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Easy Mini Turkey Meatloaf Muffins: Best Lunchbox Idea

mini turkey meatloaf muffins - featured image

These Easy Mini Turkey Meatloaf Muffins are the perfect lunchbox solution—quick to make, kid-friendly, and packed with protein. Made with simple ingredients like ground turkey, oats, and a touch of ketchup, they bake in a muffin tin for perfectly portioned, moist, and delicious meatloaf muffins that kids actually eat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground turkey (93% lean)
  • 1/2 cup (45g) rolled oats
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) ketchup
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup (about 30g) finely grated yellow onion
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • For topping: 2 tbsp ketchup mixed with 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or olive oil.
  2. Grate the onion on the fine side of a box grater or microplane. Do not drain the juice.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, 1/4 cup ketchup, and 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
  4. Stir in the rolled oats, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly distributed.
  5. Add the ground turkey and grated onion. Use your hands to gently mix until just combined (about 30 seconds). Do not overmix.
  6. Divide the mixture evenly among the 12 muffin cups, using a cookie scoop or spoon (about 2 tbsp per cup). Fill to the top but do not press down.
  7. In a small bowl, mix 2 tbsp ketchup with 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce. Spoon about 1/2 tsp on top of each muffin and spread gently.
  8. Bake on the middle rack for 18-22 minutes, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  9. Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Run a butter knife around the edges and lift them out.
  10. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before packing into lunchboxes or storing.

Notes

Don’t overmix the meat mixture to avoid tough muffins. Let the muffins rest in the pan for 5 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute. For meal prep, cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition

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