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nal, for added flavor)
– **1/2 teaspoon dried thyme** (optional)
– **1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese** (optional for a cheesy boost)
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For the **glaze**:
– **1/4 cup ketchup**
– **2 tablespoons brown sugar**
– **1 tablespoon Dijon mustard** (or regular mustard)
– **1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce**
### Instructions for Making Mini Meatloaf in a Pan
#### 1. **Preheat the Oven**
Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)** and grease a baking pan (8×8-inch or a similar size) with a little cooking spray or olive oil. You can also use a loaf pan if you prefer.
#### 2. **Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture**
In a large mixing bowl, combine the **ground beef**, **breadcrumbs**, **milk**, **egg**, **chopped onion**, **minced garlic**, **salt**, **pepper**, and optional **oregano**, **thyme**, and **Parmesan cheese**. Mix everything together gently using your hands or a spoon until just combined—be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can result in a dense meatloaf.
#### 3. **Shape the Meatloafs**
Divide the meat mixture into **4-6 equal portions**, depending on how large or small you want your mini meatloafs. Shape each portion into a small loaf and place them in the greased baking pan, leaving some space between each mini meatloaf to ensure even cooking.
#### 4. **Make the Glaze**
In a small bowl, combine the **ketchup**, **brown sugar**, **mustard**, and **Worcestershire sauce**. Stir until the ingredients are well mixed.
#### 5. **Top the Mini Meatloafs with the Glaze**
Generously spoon the glaze over each mini meatloaf, ensuring they are all covered with a nice layer of the sweet and tangy sauce. You can also reserve some glaze for serving on the side if you like extra sauce with your meatloaf.
#### 6. **Bake the Mini Meatloafs**
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about **25-30 minutes**, or until the mini meatloafs are cooked through. The internal temperature of the meatloafs should reach **160°F (71°C)** for beef, or **165°F (74°C)** for poultry.
#### 7. **Serve and Enjoy**
Once the mini meatloafs are fully cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
### Tips for the Best Mini Meatloaf in a Pan
– **Use Lean Meat**: For a healthier option, consider using lean ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different than beef. If using lean meat, you might want to add a little extra moisture with a spoonful of olive oil or additional breadcrumbs to keep the mini meatloafs tender.
– **Add Veggies**: If you want to sneak in some extra vegetables, try finely grating or chopping carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers into the meat mixture. This will add nutrients and moisture while enhancing the flavor.
– **Customize the Glaze**: The glaze is key to adding a burst of flavor to your mini meatloafs. You can adjust the sweetness and tanginess by adding more or less sugar, mustard, or Worcestershire sauce. If you prefer a spicy kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or sriracha to the glaze.
– **Don’t Overmix**: When combining the meat and seasonings, be careful not to overmix the ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture, so gently stir until everything is just combined.
– **Freezing for Later**: Mini meatloafs freeze beautifully. If you have leftovers or want to make a big batch, wrap the cooked mini meatloafs in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze them for up to **3 months**. When ready to eat, simply thaw and reheat in the oven.
### What to Serve with Mini Meatloaf in a Pan
Mini meatloafs are versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas for a well-rounded meal:
– **Mashed Potatoes**: The classic pairing with meatloaf, mashed potatoes are the perfect creamy side dish to balance the savory flavors of the meatloaf.
– **Steamed Vegetables**: Opt for simple steamed vegetables like green beans, broccoli, or peas to add a nutritious and colorful touch to your plate.
– **Roasted Potatoes**: For an extra crispy option, serve your mini meatloafs with roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary and garlic.
– **Side Salad**: A fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette can add a nice crunch and balance out the richness of the meatloaf.
### Conclusion
**Mini Meatloaf in a Pan** is a perfect, family-friendly meal that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create juicy, flavorful meatloafs that cook up quickly and are sure to please everyone at the table. The tangy glaze adds a delicious finishing touch, making this dish even more irresistible.
Give this recipe a try for your next family dinner, and enjoy the comfort of homemade meatloaf in a fun and convenient mini size!
