Now, while the muffins are baking, peel and chop your potatoes into small chunks and place them in a pot of boiling salted water. Boil for about 15-20 minutes or until they’re fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add in the butter, milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mash until creamy and smooth. Keep your potatoes warm; they’ll be the "frosting" for our mini meatloaf cakes!
After about 25-30 minutes of baking, check your mini meatloafs for doneness with a skewer or fork; they should register at least 160°F (70°C) internally. When they’re ready, take them out of the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Once they’re cool enough to handle, remove them from the muffin tin. Top each one with a generous dollop of your buttery mashed potatoes.
Finally, drizzle a little extra ketchup on top for that classic meatloaf flair, and if you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle some fresh herbs or grated cheese. You’ll be amazed at how gourmet these little guys look!
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this recipe three ways: with lean ground beef, ground turkey, and a veggie meatloaf mix. While they all turned out tasty, the classic ground beef version had that rich flavor I adore. If you prefer a lighter option, don’t hesitate to go for turkey; just add a touch more seasoning since it’s milder.
To ensure that your meatloaf muffins cook evenly, make sure to pack them lightly into the muffin tin but don’t overdo it. I once packed them too tightly, and they turned out dense instead of the tender morsels I was aiming for. I also recommend letting them cool slightly before removing, making it easier to lift them out without losing their shape.
Finally, don’t hesitate to experiment with the mashed potato frosting. Adding garlic or even some cream cheese can elevate the flavor profile. I once had some leftover sour cream, and it made the potatoes even creamier and tangier, which was a delightful surprise!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I often see (and made myself initially) is overmixing the meat mixture. It’s always tempting to mix until it’s completely smooth, but overmixing leads to a rubbery texture. Trust me; your meatloaf muffins should be light and fluffy! (See the next page below to continue…)