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Crispy Muffin Tin Meatloaf Bites Easy Savory Glaze Recipe

crispy muffin tin meatloaf bites - featured image

These crispy muffin tin meatloaf bites combine the cozy, rich flavors of classic meatloaf with a crispy crust and a lick-worthy savory glaze, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned; panko works well)
  • 1/4 cup whole milk (can substitute almond or oat milk)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • For the glaze:
  • 1/3 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Pinch of black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease muffin tin cups with non-stick spray or oil.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, and milk. Let sit for a couple of minutes.
  3. Add egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Divide meat mixture evenly among muffin tin cups, filling about two-thirds full (approx. 2.5 oz per cup). Press lightly to shape.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and black pepper to make the glaze.
  6. Brush a generous layer of glaze over each meatloaf bite.
  7. Bake for 20–25 minutes. Around 15 minutes in, brush on a second layer of glaze.
  8. Check doneness with a meat thermometer (160°F/71°C) or cut into a bite to ensure no pink remains.
  9. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes in the tin.
  10. Carefully remove bites using a spatula or butter knife. Serve warm with extra glaze if desired.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat to avoid tough texture. Brush glaze twice during baking for best flavor and sticky crust. Let bites rest in the pan before removing to keep juices locked in. Use silicone muffin cups if preferred. For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free oats and use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and ketchup.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf bites, muffin tin meatloaf, savory glaze, quick meatloaf, bite-sized meatloaf, easy dinner, comfort food