Meatloaf Cupcakes with Whipped Potato Topping
If you’re looking for a fun and delicious twist on a classic dinner, these Meatloaf Cupcakes with Whipped Potato Topping are sure to impress! They’re savory, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make. Each mini meatloaf is baked in a muffin tin and topped with creamy mashed potatoes, giving the illusion of a sweet cupcake—with all the comfort of a hearty meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or kid-friendly meals
- Fun and visually appealing with a comfort food twist
- Great portion control – each person gets their own!
- Freezer-friendly and easy to reheat
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf Cupcakes:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Mashed Potato “Frosting”:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (use your favorite recipe or leftovers)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp milk or cream (adjust for consistency)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
- Make the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix.
- Form Cupcakes: Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups and gently press down.
- Bake: Bake for 18–20 minutes or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 160°F / 71°C). Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- Make the Mashed Potato Topping: While the meatloaf is baking, whip the mashed potatoes with butter and milk until smooth and fluffy. Adjust consistency with more milk if needed.
- Decorate: Spoon or pipe the mashed potatoes onto each meatloaf cupcake using a piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner snipped off.
- Optional: Sprinkle with chopped parsley, paprika, or shredded cheese for extra flair.
Tips and Variations
- Cheesy Surprise: Stuff a small cube of cheese in the center of each meatloaf before baking.
- Add Veggies: Finely diced carrots or bell peppers can be mixed into the meat for added texture and nutrients.
- Make Ahead: Assemble and bake the meatloaf cupcakes in advance, then reheat and add mashed potatoes just before serving.
Nutrition Facts (Per Cupcake)
| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 220 kcal | 14g | 9g | 14g | 340mg |
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6 cupcakes
Final Thoughts
These Meatloaf Cupcakes with mashed potato frosting are more than just a fun presentation—they’re a flavorful, well-balanced, and comforting dinner option. Kids love them, adults appreciate the creativity, and everyone goes back for seconds. Serve with green beans or a fresh salad for a complete meal.