These mini meatloaves bring a sweet and savory twist to a classic comfort food. Grated apple adds moisture and a hint of sweetness, while a brown sugar bourbon-infused BBQ glaze creates a smoky, caramelized finish. Served with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted green beans, this meal is sure to become a new favorite.
Perfect for a weeknight dinner, these individual loaves cook quickly and are packed with flavor. The combination of ground beef, panko breadcrumbs and scallions ensures a tender texture, while the glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Pair with the sides for a complete and satisfying plate.
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Recipe details
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Ingredients
Instructions
- Adjust rack to top position (middle and top positions for 4 servings) and preheat oven to 425°F. Wash and dry produce. Dice potatoes into ½-inch pieces. Zest and quarter lemon. Halve and core apple; grate one half on the largest holes of a box grater (use whole apple for 4). Trim and thinly slice scallions, separating whites from greens; mince whites.
- Place potatoes in a medium pot with enough salted water to cover by 2 inches. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, 15-20 minutes. Reserve ½ cup potato cooking liquid, then drain and return potatoes to pot. Keep covered off heat until ready to mash.
- While potatoes cook, in a small bowl, combine BBQ sauce, 1 tsp Brown Sugar Bourbon Seasoning (2 tsp for 4 servings) and a squeeze of lemon juice. (You’ll use the remaining Brown Sugar Bourbon Seasoning in the next step.) Taste and season with pepper and more lemon juice if desired.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, grated apple, scallion whites, panko, remaining Brown Sugar Bourbon Seasoning, ½ tsp salt (1 tsp for 4 servings) and pepper. Form into two 1-inch-tall loaves (four loaves for 4). Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly oil. Place meatloaves on one side of prepared sheet; top with half the glaze (you’ll use the rest in the next step). (For 4, spread meatloaves out across entire sheet; roast on middle rack.) Roast on top rack for 10 minutes (they’ll finish cooking in the next step).
- Meanwhile, trim green beans if necessary. Toss in a medium bowl with a drizzle of oil, salt and pepper. Once meatloaves have roasted 10 minutes, remove sheet from oven; carefully add green beans to empty side. (For 4 servings, add green beans to a second sheet; roast on top rack.) Roast for 10 minutes, then remove from oven once more. Carefully brush meatloaves with remaining glaze. Return to oven until meatloaves are cooked through, glaze is tacky and green beans are tender, 4-5 minutes more.
- Meanwhile, mash potatoes with sour cream and 2 TBSP butter (4 TBSP for 4 servings) until smooth and creamy, adding splashes of reserved potato cooking liquid as needed. Season with salt and pepper.
- Carefully toss green beans with lemon zest. Divide meatloaves, mashed potatoes and green beans between plates. Sprinkle with scallion greens and serve.
Recipe Tips
For extra flavor, use a microplane to zest the lemon directly over the green beans.
If you prefer a thicker glaze, simmer the BBQ sauce mixture in a small saucepan for 2-3 minutes before brushing.
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for beef. Keep in mind that turkey is leaner, so the meatloaves may be slightly less moist. You can add an extra tablespoon of panko or a splash of milk to help.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover meatloaves, mashed potatoes and green beans separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I make the meatloaves ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaves up to the point of glazing and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, add the glaze and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.



























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