So you’re craving comfort food but also want something cute and fast, huh? Same. And that’s exactly why meatloaf muffins with mashed potatoes were invented. They’re tiny, they’re adorable, and they cook way faster than regular meatloaf. Plus, they come with fluffy mashed potatoes piped right on top like little savory cupcakes. Basically, they look fancy without making you cry in the kitchen.
This recipe is perfect for busy nights, picky eaters, meal prep, or anyone who loves comfort food but hates long cooking times. These mini meatloaves stay juicy, bake quickly, and taste amazing. And the mashed potato topping? Pure happiness. If you want a recipe that’s easy, fun, and guaranteed to make people smile, you’re in the right place.
Why This Recipe Is Awesome
Let’s be honest: regular meatloaf is great, but it takes forever.
Meatloaf muffins with mashed potatoes fix that problem in the cutest way possible.
Here’s why you’ll love them:
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They cook in less time than a full loaf.
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They stay juicy because the muffin tins trap moisture.
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They’re easy to portion for kids, adults, or meal prep.
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They freeze beautifully.
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You get meatloaf + mashed potatoes in every single bite.
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And yes… it’s idiot-proof. Even I didn’t mess it up.
Basically, they’re comfort food with a shortcut.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Meatloaf Muffins
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Ground beef – Juicy and perfect for mini meatloaves.
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Eggs – Helps everything stick together.
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Onion – For flavor.
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Garlic powder – Easy flavor boost.
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Salt + pepper – Always.
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Ketchup – For sweetness and moisture.
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Worcestershire sauce – Adds depth.
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Breadcrumbs – Or crushed crackers. Keeps things tender.
For the Mashed Potatoes
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Potatoes – Russet or Yukon Gold.
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Butter – Makes them creamy.
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Milk or cream – Choose your richness level.
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Salt + pepper – Simple seasoning.
Optional Add-ins
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Cheese – Shredded cheddar on top is amazing.
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BBQ sauce – Brush it on before baking.
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Green onions – For garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
You want it hot so the muffins cook fast.
2. Make the mashed potatoes
Peel, boil, and mash your potatoes.
Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper.
Make them smooth and fluffy.
3. Mix the meat
Combine ground beef, egg, onion, ketchup, Worcestershire, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs.
Mix gently so the meat stays tender.
4. Fill the muffin tin
Scoop the meat mixture into a greased muffin tin.
Fill each cup about ¾ full.
Press lightly to shape them.
5. Bake
Bake 20–25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Let them sit for a few minutes to set.
6. Top with mashed potatoes
Pipe mashed potatoes onto each muffin like frosting.
You can use a spoon if piping feels too fancy.
Serve warm and enjoy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Overmixing the meat. It makes the muffins tough.
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Skipping the muffin tin spray. They WILL stick.
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Packing the meat too tightly. They won’t stay juicy.
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Not draining fat after baking. The muffins get soggy.
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Cold mashed potatoes. They don’t pipe well.
Avoid these, and your muffins will turn out amazing.
Alternatives & Substitutions
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Swap beef for turkey for a lighter version.
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Use mashed cauliflower for a low-carb topping.
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Try BBQ sauce instead of ketchup for smoky flavor.
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Add shredded cheese inside the meat mixture for extra richness.
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Use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs for low-carb diets.
IMO, the BBQ version with cheddar on top is dangerously good.
Helpful Tips
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Use a cookie scoop for even portions.
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Let the muffins cool slightly before removing from the pan.
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Add a little cream to the mashed potatoes to keep them smooth.
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Use a piping bag for picture-perfect “frosting.”
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Taste the mashed potatoes before topping — seasoning matters.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
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Broil the muffins for 1 minute to caramelize the tops before adding potatoes.
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Mix the meat with your hands — it’s gentler.
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Cook the potatoes until very soft to avoid lumps.
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If freezing, freeze without the potatoes and add after reheating.
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Use 80/20 beef for the juiciest results.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with steamed veggies for a complete meal.
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Drizzle gravy on top for extra comfort.
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Add a sprinkle of cheese and broil for cheesy crowns.
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Pair with salad for a lighter side.
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Serve at parties — they look adorable on a platter.
Storage and Reheating Tips
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Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
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Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
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Microwave in 30-second bursts if you’re in a rush.
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Freeze meatloaf muffins for up to 3 months.
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Best reheated with a splash of broth to keep them moist.
Meatloaf Muffins with Mashed Potatoes
Equipment
- Muffin tin
- Mixing bowls
- Potato masher
- Piping bag (optional)
- Spoon or scoop
Ingredients
- Muffin tin
- Mixing bowls
- Potato masher
- Piping bag optional
- Spoon or scoop
- Ingredient
- Meatloaf Muffins
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup chopped onion
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- Mashed Potatoes
- 3 large potatoes
- 3 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup milk or cream
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel and boil potatoes until soft. Mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Mix beef, egg, onion, breadcrumbs, ketchup, and seasoning.
- Fill muffin cups ¾ full.
- Bake 20–25 minutes.
- Let cool slightly, then top with mashed potatoes.
- Serve warm.
Notes
Nutritional Facts (Approx. per muffin)
Calories: 210Fat: 11g
Carbs: 12g
Protein: 16g
FAQ on Meatloaf Muffins with Mashed Potatoes
Can I freeze these?
Yes! Freeze without the mashed potatoes for best texture.
Can I make them ahead?
Absolutely. Prep the meat, store in the fridge, and bake later.
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Technically yes… but why hurt your taste buds like that?
Do I need a muffin tin?
Yes. That’s how they stay cute and tiny.
Can I skip the breadcrumbs?
Sure — just reduce the ketchup so the mixture isn’t too wet.
Can kids help make these?
Yes, and they’ll love shaping the mini meatloaves.
Can I double the recipe?
Totally. They disappear fast.
Final Thoughts on Meatloaf Muffins with Mashed Potatoes
There you go — your full guide to making adorable, delicious meatloaf muffins with mashed potatoes. They’re simple, cozy, and perfect for busy nights or fun meals. You get all the flavor of classic meatloaf, but in a cute muffin form that cooks in a fraction of the time.
Now go impress your family — or just yourself — with the easiest comfort food ever. You’ve got this!
