Description
These BBQ Mini Meatloaves are a delightful twist on a classic comfort food, featuring individual portions packed with flavorful ground beef or turkey, stuffing mix, and a tangy barbecue sauce topping. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and baked to perfection, they are perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a convenient and tasty meal.
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
- 3/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 12-cavity muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the mini meatloaves after baking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey, stuffing mix, water, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and the stuffing absorbs the moisture from the water and meat.
- Shape & Fill Muffin Pan: Evenly distribute the meat mixture among the 12 muffin cavities, pressing it in firmly. Use the back of a spoon to create a shallow indentation in the center of each portion to hold the barbecue sauce.
- Add BBQ Sauce: Spoon about half of the barbecue sauce into each indentation, reserving the remaining sauce for topping later if desired.
- Bake: Place the muffin pan on the center rack of the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the meatloaves are fully cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- Top with Cheese: Remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over each mini meatloaf. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest & Serve: Allow the mini meatloaves to rest in the muffin pan for 10 minutes. This resting period helps the meatloaves firm up and hold their shape when removed. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- For a healthier option, use lean ground turkey instead of beef.
- Feel free to switch up the cheese type or add extra seasonings like onion powder or paprika to customize flavor.
- If you prefer spicier meatloaves, mix some hot sauce or cayenne pepper into the barbecue sauce.
- To prep ahead, assemble the mini meatloaves and refrigerate them before baking; bake as directed when ready.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
