15 Minute Meat Loaf Midgets
Mini meat loaves with savory beef, tomato sauce, and cheese offer a quick, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, crumbled bread, egg, tomato paste, salt, pepper, and chopped onion if using.
- Pack the mixture into a muffin pan to form small loaves.
- Cover each mini loaf with the remaining tomato sauce.
- Sprinkle grated cheese on top of each loaf.
- Bake at 425°F for 15 to 20 minutes until cooked through and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also substitute the crumbled bread with crushed whole grain crackers or oats for added fiber. If you're short on time, skip the onion or use pre-chopped frozen onions. Make sure to pack the mixture tightly in the muffin pan for better shape and cooking.
Serving Suggestions
These meat loaf midgets make for a fun and hearty meal. Serve them with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete dinner. They pair beautifully with Escalloped Hamburg for a comforting meal. You can also serve them with a salad for a lighter option or enjoy them as a snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meat loaf midgets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave them for quick reheating, but the oven will help maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 15 Minute Meat Loaf Midgets contains roughly 376 calories, with 6g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (12% of the Daily Value), and iron (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2091mg per serving (91% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, pork, or chicken can be used in place of ground beef. Each will provide a different flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination.
What can I do if I don't have tomato paste?
If you don't have tomato paste on hand, you can use ketchup as a substitute. It will add sweetness and moisture to the mixture. Alternatively, you can use crushed tomatoes, but reduce the amount slightly to maintain the right consistency.
How can I make these meat loaves more flavorful?
For added flavor, consider mixing in your favorite herbs and spices, such as garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or Worcestershire sauce. You can also add grated cheese into the meat mixture for extra richness before baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).