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Savory Loaded Meatloaf Muffins with Caramelized Glaze

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These savory meatloaf muffins are quick and easy to make, featuring a caramelized glaze and a loaded mix of veggies and cheese for a comforting, bite-sized meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio recommended)
  • 1/2 cup finely diced yellow onion
  • 1/2 cup finely diced bell pepper (red or green)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned, Panko preferred)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/3 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (dark)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or dried thyme

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with non-stick spray or oil.
  2. In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth; set aside.
  3. Heat a teaspoon of oil in a small pan over medium heat. Sauté diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Let cool slightly.
  4. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, pepper, and optional spices. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined; do not overmix.
  5. Fold in shredded cheddar cheese evenly throughout the meat mixture.
  6. Divide the mixture evenly among the 12 muffin cups, pressing gently to fill and level the tops.
  7. Spoon about a teaspoon of the caramelized glaze onto the top of each muffin, spreading lightly to cover.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and glaze is bubbling and caramelized.
  9. Let the muffins rest in the pan for 5 minutes before removing carefully with a spoon or knife.

Notes

If glaze browns too quickly, tent muffins loosely with foil to prevent burning. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F. For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. For dairy-free, omit or replace cheddar cheese with plant-based cheese. Avoid overmixing meat to keep muffins tender. Broiling for last 2 minutes can enhance caramelization but watch carefully.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf muffins, savory muffins, caramelized glaze, quick dinner, ground beef recipe, weeknight meal, comfort food

Find it online: https://tastytuck.com/savory-loaded-meatloaf-muffins-with-caramelized-glaze-easy-recipe/