Mini meatloaves are a delightful twist on the classic meatloaf, offering perfectly portioned servings that are both convenient and flavorful. Paired with roasted veggies, this dish makes for a complete, nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare and delicious to eat. Originating from the need to create quick and easy family meals, these mini versions of the traditional meatloaf bake faster and allow for easy customization to suit different tastes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, mini meatloaves and roasted veggies are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
For the Mini Meatloaves
- 1 pound ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Glaze
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
For the Roasted Veggies
- 2 cups baby potatoes, halved
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparing the Mini Meatloaves
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
- Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan cheese, onion, egg, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything until well combined.
- Shape the Meatloaves: Divide the meat mixture into eight equal portions. Shape each portion into a small loaf and place them on one side of a large baking sheet or a sheet pan.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Brush this glaze over the top of each mini meatloaf.
Roasting the Veggies
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a separate bowl, toss the baby potatoes, carrots, and broccoli with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange on the Baking Sheet: Spread the vegetables on the other side of the baking sheet, ensuring they are in a single layer for even roasting.
Baking
- Bake in the Oven: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatloaves are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F or 71°C) and the veggies are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaves rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve the mini meatloaves alongside the roasted veggies for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations
- Substitute Ground Meat: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this dish. You can also mix half beef and half pork for added flavor.
- Add Vegetables Inside: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach into the meat mixture for added nutrition and moisture.
- Make it Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to change the flavor profile of the dish.
- Sheet Pan Alternative: Instead of individual mini meatloaves, shape the meat mixture into one large loaf and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Storage and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
Nutritional Information
For each serving (1 mini meatloaf with a portion of veggies):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 6g
Mini meatloaves and roasted veggies offer a balanced meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or family dinners, providing hearty portions and a delightful blend of textures and tastes. Don’t forget to customize your mini meatloaves with different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try and share your creations with us in the comments section below. We’d love to hear how you enjoyed it and any variations you experimented with. Remember to subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes like this one