Q1: What is the absolute secret to a moist, not dry, meatloaf?

This recipe has two main secrets! First, the stuffing mix , when combined with the water, acts as a "panade" that adds a huge amount of moisture to the lean ground beef. Second, the individual muffin shape ensures that the meatloaves cook very quickly , which prevents them from spending too much time in the oven and drying out.

Q2: Can I make this in a regular loaf pan instead of a muffin tin?

Yes, you can. Simply press the entire meat mixture into a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan. You will need to increase the baking time significantly, to about 55-65 minutes , or until the center of the loaf registers 160°F.

Q3: Can I make these meatloaf muffins ahead of time?

Yes, this is a perfect make-ahead meal for meal prep! You can fully bake the meatloaf muffins, let them cool, and store them in the refrigerator. They are delicious when gently reheated in the microwave or an air fryer for a super-quick lunch or dinner.

Q4: How do I know for sure when my meatloaf is cooked through?

The only 100% foolproof way to check for doneness is with an instant-read thermometer . Ground beef is perfectly and safely cooked when the internal temperature in the center of the meatloaf registers 160°F (71°C) .

Q5: Can I use a different kind of stuffing mix?

Of course! This recipe is incredibly versatile. A classic turkey or chicken-flavored stuffing mix would be a fantastic choice. A cornbread stuffing mix would also be delicious and would add a lovely,

The Easiest Cheesy BBQ Meatloaf Muffins

An easy recipe for individual-sized barbecue meatloaves that are conveniently baked in a muffin tin. This simple dish uses a box of stuffing mix as a flavorful binder for the ground beef, along with hickory smoke-flavored barbecue sauce. The mini loaves are baked until cooked through, then topped with shredded cheddar cheese and returned to the oven just long enough for the cheese to melt. They are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Author: Evelyn

Ingredients

1 package (6 ounces) stuffing mix
1 cup water
2 tablespoons hickory smoke-flavored barbecue sauce
1 pound ground beef
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Additional hickory smoke-flavored barbecue sauce, for serving (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F.
In a large bowl, combine the stuffing mix, water, and 2 tablespoons of barbecue sauce.
Add the ground beef to the bowl and mix lightly but thoroughly with your hands until just combined.
Press about 1/3 cup of the meat mixture into each of 12 ungreased muffin cups.
Bake, uncovered, for 18-22 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center of a meatloaf reads 160°F.
Sprinkle the tops with the shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake for an additional 2-4 minutes, until the cheese is melted.
Serve with additional barbecue sauce, if desired.

Notes

This recipe uses a standard muffin tin to create individual, portion-controlled meatloaves that cook quickly.
Using a box of stuffing mix is a key shortcut that acts as both a binder and a source of seasoning.
Be careful not to overmix the ground beef mixture to ensure the meatloaves are tender, not tough.

Find it online: https://cookupjoy.com/bbq-meatloaf-muffins/