Miniature Meat Loaves
Miniature meat loaves are savory, bite-sized beef balls topped with creamy mushroom soup, perfect for a hearty family meal or casual dinner. Easy to prepare and delicious.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef with bread crumbs, eggs, salt, and pepper. Form into 1-inch balls.
- Place the meat balls on a broiler pan and cook in the oven on broil, turning to cook thoroughly.
- Serve with mashed potatoes and top with cream of mushroom soup.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh ground beef and ensure the bread crumbs are finely crushed for even binding. If you want to lighten the dish, consider substituting half of the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. Adding some finely chopped onions or bell peppers to the meat mixture can enhance the flavor. If you're in a rush, you can use store-bought mashed potatoes or frozen varieties for convenience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the miniature meat loaves hot, topped generously with cream of mushroom soup for added creaminess. Pair them with buttery mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. For a complete dinner, consider adding steamed vegetables or a side salad. This dish also pairs beautifully with Quick Creamed Corned Beef, making it a delightful addition to any family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meat loaves in a microwave-safe dish and cover them to retain moisture. Heat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Miniature Meat Loaves contains roughly 833 calories, with 13g protein, 130g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (50% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 683mg per serving (30% 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 miniature meat loaves before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meat loaves. Form them into balls, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To cook, bake directly from frozen, adding extra cooking time.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer not to use cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute with homemade white sauce or another cream soup, like cream of chicken or cream of celery. You can also make a simple gravy using beef broth and flour for a different flavor.
How do I know when the meat loaves are fully cooked?
The best way to check if the meat loaves are fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 160°F. Alternatively, you can cut one open to ensure there is no pink remaining and the juices run clear.
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).