Homemade Meatloaf Cupcakes (Print-Friendly Version)

This May, enjoy savory meatloaf cupcakes combining ground beef, mashed potatoes, and melted cheese for a hearty family meal. Featuring garlic and bell pepper, it's a keeper you'll want later.

# Ingredients You’ll Need:

→ Meatloaf Base

01 - 5 pounds ground beef
02 - 1 large egg
03 - 5 cups breadcrumbs
04 - 2 1/2 cups ketchup
05 - 1 small onion, diced
06 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
07 - 1 teaspoon salt
08 - 5 teaspoons black pepper
09 - 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
10 - 1/4 cup bell pepper, finely diced

→ Mashed Potato Topping

11 - 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
12 - 2 1/2 cups butter
13 - 2 1/2 cups milk or cream, warmed
14 - Salt and pepper, to taste
15 - 5 cups shredded cheese

→ Finishing & Garnish

16 - 2 tablespoons chives, chopped (optional garnish)
17 - 3 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled

# How to Make It:

01 - Peel and cube the russet potatoes. Place in a large pot and cover with salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain well, mash together with butter and warmed milk or cream. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside to cool slightly.
02 - Preheat oven to 375°F. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and finely diced bell pepper. Mix gently to incorporate without overworking. Let rest for 10 minutes.
03 - Coat a standard 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick spray. Evenly divide the meat mixture among the cups, gently pressing to eliminate air pockets. Leave a 1/4-inch space at the top for expansion.
04 - Bake the meatloaf cupcakes for 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and brush tops with ketchup. Using a piping bag or spoon, apply mashed potatoes generously over each cupcake. Texture the surface with a fork, and finish with shredded cheese, cooked bacon, and chopped chives. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and tops are browned.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Allow mashed potatoes to cool slightly before topping to improve piping and prevent melting.

Return