These fun meatloaf cupcakes topped with creamy mashed potato frosting are a kid-friendly twist on a classic dish! They’re baked in muffin tins, making them cute and easy to serve.
Who doesn’t love a bit of whimsy at dinner? The fluffy mashed potatoes look just like frosting, but it’s all savory goodness. I love serving these with a side of veggies for a complete meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually use ground beef for its flavor and juiciness, but you can also mix it with ground pork for extra moisture. Alternatively, ground turkey or chicken work well too if you want a leaner option.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatloaf. If you’re gluten-free, feel free to use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats. I often use crushed crackers when I’m out of breadcrumbs; they add a nice touch!
Ketchup: It adds sweetness and flavor to the meatloaf. If you prefer, you can use BBQ sauce or even a homemade tomato sauce. I sometimes add a touch of hot sauce for a little kick!
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are great for mashing. If you want a healthier twist, try using cauliflower! It mashes up nicely and gives a lighter flavor.
Butter and Milk: They add creaminess to your mashed potatoes. You can substitute with olive oil and almond milk if you’re dairy-free, and it still tastes delicious!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Mash for Frosting?
Mashing potatoes to a creamy consistency is vital for that “frosting” look! Here are some steps to help you get it just right:
- Boil potatoes in salted water until they’re fork-tender — about 15 minutes usually does the trick.
- Don’t skip draining them well; excess water can make your mash runny.
- For that creamy texture, add soft butter and warm milk. This keeps the mash smooth.
- I recommend using a potato masher or ricer for best results. Avoid food processors; they can turn potatoes gluey.
- Season with salt and pepper and taste! Adjust as necessary to suit your flavor preferences.
A little patience with these steps will yield the perfect fluffy mashed potato frosting that everyone will love!
Meatloaf Cupcakes With Mashed Potato Frosting
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup ketchup or tomato sauce (plus extra for topping)
For the Mashed Potato Frosting:
- 2 large potatoes (about 1 pound), peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup milk (adjust for creaminess)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 30 minutes to bake in the oven. So, overall, you’re looking at around 45 minutes to whip up these fun and tasty meatloaf cupcakes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Don’t forget to lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin to prevent sticking!
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, egg, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and 1/2 cup of ketchup. Gently combine until everything is just mixed—try not to overwork the meat so your cupcakes stay tender!
3. Fill the Muffin Cups
Now, divide the meatloaf mixture evenly among the muffin tin cups. Be gentle when pressing it down to form cupcake shapes!
4. Bake the Meatloaf Cupcakes
Pop the tin into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Check that they are cooked through—aim for an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C).
5. Prepare the Mashed Potato Frosting
While the meatloaf cupcakes are baking, boil the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water until they are tender; this usually takes about 15 minutes. After boiling, drain them well.
6. Mash the Potatoes
Return the drained potatoes to the pot or a bowl. Add in the butter and milk, then mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
7. Top the Meatloaf Cupcakes
Once your meatloaf cupcakes are done baking, let them cool for a few minutes. If you want to add some extra flavor, spread a thin layer of ketchup on top of each cupcake.
8. Pipe the Mashed Potato “Frosting”
For the fun part! Transfer your mashed potatoes to a piping bag fitted with a star or round tip. Pipe a delightful swirl of mashed potatoes on top of each meatloaf cupcake, just like frosting!
9. Garnish
Finish off by sprinkling some chopped fresh chives or parsley on top for a pop of color and extra flavor.
10. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your meatloaf cupcakes warm with your favorite sides such as steamed veggies or a fresh salad. Enjoy this playful and delicious twist on a classic meal!
Have fun with your adorable meatloaf cupcakes with fluffy mashed potato frosting! They’re sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used for a leaner version of these meatloaf cupcakes! Just keep in mind that turkey tends to be drier, so consider adding a splash more milk or some extra Worcestershire sauce for moisture.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and fill the muffin tins a day in advance. Just cover them and store them in the refrigerator. Bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover meatloaf cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven until warmed through — just be careful not to dry them out!
Can I Freeze the Meatloaf Cupcakes?
Yes, these cupcakes freeze well! After baking, let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently in the oven or microwave.
