Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the meatloaf mixture and fill the muffin tin, then cover and refrigerate up to a day ahead. Bake as directed when you’re ready. Or, bake fully, store, and reheat when needed.

What can I use instead of stuffing mix?

If you don’t have stuffing mix, crushed crackers, dry breadcrumbs, or even oatmeal can be used as a binder. Adjust seasoning to ensure the mixture is flavorful—try dried herbs, onion powder, or extra garlic.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes—ground turkey, chicken, beef, or pork all work well here. Turkey or chicken will result in slightly lighter, leaner meatloaves, while beef or pork gives a richer taste.

How do I know when the meatloaves are done?

The meatloaves should be browned on top, firm to the touch, and an instant-read thermometer should read 165°F (for poultry) or 160°F (for beef) in the center. The cheese should be melted and bubbly for the best bite!

BBQ Mini Meatloaves Recipe

Name: BBQ Mini Meatloaves Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef or turkey; 1 (6 ounce) package stuffing mix (such as Stouffers); 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 3/4 cup barbecue sauce; 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Description

BBQ Mini Meatloaves are flavorful, kid-friendly portions of classic meatloaf, made quick and easy in a muffin pan with lean ground meat, stuffing mix, barbecue sauce, and cheddar cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, these tender mini loaves are topped with melty cheese and store well for delicious leftovers.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Meatloaf Mixture

1 pound lean ground beef or turkey
1 (6 ounce) package stuffing mix (such as Stouffers)
1 cup water
1 teaspoon garlic powder

Topping

3/4 cup barbecue sauce
3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

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Instructions

Preheat & Prepare Pan – Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 12-cavity muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray, making sure each cavity is evenly coated to prevent sticking.
Mix Ingredients – In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey, stuffing mix, water, and garlic powder. Mix until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and the stuffing absorbs the moisture.
Shape & Fill Muffin Pan – Evenly press the meat mixture into the prepared muffin pan, dividing it between all 12 cavities. Use the back of a spoon to make a shallow indentation in the center of each mini meatloaf.
Add BBQ Sauce – Spoon a bit of barbecue sauce into each indentation, using about half of the total sauce (reserve the rest for toppings if desired).
Bake – Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the meatloaves are cooked through and no longer pink inside.
Top with Cheese – Remove pan from oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over each mini loaf. Return to oven and bake an additional 5 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Rest & Serve – Allow the meatloaves to stand in the pan for 10 minutes to set before serving. This helps them hold their shape when removed from the pan.

Notes

You can substitute ground chicken or plant-based meat for a different flavor or to suit dietary preferences.
Use low-sugar or homemade barbecue sauce for a healthier option.
Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or frozen for longer storage.
Serve with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp side salad for a complete meal.
Make ahead by prepping and refrigerating the mixture in the muffin tin up to a day in advance, then bake just before serving.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 mini meatloaf
Calories: 170
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 420mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 13g
Cholesterol: 47mg