Meatloaf Cupcakes Potato Frosting (Print-Friendly Version)

Savory meatloaf cupcakes topped with whipped potatoes and herbs, perfect for dinner or parties.

# Ingredients You’ll Need:

→ Meatloaf Base

01 - 1 pound ground beef or beef and pork blend
02 - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
03 - 1/4 cup whole milk
04 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
05 - 1 clove garlic, minced
06 - 1 large egg
07 - 2 tablespoons ketchup
08 - 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
09 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
10 - Salt and black pepper to taste

→ Potato Frosting and Toppings

11 - 2 cups mashed potatoes, homemade or prepared
12 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
13 - 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk
14 - Salt and black pepper to taste
15 - Cherry tomatoes, sliced for garnish
16 - Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish

→ Assembly

17 - 12 to 16 silicone or metal muffin liners

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with silicone or metal liners, or lightly grease each cup if not using liners.
02 - In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried herbs, and season with salt and pepper. Use hands or a large spoon to mix lightly until just combined to avoid a dense texture.
03 - Divide meat mixture evenly among 12 to 16 muffin cups. Gently press mixture into cups and create a small indentation in the center of each to promote even cooking.
04 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let rest in pan for a few minutes before removing.
05 - In a mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, softened butter, and cream. Whip with an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
06 - Pipe or spoon whipped potatoes atop each meatloaf. Garnish with cherry tomato pieces and fresh chopped herbs.
07 - Serve warm as a main course or appetizer. Optional: drizzle with prepared gravy for extra flavor.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Silicone muffin liners allow for easy removal and cleanup.
02 - For a piped appearance, fill a piping or zip-top bag with the whipped potatoes and swirl over meatloaf cupcakes.
03 - Mix shredded cheddar or Parmesan into the mashed potatoes for a deeper flavor profile.
04 - Cupcakes can be assembled and frozen unbaked; bake from frozen with potato topping added fresh before serving.
05 - These mini servings are appealing to children and suitable for meal prep.