Add some fun into your dinner with these meatloaf cupcakes. We love adding “frosting” to the top of them to play up the idea that they really are cupcakes.

Bonus: kids love them and they’re fun to make together!

For the Meatloaf Cupcakes

1 lb 93/7 grass fed ground beef (or sub ground poultry)
2 small carrots, grated (about 1 cup)
½ yellow onion, minced
2 large garlic cloves, minced
¾ cup seasoned breadcrumbs
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
½ cup milk
¼ cup ketchup
1 egg, lightly beaten
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp salt

For Mashed Potato “Frosting”

2 medium potatoes (russet or Yukon gold), peeled and cubed
2 large garlic cloves, quartered
2 tbsp sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
1 cup milk
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp fresh oregano, minced
2 tbsp fresh thyme, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup BBQ sauce, (like Sweet Baby Ray’s or Stubb’s) or our homemade recipe below

Bourbon BBQ sauce glaze

• ¼ cup bourbon
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp honey

Optional extra toppings:

Ketchup, barbecue sauce, shredded cheddar cheese, chives, thyme

Instructions

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Line a standard muffin tin with cupcake papers.
3. For meat cupcakes, combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Using fingers, mix lightly but thoroughly
4. Shape beef mixture into balls slightly bigger than golf ball size. Place meat balls in cupcake papers and press down lightly to fill. Mixture should be level to top of pan and dome shaped. Bake in 350 degree F oven for 20-25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F.
5. Meanwhile, in a saucepot over high heat, place potatoes, garlic, add salt and cover with water. Bring to boil, then reduce heat and cover. Simmer until tender (about 15-20 minutes).
6. Drain water, add butter, milk and rest of herbs and spices. Mash with fork until smooth.
7. Fill a ziplock bag with mashed potato mixture. When cupcakes are done and slightly cooled, snip off one corner of bag. Pipe the potatoes on top of each meatloaf cupcake to resemble frosting.
8. Sprinkle with parsley and serve. Or place under broiler until desired browning, add desired toppings, and serve.

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By Amanda Wood, PRO Medical Registered Dietitian

Check out more healthy recipes here.

PRO Medical’s Registered Dietitians provide personalized meal plans and education to support you in making realistic lifestyle changes and in achieving your individual goals. We have experts in a variety of areas and provide support for adults, pediatrics and families.