Mini meatloaf is a timeless comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. Kraft Foods has perfected this classic dish by offering a recipe that’s both easy to prepare and packed with rich, savory flavors. These individual-sized meatloaves are perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, making mealtime hassle-free and delicious.
What makes Kraft Foods Mini Meatloaf so special is its balance of hearty ingredients and simple preparation. We love how each mini loaf cooks evenly, ensuring juicy, flavorful bites every time. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a traditional favorite with a convenient twist.
Ingredients
To create our Kraft Foods Mini Meatloaf, we use a carefully balanced mix of ingredients designed to deliver rich flavor and perfect texture in every bite. Here is the precise list of ingredients you’ll need, ordered as they are used to simplify your preparation:
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80% lean for juiciness)
- 1/2 cup Kraft Original Barbecue Sauce (adds a smoky sweet glaze)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion (brings savory depth)
- 1/2 cup plain dry breadcrumbs (to bind and hold moisture)
- 1/4 cup whole milk (adds tenderness)
- 1 large egg (for binding)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (enhances umami flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For topping:
- 1/4 cup Kraft Original Barbecue Sauce
“Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving a perfectly moist, flavorful mini meatloaf that cooks evenly and melts in your mouth.”
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound | Base protein and texture |
| Kraft Original Barbecue Sauce | 1/2 cup + 1/4 cup | Flavor and topping glaze |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1/2 cup | Adds savory aroma |
| Plain dry breadcrumbs | 1/2 cup | Binder and moisture retainer |
| Whole milk | 1/4 cup | Moisturizes the mixture |
| Large egg | 1 | Binds ingredients together |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 teaspoon | Enhances savory depth |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | Seasoning |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | Seasoning and mild heat |
We recommend measuring each ingredient precisely to ensure consistent results. Using Kraft Original Barbecue Sauce both inside and on top of the mini meatloaves guarantees that signature tangy sweetness that defines our recipe.
Equipment Needed
To prepare the Kraft Foods Mini Meatloaf recipe with precision and ease, gathering the right equipment is essential. This ensures even cooking and helps us achieve the perfect texture and flavor every time. Below is the list of essential tools we use in our kitchen:
- Mixing Bowl
Use a large bowl to combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onions, and other ingredients smoothly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Precise measurements of milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper keep the flavor balanced.
- Mixing Spoon or Hands
We prefer mixing by hand to ensure every ingredient is evenly incorporated without overworking the meat.
- 6-Cup Muffin Pan or Mini Loaf Pans
Individual-sized pans guarantee uniform cooking for each mini meatloaf and make portion control easy.
- Non-stick Cooking Spray or Oil Brush
Lightly grease the pans to prevent sticking and maintain the perfect exterior crust.
- Basting Brush
Perfect for applying Kraft Original Barbecue Sauce on top for that signature glaze.
- Meat Thermometer
To verify the internal temperature hits 160°F (71°C) ensuring safety and juiciness.
- Oven Mitts
Essential for safely handling hot pans when removing mini meatloaves from the oven.
Here is a quick overview in the table for clarity:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowl | Combine ingredients evenly |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate ingredient amounts |
| Mixing Spoon/Hands | Thorough mixing without overworking meat |
| 6-Cup Muffin or Mini Loaf Pans | Bake mini meatloaves individually |
| Non-stick Spray/Oil Brush | Prevent sticking, promote crust |
| Basting Brush | Apply BBQ sauce glaze |
| Meat Thermometer | Ensure safe internal cooking temperature |
| Oven Mitts | Safe handling of hot baking dishes |
Having these tools readily available streamlines the preparation of our Kraft Foods Mini Meatloaf and ensures consistent, delicious results.
Prep Work
Before diving into assembling our Kraft Foods Mini Meatloaf, it’s crucial to handle the prep work efficiently. Taking these initial steps ensures our mini meatloaves bake evenly and develop that perfect flavor and texture.
Preheat the Oven
We start by preheating the oven to 350°F (177°C). This temperature is ideal for cooking individual meatloaves evenly without drying them out. Setting the oven ahead of time allows it to reach the proper heat, so our meatloaves begin cooking immediately upon placing them inside.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Oven temperature | 350°F (177°C) |
| Oven rack position | Middle |
| Preheat time | At least 10-15 minutes |
Position the oven rack in the middle for the best air circulation and even cooking of our mini meatloaves.
Prepare the Meat Mixture
Next, we combine all ingredients carefully to create our flavorful mini meatloaf mixture. Accuracy and thorough mixing are essential here.
Ingredients for the meat mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80% lean for juicy texture)
- 1/2 cup Kraft Original Barbecue Sauce, divided
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/3 cup plain dry breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Mixing instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and finely chopped onion.
- Add the dry breadcrumbs gradually, followed by whole milk, allowing the breadcrumbs to absorb moisture evenly.
- Crack in the large egg and drizzle the Worcestershire sauce over the mixture.
- Season evenly with salt and black pepper.
