Mini Meat Loaf
Mini Meat Loaf offers tender, flavorful individual portions infused with Italian seasoning and tomato sauce, complemented by savory potatoes and vegetables, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, salt, egg, 1/2 can tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, and 1/2 can fried onions in a bowl.
- Make 3 small meat loaves from the mixture and place them in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Arrange potatoes around the meat loaves and cover the dish. Bake at 375°F for 35 minutes.
- Add frozen broccoli and onion around the loaves and mix with potatoes; pour remaining tomato sauce over the loaves.
- Season with additional salt and pepper as desired.
- Bake uncovered for 15 minutes, then sprinkle remaining fried onions on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a leaner option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. You can also add grated carrots or zucchini to the meat mixture for extra moisture and nutrition. If you prefer a spicier kick, try incorporating some diced jalapeños or chili flakes. This recipe can be adapted to use different vegetables, such as bell peppers or green beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the mini meat loaves with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with roasted vegetables or a warm bread roll. For an extra touch, drizzle some gravy over the loaves or serve with a side of barbecue sauce for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the mini meat loaves in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but be cautious to avoid drying them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mini Meat Loaf contains roughly 25 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 659mg per serving (29% 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 freeze the mini meat loaves?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meat loaves. Just assemble them and wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
How can I adjust the cooking time for larger meat loaves?
If you're making larger meat loaves, increase the cooking time. Typically, larger loaves will need an additional 10-15 minutes in the oven. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
What can I substitute for tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, you can use crushed tomatoes or even barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that barbecue sauce will add sweetness, which can be a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the meat loaf.
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).