Meatloaf Cupcakes with Whipped Potato Topping

There’s something incredibly nostalgic and comforting about meatloaf and mashed potatoes. It’s a classic combination that brings back memories of family dinners and cozy evenings at home. However, this recipe takes the beloved duo and gives it a fun, modern twist—transforming them into delightful Meatloaf Cupcakes with Whipped Potato Topping. Not only do these mini meatloaves make portion control a breeze, but they also add a whimsical touch to your dinner table, making them perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions.

I remember the first time I made these meatloaf cupcakes for a family gathering. The look of surprise and delight on everyone’s faces as they realized these cute “cupcakes” were actually savory meatloaves topped with creamy mashed potatoes was priceless. Since then, they’ve become a family favorite, often requested at birthdays and holidays. The rich, savory flavor of the meatloaf paired with the creamy, cheesy mashed potato topping makes every bite a comforting joy.

Ingredients

1 pound (500g) ground beef

1 finely chopped onion

2 minced garlic cloves

1 grated carrot

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1 large egg

1/4 cup ketchup

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 cups prepared mashed potatoes

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake your meatloaf cupcakes.

Prepare Muffin Tin: Lightly oil a standard muffin tin. This will prevent the meatloaf cupcakes from sticking to the tin and make them easier to remove after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, grated carrot, breadcrumbs, and egg. The grated carrot not only adds moisture but also sneaks in some extra veggies.

Add Flavorings: Add the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper to the meat mixture. Use your hands or a large spoon to mix everything together until well blended. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 3: Fill the Muffin Tin

Distribute Mixture: Evenly distribute the meatloaf mixture into the muffin cups. Press gently to make sure each is compact and fills the cup completely. This helps the meatloaf cook evenly and hold its shape.

Create Space: Slightly press down the center of each meatloaf mound to create a small indentation. This will help hold the mashed potato topping later.

Step 4: Bake the Meatloaf

Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The meatloaves should be firm and cooked through. You can check doneness with a meat thermometer; it should read 160°F (71°C) in the center of the meatloaf.

Prepare Topping: While the meatloaf is baking, prepare your mashed potatoes if you haven’t already done so. The potatoes should be creamy and smooth to make it easy to pipe or spoon onto the meatloaf cupcakes.

Step 5: Add the Potato Topping

Top with Potatoes: Once the meatloaves are done, remove the muffin tin from the oven. Spoon or pipe a generous layer of mashed potatoes on top of each meatloaf cupcake. If you have a piping bag, use a large star tip for a decorative look.