- Add half of the Kraft Original Barbecue Sauce into the bowl. This integrates that signature tangy sweetness throughout the meatloaf.
- Using clean hands or a sturdy mixing spoon, gently mix all ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain tender meatloaf texture.
Pro tip: Mixing by hand allows better control and prevents the meat mixture from becoming dense or tough.
Once the mixture is ready, we move to portioning it into our pans for baking. This prep work sets the foundation for our delicious and perfectly cooked Kraft Foods Mini Meatloaf.
Making the Kraft Foods Mini Meatloaf
We will now walk through the crucial steps of assembling the Kraft Foods Mini Meatloaf, ensuring every mini loaf has the perfect texture and flavor. Following these methods will guarantee a consistent and delicious result every time.
Mixing Ingredients
First, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, plain dry breadcrumbs, whole milk, large egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Use your hands or a spoon to mix gently but thoroughly.
“For best texture, mixing by hand allows us to control the blend without overworking the meat, which keeps the meatloaf tender and moist.”
Next, fold in Kraft Original Barbecue Sauce—this is essential for the signature tangy sweetness that enhances the flavor inside and out.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb | Base protein |
| Finely chopped onion | 1/2 cup | Adds sharp savory flavor |
| Plain dry breadcrumbs | 1/2 cup | Absorbs moisture, binds mix |
| Whole milk | 1/4 cup | Adds moisture for tenderness |
| Large egg | 1 | Binds ingredients |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tablespoon | Provides depth and umami |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Enhances all flavors |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | Adds mild heat |
| Kraft Original Barbecue Sauce | 1/3 cup | Adds sweetness and flavor |
Shaping Mini Meatloaves
Spray the 6-cup muffin pan or mini loaf pans with non-stick cooking spray before shaping. Divide the meat mixture evenly—approximately 1/3 cup per mini loaf.
Using your hands, gently form the meat mixture into mini loaves. Avoid compressing too tightly to keep the texture light and juicy.
“Tip: Lightly pack each mini loaf so it holds together without being dense. This allows even cooking and a tender bite.”
Place each shaped mini meatloaf into the prepared pan with enough space around each for heat to circulate evenly.
Once shaped, brush the tops generously with Kraft Original Barbecue Sauce to form a glossy, flavorful glaze during baking.
This careful shaping and saucing step prepares our mini loaves for perfect rise, browning, and caramelized barbecue flavor.
Cooking Directions
Follow these precise steps to bake our Kraft Foods Mini Meatloaf to perfection. We ensure each mini meatloaf delivers tender, flavorful bites every time.
Baking the Mini Meatloaves
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) if not already done in the prep stage.
- Lightly spray the muffin pan or mini loaf pans again with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the prepared pans with filled mini meatloaves on the middle oven rack. This placement guarantees even heat circulation for consistent cooking.
- Use a basting brush to apply a generous layer of Kraft Original Barbecue Sauce over each mini meatloaf’s surface. This adds a signature tangy, glossy finish.
- Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. The cooking time allows the meat to cook through without drying out, locking in moisture and flavor.
- Around the 20-minute mark, feel free to brush on another coat of barbecue sauce to enhance taste and appearance.
Checking for Doneness
To ensure our Mini Meatloaf is perfectly cooked, follow these guidelines:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Internal Temperature Target | 160°F (71°C) |
| Time Range | 25 – 30 minutes baking time |
| Tools Needed | Meat thermometer, oven mitts |
- Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of one mini meatloaf.
- Once the temperature hits 160°F (71°C), the meatloafs are safe to eat and optimally juicy.
- If not yet reached, continue baking, checking every 3-5 minutes to prevent overcooking.
- Remove the pans using oven mitts as the pans will be hot.
- Let the mini meatloaves rest in the pan for 5 minutes before serving. This resting period helps juices redistribute for tender, moist bites.
“Perfectly cooked Mini Meatloaf means a juicy inside, a tender crumb, and the iconic rich flavor only achieved with Kraft’s blend of ingredients.“
By following these detailed cooking directions, we guarantee delicious individual-sized meatloaves that are a hit at every family meal.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Kraft Foods Mini Meatloaf Recipe, we recommend pairing these savory individual loaves with complementary sides and garnishes that enhance their rich flavors and moist texture. Here are some thoughtful and delicious suggestions for serving:
- Classic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide the perfect balance to the tangy barbecue glaze on our mini meatloaves. Use butter and a splash of milk for extra smoothness.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli, green beans, or carrots add a fresh contrast and vibrant color to the plate while keeping the meal balanced and nutritious.
- Glazed Carrots or Roasted Root Vegetables: For a touch of sweetness, serve roasted carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes with a honey glaze, harmonizing with the barbecue sauce’s sweet and tangy notes.
- Garden Salad: A crisp mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette cleanses the palate and adds refreshing crunch to the dish.
- Dinner Rolls or Garlic Bread: Warm bread rolls or garlic breadsticks complement the meatloaf’s texture and soak up any extra sauce.
