Classic Mini Meatloaves
Comforting individual meatloaves made with seasoned ground beef, baked until tender, and topped with a sweet and tangy glaze. A satisfying homemade meal for two.
Prepare the meatloaf mixture
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine 1 pound ground beef, 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup beef broth, 1/2 finely chopped small onion, 1 clove minced garlic, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper. Mix gently with your hands until all ingredients are just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
💡 Pro Tips:
- •Overmixing can make meatloaf dense; mix just until combined.
- •Using cool hands helps prevent the fat from melting too much during mixing.
Shape the mini meatloaves
Divide the meatloaf mixture into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a small, oval-shaped loaf (like a mini loaf of bread). Place the two mini meatloaves on a baking sheet. This ensures even cooking.
💡 Pro Tips:
- •Shaping into smaller loaves helps them cook faster and more evenly than one large loaf.
- •A baking sheet makes for easy cleanup.
Make the glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup ketchup, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon white vinegar. This creates a sweet and tangy topping for the meatloaves.
💡 Pro Tips:
- •Whisking well ensures the sugar dissolves for a smooth glaze.
- •The glaze adds a lovely finish and extra flavor.
Bake the meatloaves
Brush about half of the prepared glaze over the tops and sides of the mini meatloaves on the baking sheet. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the meatloaves from the oven, brush with the remaining glaze, and return to the oven. Continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for beef. The glaze should be caramelized (turned slightly sticky and browned).
💡 Pro Tips:
- •Baking in two stages helps the glaze develop a deeper flavor without burning.
- •Caramelized means turned slightly sticky and browned from cooking sugar.
Rest and serve
Once cooked, remove the meatloaves from the oven and let them rest on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to settle back into the meat, keeping it moist and tender. Serve immediately.
💡 Pro Tips:
- •Resting meat after cooking is important for a juicy result.
- •Meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes, green beans, or corn.
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl (for glaze)
- Baking sheet
- Pastry brush
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- 💡For a gluten-free version, be sure to use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- 💡You can add finely grated carrots or bell peppers to the meatloaf mixture for extra vegetables.
- 💡Leftover meatloaf makes delicious sandwiches.
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