Description

Craving a hearty, flavorful twist on traditional meat loaf that’s perfect for busy nights or fun family dinners? The Mini Barbecue Meat Loaves are your answer! These individual-sized meat loaves, packed with smoky barbecue flavor and topped with melty cheddar, bake in a muffin tin for a quick, portion-controlled meal

Ingredients

To make Mini Barbecue Meat Loaves for 6 servings (12 mini loaves), you’ll need these key ingredients. Each one adds flavor, texture, or comfort to this fun dish:

Stuffing Mix (1 package, 6 oz): Acts as a binder and adds savory flavor.
Water (1 cup): Hydrates the stuffing mix for a moist texture.
Hickory Smoke-Flavored Barbecue Sauce (2 tbsp, plus extra for serving): Brings smoky, tangy sweetness.
Ground Beef (1 lb): The hearty, savory base for the loaves.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): Adds melty, sharp flavor for the topping.
Additional Hickory Smoke-Flavored Barbecue Sauce (optional): For serving, adds extra zing.

Substitutions and Variations:

Ground Beef: Swap with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a vegetarian option.
Stuffing Mix: Use breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or gluten-free stuffing mix.
Barbecue Sauce: Try a spicy, honey, or chipotle-flavored barbecue sauce for a different twist.
Cheese: Replace cheddar with mozzarella, pepper jack, or a dairy-free alternative.
Add-Ons: Mix in ¼ cup diced onions, bell peppers, or a pinch of chili powder for extra flavor.
Low-Carb: Skip the stuffing mix and use almond flour or crushed pork rinds as a binder.

Why These Ingredients Matter: The beef and cheese provide protein and richness, while the stuffing mix adds carbs and texture for a balanced, hearty meal. The barbecue sauce brings bold, smoky flavor, making these mini loaves a satisfying, kid-friendly comfort food.

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F.
In a large bowl, combine 1 package (6 oz) stuffing mix, 1 cup water, and 2 tbsp hickory smoke-flavored barbecue sauce. Stir until the stuffing is moistened.

Tip: Let the stuffing mix sit for 1-2 minutes to fully absorb the water for easier mixing.

Step 2: Mix the Meat Loaves

Add 1 lb ground beef to the stuffing mixture.
Mix lightly but thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until just combined (avoid overmixing to keep the loaves tender).

Tip: Wet your hands to prevent the mixture from sticking while shaping.

Step 3: Form the Mini Loaves

Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions (about ⅓ cup each).
Press each portion into the cups of an ungreased 12-cup muffin tin, filling to the top and slightly mounding if needed.

Tip: Use a standard muffin tin for uniform portions, and press gently to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Bake

Bake, uncovered, at 375°F for 18-22 minutes until a thermometer inserted into the center of a loaf reads 160°F.
Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tops of the loaves.
Bake for an additional 2-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tip: Check doneness at 18 minutes to avoid overcooking, and watch the cheese closely to prevent burning.

Step 5: Serve

Remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the loaves cool for 2-3 minutes for easier removal.
Use a spoon to gently lift each loaf from the muffin cup.
Serve hot, with additional hickory smoke-flavored barbecue sauce on the side, if desired.

Tip: Serve 2 mini loaves per person for a hearty portion, and drizzle or dip in extra barbecue sauce for added flavor.