, ground oats or gluten-free breadcrumbs are great substitutes!
Onion: Finely chopped onions add moisture and flavor. If you’re not a fan of onion, you can skip it or replace it with onion powder for a milder taste.
Ketchup: Besides being used in the meat mixture, ketchup also tops the bites for a touch of sweetness. You can substitute it with barbecue sauce for a different flavor or use sugar-free ketchup for a low-carb option.
How Can I Get My Meatloaf Bites to Stay Moist?
Keeping your meatloaf bites moist is key! Here are some helpful tips:
- Don’t overmix your ingredients; mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
- Adding milk and an egg helps bind the mixture while providing moisture. Make sure to include them!
- Using breadcrumbs will absorb some moisture, so ensure they’re fresh. Stale breadcrumbs can make your bites dry.
- Keep an eye on the baking time. Overbaking will dry them out. They should be cooked through but still juicy!
By following these tips, you’ll have perfect meatloaf bites that are juicy and delicious!
How to Make Meatloaf Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper (optional)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, so you’ll be enjoying your delicious meatloaf bites in less than an hour. Perfect for a quick meal or a fun snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Get your oven warmed up by preheating it to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, grease a mini muffin tin with cooking spray or line it with silicone liners for easy removal later.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together all the ingredients: ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, bell pepper (if you’re using it), milk, egg, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, salt, pepper, and thyme. Be gentle when mixing, just until everything is combined—overworking the meat can make it tough.
3. Fill the Muffin Tin:
Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, fill each muffin cup with the meat mixture. Press it down a little to ensure it’s filled evenly. Keep going until all the mixture is in the tin!
4. Bake the Bites:
Pop the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You want them to be cooked through and a little browned on top for that yummy look!
5. Add Ketchup Topping:
Once done baking, take the bites out of the oven. Spread a small amount of ketchup on top of each meatloaf bite. This will give them a tasty glaze!
6. Final Bake:
Put them back in the oven for another 5 minutes to let the ketchup set and get nice and sticky.
7. Cool and Serve:
After baking, let the bites cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a serving plate. This will make them easier to remove!
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pretty finish. Serve your meatloaf bites warm as an appetizer or snack, and enjoy every delicious, savory bite!
These meatloaf bites are a delightful, fun twist on a classic dish. Perfect for any gathering or just a cozy night at home! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner option. Just be cautious with the baking time, as turkey can sometimes dry out more easily than beef. You might want to add a little extra milk or use a higher fat content for juiciness.
Can I Freeze Leftover Meatloaf Bites?
Yes, you can freeze these tasty bites! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can customize your meatloaf bites with various veggies! Finely grated carrots or zucchini add moisture and nutrition. Just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from zucchini to avoid sogginess!
Can I Make These Meatloaf Bites Gluten-Free?
Yes, simply swap out the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. They’ll work just as well, and your bites will still be delicious!
