Weeknight Glazed Meatloaf Minis
February 24, 2026
Individual meatloaves with a sticky sweet glaze and caramelized edges!
Weeknight Glazed Meatloaf Minis are comfort food in mini form. They cook faster, they’re perfectly portioned, and they still have that classic flavor you want from meatloaf. Same weeknight dinner staple, just with better edges and a mini-size twist.
Flavor Profile
These mini meatloaves are tender and savory with just enough sweetness from the glaze to balance the richness of the beef. The onion keeps everything juicy, while Worcestershire adds depth. The brown sugar ketchup topping bakes into a glossy, slightly sticky layer that gives you that sweet and tangy finish in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- They bake in about 30 minutes and cook faster than a traditional loaf.
- Individual servings make meal prep and leftovers simple.
- More surface area means more glaze and more flavor.
- Familiar ingredients with that nostalgic meatloaf taste.
- Kid friendly and freezer friendly.
- Easy to double and save for later.
The Twist
The twist is simple but game changing. Instead of one large meatloaf, the mixture is shaped into individual minis. That one change means quicker bake time, better caramelization, and more glaze on every piece. You get those slightly crisp edges and glossy tops all around instead of just on the outside of a big loaf.
Ingredient Highlights
- Ground beef: Use 80 to 85 percent lean for the best balance of flavor and moisture.
- Breadcrumbs: Help bind everything together and keep the texture tender.
- Milk: Softens the breadcrumbs and prevents dryness.
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds savory depth and richness.
- Brown sugar: Creates that sweet sticky glaze when baked with ketchup.
- Mustard: Cuts the sweetness and adds a subtle tang to the glaze.
Weeknight Glazed Meatloaf Minis
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup milk
- ½ small onion, very finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Glaze
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently just until combined. Do not overwork the mixture.
- Divide evenly and shape into six small loaves. Place on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
- Stir together ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard for the glaze. Brush generously over each mini loaf.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until cooked through and the tops are slightly caramelized. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes. Ground turkey works well. Just be careful not to overbake since it is leaner.
Can I bake these in a muffin tin?
Absolutely. Lightly grease the tin and reduce baking time by a few minutes.
How do I know they’re done?
They should reach 160°F internally and no longer be pink in the center.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes. Shape the loaves and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Do they freeze well?
They freeze beautifully. Wrap tightly and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Sprinkle of Fun
Make these for a simple weeknight dinner, serve them with mashed potatoes, and put on a classic like I Love Lucy or The Andy Griffith Show. Mini meatloaf and a black-and-white sitcom have the same comforting, no-drama energy.
Suggested Recipes
If you like Weeknight Glazed Meatloaf Minis, then you’ll love the recipes below.
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