Glazed Mini Meatloaves
Try this Glazed Mini Meatloaves recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Glazed Mini Meatloaves recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 3 tablespoons worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 1/2 tablespoons dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/3 cup minced fresh parsley
- 17-20 saltine crackers crushed fine (about 2/3 cup)
- 1 1/2 pounds ground meat (i use a combination of lean ground ch lean ground pork, or lean ground turkey)
- 2 teaspoons oil (i used canola oil)
- 4 teaspoons cider vinegar
- Carbohydrate 18.1972684454544 g
- Cholesterol 53.065625 mg
- Fat 1.67311731595107 g
- Fiber 0.550518647848562 g
- Protein 2.69461139271013 g
- Saturated Fat 0.45882670200052 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -5 mini meatloaf (247g)
- Sodium 546.348153471403 mg
- Sugar 17.6467497976058 g
- Trans Fat 0.267906254970918 g
- Calories 93 calories
Step-by-step
- Adjust an oven rack to the middle position and heat the oven to 425 degrees.
- Stir cracker crumbs, milk, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, egg, mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper together in a large bowl.
- Add ground meat and combine until uniform.
- Shape mixture into oval loaves (I doubled the recipe and got 10 mini loaves, so when I make the recipe without doubling it, I plan to shape into at least 5 loaves – they were definitely big enough to be perfectly filling!).
- Heat oil in 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat until the oil is rippling.
- Add meatloaves (without letting them touch sides) and brown well on one side, 3-5 minutes.
- Carefully flip loaves over and tidy up edges using a spatula (I didn’t need to do this – my meatloaves managed to hold their shape really well).
- Brown on this side for another 2-3 minutes.
- Meanwhile, mix glaze ingredients together until smooth.
- Transfer mini meatloaves to a foil-lined baking pan and spoon the glaze over the top of each meatloaf.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, until the center of the loaf registers 160 degrees on an instant-read thermometer (or do like I do and cut one of the little babies open and if it looks done – pull ‘em out of the oven!).
My Go-To Weeknight Meal: Glazed Mini Meatloaves
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and healthy dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and the never-ending cycle of laundry, sometimes the simplest meals are the most appreciated. That's where these glazed mini meatloaves come in. They're quick, easy to make, and surprisingly satisfying. Plus, the kids love them, which is a huge bonus! Forget the stress of elaborate recipes; this dish is all about efficiency without compromising flavor.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. I often adapt it based on what I have on hand. Sometimes I swap out the ground beef for a leaner ground turkey or even a mixture of both. Feeling adventurous? Throw in some finely chopped vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for an extra nutritional boost. The glaze itself is equally customizable. I’ve experimented with adding a touch of chili sauce for a spicy kick or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangier flavor. The possibilities are endless!
This recipe isn't just about convenience; it's also about creating a comforting family meal. The aroma of these mini meatloaves baking in the oven is truly something special. It fills the kitchen with a warmth that signals the end of a long day and the beginning of family time. We often sit around the table, sharing stories and laughter, while enjoying these tasty little morsels. It's those moments, more than anything, that make this recipe so precious to me.
One of the things I love most about this recipe is how easily it can be adapted to suit different dietary needs and preferences. For example, if you're watching your sodium intake, you can easily reduce the amount of salt used. If you prefer a spicier glaze, feel free to add a dash of your favorite hot sauce. The beauty of cooking is that it allows for creativity and personalization. This recipe is a perfect example of how a simple dish can be transformed into something truly unique and delicious.
The key to success with this recipe is to not overwork the meat mixture. Gentle mixing ensures a tender, flavorful result. Also, don't be afraid to experiment with different types of crackers. I've used Ritz crackers in a pinch, and they worked perfectly well. Remember, the most important ingredient is your love and attention to detail. These little meatloaves aren't just a meal; they're a symbol of care and nourishment that I happily share with my family.
Beyond the ease of preparation and delicious taste, these mini meatloaves offer a fantastic opportunity for meal prepping. I often double the recipe and freeze half of the cooked meatloaves for busy weeknights. This way, I always have a quick and healthy meal on hand, ready to be reheated in minutes. This eliminates the stress of last-minute dinner decisions and allows me to focus on other aspects of my busy life. The freezer-friendly nature of this recipe is truly a lifesaver for working mothers everywhere!
In conclusion, these glazed mini meatloaves are more than just a recipe; they're a testament to the power of simple, delicious food in a busy life. They're a quick, easy, and adaptable meal that can be tailored to any taste or dietary need. They're also a source of comfort and joy, bringing my family together around the dinner table. So, next time you're looking for a weeknight dinner that's both flavorful and convenient, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed.
