The Cheesy BBQ Meatloaf Cups are an irresistible twist on the classic meatloaf, with the addition of tangy BBQ sauce and melty cheddar cheese on top. These individual-sized meatloaf servings are perfectly portioned, making them ideal for both busy weeknights and casual gatherings.
With a rich, savory flavor that combines the smoky depth of BBQ sauce with the richness of ground beef, these meatloaf cups are bound to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or a casual get-together, these cheesy meatloaf cups will leave everyone coming back for seconds. Easy to make and full of flavor, they’re a comfort food lover’s dream.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup milk
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1 large egg
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 cup BBQ sauce
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1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin with cooking spray.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.
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Divide the meat mixture evenly into the muffin tin, pressing gently to form meatloaf cups.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatloaf cups are cooked through and no longer pink inside.
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Remove from the oven and brush each meatloaf cup with BBQ sauce. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each.
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Return to the oven for another 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Cheesy BBQ Meatloaf Cups: A Comfort Food Classic with a Twist
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes have the ability to satisfy like a perfectly baked meatloaf. The rich, hearty flavors of ground meat combined with a mix of spices, sauces, and sometimes cheese, have made meatloaf a staple in homes across the world. But what if we took the classic meatloaf and gave it a fun, innovative twist? Enter Cheesy BBQ Meatloaf Cups – a dish that blends the smoky, tangy goodness of BBQ with the comforting essence of meatloaf, topped with the indulgent melt of cheddar cheese.
The Allure of Meatloaf Cups
Meatloaf, in its traditional form, is often baked as a large loaf, requiring slicing and serving in individual portions. While this method is delicious, it doesn’t offer the same convenience, presentation, or versatility that the meatloaf cup can provide. When you shape the meatloaf into individual portions, you not only create a fun and easy way to serve, but you also give each “cup” a more even cooking time, ensuring that the meatloaf is moist on the inside and beautifully crisp on the outside.
These Cheesy BBQ Meatloaf Cups take this concept a step further by incorporating the rich flavors of BBQ sauce and cheddar cheese, turning what is traditionally a simple meatloaf into an irresistible comfort food experience. The BBQ sauce adds a layer of smokiness and a slight tang, while the melted cheese on top provides a creamy contrast that balances the richness of the meat. These meatloaf cups are perfectly suited for anyone who loves BBQ, cheese, and easy-to-serve comfort foods.
A Twist on a Classic Recipe
One of the best things about Cheesy BBQ Meatloaf Cups is their adaptability. You can easily customize the recipe based on your preferences or dietary restrictions. While ground beef is the traditional meat used in many meatloaf recipes, feel free to swap it out for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground options if you’re looking for a lighter, more health-conscious alternative. The use of breadcrumbs and milk in the recipe helps keep the meatloaf moist, but you could also explore other options such as oats or gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe more inclusive for those with dietary restrictions.
Another fun twist you could try is the use of different BBQ sauces. Depending on your taste, you could go with a smoky, sweet variety, or even a spicy BBQ sauce for an extra kick. The cheese topping can be swapped for other varieties as well – mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp blue cheese would work beautifully, offering different textures and flavor profiles that pair perfectly with the smoky, savory meatloaf.
These meatloaf cups are also incredibly versatile when it comes to side dishes. You can pair them with mashed potatoes, a crisp salad, or roasted vegetables to create a complete, satisfying meal. If you’re serving a crowd, consider adding a variety of sides to complement the BBQ flavors of the meatloaf cups, such as coleslaw, cornbread, or a tangy cucumber salad.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Family Dinners
One of the standout qualities of Cheesy BBQ Meatloaf Cups is how well they lend themselves to meal prep. Their individual size makes them easy to store and reheating is a breeze. Whether you make a batch at the start of the week for lunches or cook them as a quick family dinner, these meatloaf cups hold up well in the fridge and can be reheated in the microwave or oven.
The best part? They also freeze exceptionally well. After baking, simply let the meatloaf cups cool completely, and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months, making them an ideal option for busy nights when you don’t have time to cook. Simply reheat them in the oven, and you’ve got a homemade meal ready in no time.
Why BBQ and Meatloaf Are the Perfect Pair
BBQ sauce and meatloaf are a natural pairing. The smoky, sweet, and tangy qualities of BBQ sauce elevate the flavor of the meatloaf, balancing the richness of the beef. BBQ sauce often contains ingredients like vinegar, molasses, and spices, which bring a level of acidity and sweetness to the meat. This helps cut through the fattiness of the ground beef, while adding a burst of flavor to each bite.
Cheddar cheese is another essential ingredient that enhances the flavor profile of these meatloaf cups. The sharpness of the cheddar pairs beautifully with the smoky BBQ, creating a cheesy, savory topping that completes the dish. As the cheese melts into the BBQ sauce, it forms a gooey, flavorful crust on top of each meatloaf cup, offering a satisfying contrast to the tender, juicy meat underneath.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Cheesy BBQ Meatloaf Cups are a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. For a fun, family-friendly meal, serve these meatloaf cups alongside baked potato wedges or sweet potato fries. A simple side of sautéed greens, like spinach or kale, will add a touch of freshness to balance out the richness of the meatloaf cups. If you’re looking for a more indulgent experience, serve them with a side of mac and cheese, cornbread, or crispy onion rings.
You can also take these meatloaf cups in different culinary directions based on your taste. For example, by adding a little chili powder or cayenne pepper to the meat mixture, you can infuse some heat into the dish. A dash of balsamic vinegar in the BBQ sauce will give the dish a more complex depth of flavor. Add in finely diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor, or mix in cooked bacon for an additional savory note.
A Fun and Interactive Dish for All Ages
If you’re hosting a family dinner or a gathering, these Cheesy BBQ Meatloaf Cups are a fantastic interactive dish. Everyone can enjoy the process of customizing their own meatloaf cups whether it’s selecting their preferred type of cheese, BBQ sauce, or garnishes. Kids can even help shape the meat into the muffin tins and top their own cups with cheese. It’s a fun way to get the whole family involved in the kitchen, making the meal even more enjoyable.
Conclusion:
Incorporating the familiar comfort of meatloaf with the smoky and tangy allure of BBQ sauce, topped with melted cheddar cheese, Cheesy BBQ Meatloaf Cups are a modern twist on an American classic. Whether you’re preparing them for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a special occasion, these savory treats are bound to satisfy everyone at the table. Their easy-to-serve, customizable nature makes them a hit for all ages, while their convenience and ability to be made ahead of time ensure that they’re perfect for busy cooks.
Give these meatloaf cups a try, and you’ll quickly see why they’ve become a go-to comfort food option for so many households. Pair them with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious, hearty meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re craving BBQ, cheese, or just a simple, satisfying dinner, these meatloaf cups are guaranteed to deliver.