Rainbow Veggie Mini Meatloaf Muffins

• 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
• 1/2 cup finely grated carrot
• 1/2 cup finely chopped spinach
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup low-fat milk
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line with silicone muffin liners for easy release.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, grated carrot, chopped spinach, red bell pepper, and onion. Mix gently until vegetables are evenly distributed.
3. Add the whole wheat breadcrumbs, egg, and milk to the meat-vegetable mixture. Stir in ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper until all ingredients are just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
4. Divide the meat mixture evenly among the muffin cups, pressing gently to fill. They should be about 3/4 full to allow a little room for shrinking as they cook.
5. Bake uncovered for 22-25 minutes or until the meatloaf muffins reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and are cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before removing from the tin to prevent breaking. Serve warm with ketchup or your child's favorite dipping sauce.
7. Optional: Garnish with a small dollop of ketchup or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top before baking for an extra kid-friendly touch.

Chef tips

• If your child dislikes certain veggies, try finely grating or pureeing them to blend seamlessly into the meat mixture.
• Whole wheat breadcrumbs add fiber, but regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers work as substitutes.
• To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats.
• Leftover meatloaf muffins can be refrigerated up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.