Meatloaf Cupcakes with Frosting

If you have ever wanted to turn a classic comfort food into a fun weeknight surprise, these meatloaf cupcakes with potato frosting are for you. You get perfectly portioned mini meatloaves, topped with whipped and piping-hot mashed potatoes, all dressed up to look just like sweet cupcakes but packed with savory flavor.

The first time I made these was for a birthday dinner and everyone cracked up at how sweet they looked on the table. Now they are my secret weapon any time I want to sneak vegetables or please a picky eater.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Ground beef or beef and pork blend: brings deep savory flavor and juicy texture Look for fresh ground meat with some marbling for moist meatloaf
• Breadcrumbs: help bind everything together keeping the meat mixture tender Choose plain or Italian style for extra punch
• Milk: keeps the inside moist and helps blend the breadcrumbs together Whole milk is best for richness
• Chopped onion: adds sweetness and flavor Use a finely chopped yellow or white onion for best results
• Garlic: gives a robust base note Freshly minced makes a big difference
• Large egg: works as an essential binder to hold your meatloaf cupcakes together Choose free-range if possible for vibrant color
• Ketchup: adds tang and a touch of sweetness Use a high-quality ketchup for the cleanest flavor
• Worcestershire sauce: infuses classic umami and depth Go for a name brand if possible for the most balanced taste
• Dried thyme or Italian seasoning: gives a warm herby lift Try to use a freshly opened packet so the herbs are fragrant
• Salt and black pepper: bring balance and savory sparkle Freshly cracked pepper is key
• Mashed potatoes: homemade or high-quality store-bought make your frosting Use Yukon golds for the best creamy texture at home
• Butter: in your potatoes bumps up the luscious factor Choose real butter over margarine
• Heavy cream or milk: makes your frosting fluffy and smooth Use cream if you want ultra-rich and velvety potatoes
• Cherry tomatoes: bring a pop of color and fun for decorating Look for ripe and firm cherry tomatoes
• Fresh parsley or chives: bring freshness and a color contrast Choose fresh bunches with perky leaves
• Silicone or metal muffin liners: make clean-up and removal a breeze Silicone makes these almost effortless to pop out

How to Make It

Prepare the Muffin Tin:

Preheat your oven to 375F which ensures a steady even bake Line your muffin tin with silicone or metal liners for easiest cleanup or grease each cup very well if not using liners so nothing sticks

Mix the Meatloaf Base:

In a large bowl gently combine your ground beef breadcrumbs milk onion garlic egg ketchup Worcestershire sauce thyme salt and pepper Mix with your hands just until everything is blended evenly You want a cohesive mix but try to avoid overworking it as this keeps the meatloaf tender

Shape and Fill the Cups:

Divide the meat mixture evenly among your muffin cups aiming for about three quarters full Press each portion down gently using your fingertips and use a spoon to form a small indent on top so they cook evenly and hold the potato topping

Bake the Meatloaf Cupcakes:

Slide the filled muffin tin into your oven Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until each cupcake is firm to the touch and measures 160F in the center on a thermometer Let them sit a few minutes before topping

Make the Potato Frosting:

In a large bowl whisk your mashed potatoes butter and cream until they are super smooth and fluffy Use a hand mixer for whipped results Season with salt and pepper tasting as you go for the right balance

Decorate the Cupcakes:

Add a generous mound of mashed potatoes to each meatloaf cupcake This works great with a piping bag for classic cupcake swirls but you can simply spoon the potatoes on and smooth them out Top each with a bit of cherry tomato and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for color and extra flavor

Serve and Enjoy:

Dish up your finished cupcakes while still warm They are excellent as a main dish with a side veggie or serve them as whimsical party appetizers You can even drizzle with warm gravy for an extra cozy meal

I have always loved the way mashed potatoes can transform a dish One of my favorite moments was watching my niece decorate her own cupcake with extra chives then gobble it up with a big grin.

Flavor Boosters

For an extra kick mix a spoonful of horseradish into your mashed potatoes or sprinkle crispy onions on top for crunch. A brush of barbecue sauce on the baked meatloaf base before adding potatoes adds sweet smoky dimension.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your cupcakes with green beans or roasted carrots for a balanced plate. For a party set up on a platter with extra herbs for a festive look. Offer a side of gravy for dunking.

Creative Twists

Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Try swapping in sweet potato mash or stirring cheese into the potato topping. For spring, add mini roasted peppers as decorative toppers.

However you serve them, these savory cupcakes delight every time. Have fun decorating and enjoy a dinner that is sure to bring smiles.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ What type of meat is best for these cupcakes?

A combination of ground beef and pork works well for moisture and flavor, but ground beef alone is also fine.

→ Can I use store-bought mashed potatoes for the frosting?

Yes, store-bought mashed potatoes are convenient and work well when whipped with butter and cream to create the frosting texture.

→ How do I prevent the cupcakes from sticking to the muffin liners?

Using silicone liners is highly recommended as they make removal easier and reduce sticking. Alternatively, grease the tin thoroughly if not using liners.

→ Can I prepare these cupcakes ahead of time?

Absolutely, you can assemble and freeze the unbaked cupcakes, then bake and add the potato frosting topping when ready to serve.

→ What herbs complement the meat and potato topping?

Dried thyme or Italian seasoning can be mixed into the meat, while fresh parsley or chives are ideal for sprinkling over the whipped potato frosting.