1. Make the Meatloaf Mix (5 mins!)
In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire, garlic powder, thyme, salt & pepper. Mix gently (don’t overwork!).
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2. Bake the "Cupcakes"
Press meat mixture into a greased muffin tin (fill each cup ¾ full).
Brush tops with extra ketchup.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 mins until cooked through.
3. Whip the Potato "Frosting"
Boil potatoes until tender (~15 mins), drain.
Mash with milk, butter, cheese, salt & pepper until smooth.
Pipe or spoon onto cooled meatloaf cupcakes.
4. Garnish & Serve!
Drizzle with warm gravy.
Sprinkle with chives or parsley for color.
Pro Tips for Perfect Meatloaf Cupcakes
🔥 Use a piping bag – For fancy swirls (or just spoon on for rustic charm).
🔥 Make ahead – Assemble unbaked, refrigerate, then bake +5 mins.
🔥 Kid’s version – Let them "decorate" with gravy and cheese sprinkles!
5 Fun Variations
🧀 Cheeseburger Style – Mix shredded cheddar into meat, top with pickle relish.
🌶 Taco Twist – Add taco seasoning to meat, frost with avocado mash.
🍄 Mushroom Swiss – Sauté mushrooms into meat, use Swiss cheese in potatoes.
🥓 Bacon Ranch – Mix ranch seasoning into meat, top with crumbled bacon.
🍅 Pizza Cupcakes – Add Italian seasoning + marinara swirls.
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