Meatloaf Cupcakes Potato Frosting (Print-Friendly Version)

These meatloaf cupcakes with whipped potato frosting combine ground beef, mashed potatoes, and savory herbs for a cozy meal option. Perfect for any gathering, a keeper you'll want later.

# Ingredients You’ll Need:

→ Meatloaf Base

01 - 1 pound ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
02 - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
03 - 1/4 cup 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

11 - 2 cups mashed potatoes, homemade or store-bought
12 - 2 tablespoons butter, softened
13 - 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk
14 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Toppings and Garnish

15 - Cherry tomatoes, cut into small pieces, for topping
16 - Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for sprinkling

→ Equipment

17 - 12-16 silicone or metal muffin liners

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 375°F and line a muffin tin with silicone or metal liners, or grease well if not using liners.
02 - In a large bowl, gently mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme or Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until just combined to maintain tenderness.
03 - Divide meat mixture evenly among muffin cups. Press gently to compact and form a small indentation in the center of each portion.
04 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 160°F. Allow to cool slightly before topping.
05 - In a mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, butter, and heavy cream or milk. Whip with a hand mixer until light and fluffy. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
06 - Spoon or pipe the mashed potato mixture onto each meatloaf, creating a frosting effect. Garnish with a piece of cherry tomato and sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives.
07 - Serve warm as a main dish or appetizer. Optionally, drizzle with gravy before serving.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Silicone muffin liners prevent sticking and ease removal.
02 - A piping bag or zip-top bag with a cut corner creates a classic cupcake look for the mashed potato topping.
03 - Incorporate shredded cheddar or Parmesan into mashed potatoes for enhanced flavor.
04 - Unbaked meatloaf cupcakes can be assembled and frozen for meal prep, then baked and topped as needed.
05 - Children enjoy the playful presentation of these savory cupcakes.