Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with silicone baking cups for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Mix gently with your hands or a fork — overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.
Step 3: Shape and Bake
Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups, pressing gently to form cupcake shapes.
Bake for 20 minutes, then remove and brush each with the ketchup glaze. Return to the oven for another 5–10 minutes, until cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
Step 4: Make the Whipped Potatoes
While the meatloaf cupcakes bake, cook the potatoes in salted boiling water until tender, about 12–15 minutes. Drain well, then mash with butter, milk, and seasonings until smooth and fluffy.
(For extra flair, beat the potatoes with a hand mixer until light and creamy — they’ll pipe beautifully.)
Step 5: Frost and Serve
Once the meatloaf cupcakes are done, let them cool for 5 minutes.
Spoon or pipe the whipped potatoes on top using a piping bag fitted with a star tip, just like frosting a real cupcake. Garnish with a sprinkle of parsley, shredded cheese, or crispy bacon bits for that finishing touch.
🌿 Serving Suggestions
Serve these savory cupcakes with:
Green beans, peas, or roasted carrots for a balanced meal.
A drizzle of gravy or extra ketchup glaze on the plate.
Mini versions for appetizers or party trays — they’re a guaranteed hit!
💡 Tips for Perfect Meatloaf Cupcakes
Don’t overmix the meat — this keeps them juicy and tender.
Use lean beef (80/20) for the best balance of flavor and moisture.
Try variations: Add chopped spinach, grated zucchini, or shredded cheese into the meat mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.
Pipe warm potatoes — they spread more smoothly and hold their shape beautifully.
🏡 The Comfort of Homemade
There’s something magical about turning a nostalgic dish into something fun and unexpected. Meatloaf Cupcakes with Whipped Potato Topping take the familiar flavors of home-cooked meals and give them a playful twist that delights both kids and adults alike.
They’re proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be boring — it can be whimsical, heartwarming, and just as delicious.
So preheat your oven, grab your muffin tin, and bake up a batch of these savory little cupcakes. You’ll be serving smiles along with supper.
