Name: Mini Meatloaf with Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Cooking spray; 1 pound ground beef (90/10); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper; 3/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 2–4 tablespoons ketchup; 1/3 cup Romano or Parmesan cheese, grated; 1/3 cup seasoned breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; Warm water (optional, if mixture is too dry)

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Mini Meatloaf with Potatoes is a delicious twist on a classic comfort food. Perfectly portioned individual meatloafs paired with crispy roasted potatoes make for a hearty, satisfying meal that is both simple and full of flavor. This recipe is great for family dinners or meal prep and is easy to customize based on personal preferences. The individual meatloafs cook more quickly than a traditional large meatloaf, making this an ideal weeknight dinner solution. Paired with roasted potatoes, the dish is a complete and balanced meal that will please both kids and adults alike.

The mini meatloafs are made with lean ground beef, seasoned to perfection with garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and grated Romano or Parmesan cheese. They are bound together with breadcrumbs and an egg, ensuring a juicy, flavorful result. The potatoes, roasted to crispy perfection, add a comforting, hearty touch to the meal, rounding out the dish with the perfect texture contrast. You’ll be able to prepare a full dinner in no time, and the best part is that it’s all baked in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This recipe comes together in just 30-40 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want something hearty but don’t have a lot of time.

2. Perfectly Portioned

Mini meatloafs are not only adorable, but they are also portion-controlled, so there’s no need to worry about slicing. They’re easy to serve and perfect for meal prep.

3. Flavorful and Juicy

The combination of garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and cheese makes these mini meatloafs bursting with flavor, while the breadcrumbs and egg ensure they stay moist and tender.

4. Customizable

You can easily adjust the seasonings or swap out the cheese and breadcrumbs for your favorites. Add vegetables to the meat mixture or swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

5. One-Pan Meal

The meatloafs and potatoes cook together on one baking sheet, making cleanup quick and easy. It’s a no-fuss, full meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Meatloaf:

Cooking spray
Ground beef (90/10)
Garlic powder
Kosher salt
Ground black pepper
Worcestershire sauce
Ketchup
Romano or Parmesan cheese (grated)
Seasoned breadcrumbs
Large egg
Warm water (optional, if mixture is too dry)

Variations

Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken to make the recipe lighter or more suitable for specific dietary needs.
Add Veggies to the Meatloaf: You can add finely chopped onions, bell peppers, or even spinach into the meatloaf mixture for extra nutrients and flavor.
Cheese Variations: Swap the Romano or Parmesan for another type of cheese like mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture to give it a spicy kick.
Dairy-Free Version: To make the meatloaf dairy-free, use dairy-free cheese and breadcrumbs. You can also use a non-dairy milk substitute to replace any moisture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. You can also use a baking dish if preferred.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, grated Romano or Parmesan cheese, seasoned breadcrumbs, and the egg. Mix everything together until well combined. If the mixture feels too dry, add a small amount of warm water to help bind it together.

Step 3: Form the Mini Meatloafs

Divide the meatloaf mixture into individual portions, forming 6-8 small meatloafs (depending on your desired size). Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out evenly.

Step 4: Roast the Potatoes

While preparing the meatloafs, scrub and chop your potatoes into small, bite-sized cubes. Toss the potatoes in a bit of oil, salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Arrange the potatoes around the mini meatloafs on the same baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake and Cook

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatloafs are cooked through and have an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). The potatoes should be golden brown and crispy on the edges. If the potatoes need extra time, continue to bake them for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking for doneness.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the mini meatloafs and potatoes from the oven. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve the mini meatloafs alongside the roasted potatoes for a satisfying, complete meal.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the mini meatloafs to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the meatloaf ingredients, be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tougher texture. Mix just until the ingredients are incorporated.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and form the mini loaves in advance, then store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Crispy Potatoes: For extra crispy potatoes, cut them into smaller pieces and make sure they’re spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Topping Ideas: Top the mini meatloafs with extra ketchup, BBQ sauce, or a sprinkle of cheese before baking for added flavor.

How to Serve

Mini Meatloaf with Potatoes makes a delicious, filling meal on its own. However, you can serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for an even more balanced dish. For an extra touch, drizzle the meatloafs with ketchup or gravy, or serve with a dollop of sour cream for added richness. Pair with a cold drink or a glass of red wine for a complete meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover mini meatloafs and potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Freezing

To freeze, place the cooked mini meatloafs and potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for 1-2 hours until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the microwave or place them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Add a little splash of water or broth to prevent the meatloaf from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can swap ground turkey or chicken for ground beef. Just ensure the mixture has enough moisture to stay tender.

2. Can I make these meatloafs without breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can substitute the breadcrumbs with oats or even crushed crackers if necessary.

3. Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?

Yes, finely chopped vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or spinach can be added to the meatloaf mixture for extra flavor and nutrients.

4. Can I make the meatloaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mini meatloafs in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them.

5. How long do the leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

6. How can I make the potatoes crispier?

To get crispier potatoes, cut them into smaller pieces and make sure they are spread out evenly on the baking sheet. Also, try adding a bit of olive oil and seasoning them before baking.

7. Can I freeze uncooked mini meatloafs?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked mini meatloafs. Form them into individual portions, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until firm. Transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months.

8. Can I top the meatloafs with cheese?

Yes, adding cheese on top of the mini meatloafs before baking can give them a delicious cheesy crust.

9. Can I use a different cheese for the meatloaf?

Yes, you can use different cheeses, such as mozzarella or cheddar, in place of Parmesan or Romano for a different flavor.

10. Can I use instant potatoes for this recipe?

For a quick shortcut, you can use instant potatoes, but they won’t have the same texture as freshly roasted potatoes. Fresh potatoes are recommended for the best flavor.

Conclusion

Mini Meatloaf with Potatoes is a comforting and delicious meal that is both easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing meals ahead of time, this recipe offers both convenience and taste. With customizable options, you can tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences, making it an adaptable dish that everyone will enjoy. The crispy potatoes and juicy meatloafs come together to create a balanced, satisfying meal that will keep everyone coming back for more!