Brush bbq sauce onto raw ground beef mounds, combined with 2 ingredients, into a muffin tin for a family treat I crave this week after week
This 4-ingredient BBQ meatloaf muffin recipe gives a fun spin on traditional meatloaf by using a muffin tin to create individual portions. These smaller servings cook more quickly and evenly than a full loaf. Mixing ground beef with breadcrumbs and eggs helps the meat hold its shape while staying juicy. Topping each piece with BBQ sauce allows it to caramelize in the oven, creating a rich, flavorful glaze in a shorter amount of time.
4-Ingredient BBQ Meatloaf Muffins
Ingredients:
- 1½ lbs ground beef (80–90% lean)
- 1 cup plain dry breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (plus more for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, gently mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, and eggs until just combined.
Tip: Don’t overwork the mixture, as this can make the meat dense instead of tender.
Step 2: Fill the Muffin Tin
Grease a 12-cup muffin tin lightly. Evenly divide the meat mixture and place it into each cup.
Tip: Press the mixture in lightly—packing it too firmly can lead to dry results.
Step 3: Add BBQ Sauce
Spoon BBQ sauce over each portion, spreading it out to cover the tops completely.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked.
You’ll know they’re ready when they feel firm and the BBQ topping looks glossy and slightly caramelized.
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Let the meatloaf muffins rest in the pan for about 5 minutes before removing them.
Tip: This resting time helps keep them juicy by allowing the juices to redistribute.
