BBQ Mini Meatloaves (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Meatloaf Mixture
01 -
2 pounds lean ground beef
02 -
6 ounces chili sauce
03 -
4 slices thick bacon, cooked and crumbled
04 -
1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar or cheddar blend cheese
05 -
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
06 -
2 large eggs, beaten
07 -
1 teaspoon onion powder
08 -
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
09 -
1 teaspoon granulated garlic
10 -
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
11 -
1 teaspoon yellow mustard
→ Topping
12 -
½ cup prepared BBQ sauce
# Instructions:
01 -
Start by firing up your oven to 425°F. We want it nice and hot to get those meatloaves perfectly cooked with a caramelized exterior.
02 -
Cook those thick bacon slices until they're nice and crispy. Let them cool a bit, then crumble them into pieces. Try not to snack on too many while you're working - I know it's tempting!
03 -
Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in your ground beef, chili sauce, those bacon crumbles you hopefully didn't eat all of, shredded cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and beaten eggs. Add all your seasonings - the onion powder, seasoned salt, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and that bit of yellow mustard. Now get your hands in there and mix it all up until everything's well combined, but try not to overwork the meat.
04 -
Divide your mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each one into a round little loaf. Use your thumb to press a small indent in the center of each one - this helps them cook evenly and gives you a little well for that BBQ sauce.
05 -
Brush or spoon that BBQ sauce generously over the top of each mini meatloaf. Don't be shy with it - that sauce will get all sticky and delicious in the oven.
06 -
Pop those saucy little loaves in your preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, until they're cooked through. Then, for that extra touch of awesomeness, switch your oven to broil for 2-5 minutes to caramelize that BBQ sauce on top. Keep an eye on them - they can go from perfect to burnt pretty quick under the broiler!
07 -
Let your mini meatloaves rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps them set up and keeps all those juices inside where they belong. Then dig in and enjoy your handiwork!
# Notes:
01 -
These mini meatloaves combine all the flavors of a classic bacon cheeseburger with tangy BBQ sauce for a family-friendly dinner option.
02 -
The individual portions cook faster than a traditional meatloaf and are perfect for meal prep - freeze the extras for an easy weeknight dinner.
03 -
Feel free to switch up the cheese or BBQ sauce flavors to create your own signature version.