- Additional Barbecue Sauce: Offer extra Kraft Original Barbecue Sauce on the side for dipping to amplify the flavor punch.
| Side Dish | Flavor Profile | Preparation Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | Creamy, buttery | Use Yukon Gold potatoes for the best texture |
| Steamed Vegetables | Fresh, light | Steam until vibrant and slightly tender |
| Roasted Root Vegetables | Sweet, caramelized | Roast with olive oil, salt, and a drizzle of honey |
| Garden Salad | Crisp, tangy | Toss with lemon vinaigrette before serving |
| Dinner Rolls | Warm, soft | Serve fresh or slightly toasted |
“Serving the mini meatloaves alongside flavorful sides not only creates a well-rounded meal but also enhances the comfort food appeal that everyone loves.”
We encourage plating these mini meatloaves with careful attention to balance both taste and presentation. A drizzle of extra barbecue sauce over the meatloaf and sides creates a visually appealing glaze that signals the rich flavors to come.
By following these Serving Suggestions, we ensure every bite of our Kraft Foods Mini Meatloaf feels like a complete and satisfying meal for the whole family.
Storage and Leftovers
Proper storage of Kraft Foods Mini Meatloaf ensures we enjoy its rich, savory flavors even after the first meal. Follow these steps to keep your mini meatloaves fresh and safe to eat.
Cooling Before Storing
Allow the mini meatloaves to cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes after baking. This prevents condensation inside the container, which can affect texture and promote bacterial growth.
Refrigeration
Place the cooled mini meatloaves in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C).
Consume within 3 to 4 days for the best quality and safety.
Freezing
For longer storage, we can freeze the mini meatloaves.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Wrap Individually | Wrap each mini meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. |
| Container | Place wrapped loaves in a freezer-safe airtight container or resealable freezer bag. |
| Storage Time | Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor and texture. |
| Thawing | Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. |
Reheating Leftovers
To maintain the moist, tender texture of the mini meatloaf when reheating:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Place mini meatloaves on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil to prevent drying.
- Heat for 15 to 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Alternatively, microwave on medium power in 30-second intervals, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
Important Notes
Food Safety Tip: Always check for off odors, color changes, or sliminess before consuming leftovers. Discard if any spoilage signs are present.
Flavor Tip: Refresh leftover meatloaves by adding a spoonful of Kraft Original Barbecue Sauce before reheating to boost the signature tangy sweetness.
By following these thorough storage and reheating steps, our Kraft Foods Mini Meatloaf stays delicious, convenient, and safe to enjoy again.
Conclusion
Kraft Foods Mini Meatloaf brings together convenience and classic flavor in a way that fits perfectly into our busy lives. Its individual portions make mealtime simple without sacrificing that homemade touch we all love. With the right ingredients and a few key steps, it’s easy to create a dish that’s both satisfying and crowd-pleasing.
Whether we’re cooking for family dinners or prepping meals ahead, this recipe offers a reliable and delicious option. Plus, the versatility in serving and storing means we can enjoy it fresh or as leftovers without losing any of its rich taste. It’s definitely a recipe worth keeping in our regular rotation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Kraft Foods Mini Meatloaf a good comfort food choice?
Kraft Foods Mini Meatloaf offers classic rich flavors and a moist texture that make it a satisfying comfort food. Its individual size ensures convenience for family dinners and meal prepping.
What key ingredients are used in the Kraft Mini Meatloaf recipe?
The recipe uses ground beef, Kraft Original Barbecue Sauce, chopped onion, dry breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper for a balanced, flavorful meatloaf.
What equipment is needed to prepare the mini meatloaf?
You’ll need a mixing bowl, measuring cups/spoons, mixing spoon or hands, 6-cup muffin pan or mini loaf pans, non-stick cooking spray, basting brush, meat thermometer, and oven mitts.
How should I prepare the oven before baking mini meatloaves?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and place the oven rack in the middle for even heat circulation to ensure consistent cooking.
What is the best way to mix the meatloaf ingredients?
Mix ingredients gently by hand to avoid overworking the meat, which keeps the loaves tender and prevents them from becoming dense or tough.
How long and at what temperature should the mini meatloaves be baked?
Bake uncovered at 350°F (177°C) for 25-30 minutes, brushing on extra barbecue sauce at 20 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
How do I ensure the mini meatloaves stay juicy after baking?
Let the meatloaves rest for 5 minutes post-baking so the juices redistribute evenly, resulting in a juicy and tender texture.
What are some recommended side dishes to serve with mini meatloaf?
Classic sides include creamy mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, glazed carrots, garden salad, and warm dinner rolls to complement the meatloaf’s flavors.
How should leftover mini meatloaves be stored?
Cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze wrapped individually for up to 3 months.
What is the best way to reheat leftover mini meatloaves?
Reheat in a 325°F (163°C) oven covered with foil or microwave in short intervals to preserve moisture. Adding extra barbecue sauce enhances flavor.