Meat Cups
Meat Cups are savory, flavorful individual portions made with ground beef and bread crumbs, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Easy to prepare and freeze for convenience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
- Pat the mixture into muffin cups.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
- Can be frozen in meal-size portions, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also substitute the evaporated milk with almond milk or regular milk for a dairy-free option. Ensure to mix the ingredients thoroughly to achieve a uniform texture. If you enjoy flavors like those in Easy And Good Meat Loaf, feel free to add spices such as garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meat cups hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color. They make a delightful main dish accompanied by a side salad or roasted vegetables. For a fun twist, pair them with Nippy Dip for a creamy contrast or serve alongside some crusty bread to soak up the juices.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual cups for 1-2 minutes, ensuring they are heated evenly. If you freeze them, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Cups contains roughly 661 calories, with 12g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), iron (30% of the Daily Value), and calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2297mg per serving (100% 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 make these meat cups ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great time-saver for busy weeknights. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly if the mixture is cold when you place it in the oven.
Can I add vegetables to the meat mixture?
Absolutely! Finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or celery can be mixed in for added nutrition and flavor. Just be sure to keep the vegetable amount balanced with the meat so that the cups hold their shape while baking.
How do I know when the meat cups are done cooking?
The meat cups are done when they are browned on top and a meat thermometer reads at least 160°F in the center. If you’re unsure, cut one open to ensure it’s no longer pink inside. Allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving for the best texture.
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).