Name: BBQ Meatloaf Muffins with Sweet Potato Topping Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lb. ground beef; 2 tsp. cooking oil or ghee (avocado oil, coconut oil or olive oil); 1 small onion, minced; 3 garlic cloves, peeled and minced; 1/2 cup Whole30-compliant barbecue sauce (such as Tessemae’s or The New Primal); 1 tsp. dried thyme; 1/2 tsp. salt; 1/2 tsp. black pepper; 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1 Tbsp. coconut oil or ghee (may use butter if not following Whole30); 1/4 tsp. salt

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 66 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that delivers the comforting flavors of classic meatloaf but with a fun, bite-sized twist, then you’re absolutely going to love this BBQ Meatloaf Muffins with Sweet Potato Topping Recipe. These little savory muffins boast a perfectly seasoned ground beef base enhanced by a tangy, Whole30-compliant barbecue sauce that makes each bite pop. Then, crowning them with a luscious, creamy sweet potato topping adds a touch of natural sweetness and vibrant color, elevating the dish into something truly special and irresistibly delicious. Trust me, this recipe is your next go-to for an easy, family-friendly dinner that feels both wholesome and exciting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with different ingredients before mixing. The top right side has a mound of raw ground meat in pinkish red, with a slightly loose texture. Below it, to the left, is a pile of finely chopped white onions, giving a crisp and moist look. To the top left side of the bowl, there is a thick dark brown sauce pooled neatly. Next to the sauce, two seasonings stand out: coarse white salt and dried herbs with green and brown shades. A striped blue and white cloth is partially visible at the bottom right corner of the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of these BBQ Meatloaf Muffins with Sweet Potato Topping Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture, from the juicy beef and fragrant herbs to the silky sweet potato topping that ties everything together beautifully.

1 1/2 lb. ground beef: The hearty base that’s rich and full of protein for the meatloaf muffins.
2 tsp. cooking oil or ghee: Used to sauté onions and garlic, imparting a subtle richness without overpowering.
1 small onion, minced: Adds sweetness and depth while softening to a tender finish.
3 garlic cloves, peeled and minced: Provides a fragrant punch that enhances the meaty flavor.
1/2 cup Whole30-compliant barbecue sauce: A tangy, smoky component that brings BBQ flair and moistness to the meat.
1 tsp. dried thyme: Offers a lovely herbaceous note that pairs perfectly with beef.
1/2 tsp. salt and 1/2 tsp. black pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every bite.
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed: The star of the topping, lending vibrant color and natural sweetness.
1 Tbsp. coconut oil or ghee: For mashing into the sweet potatoes, creating a creamy, silky texture.
1/4 tsp. salt: Balances the sweetness of the sweet potatoes with just a hint of savory.

How to Make BBQ Meatloaf Muffins with Sweet Potato Topping Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Place the ground beef in a medium bowl and set it aside. In a small skillet over medium heat, warm the cooking oil or ghee. Add the minced onions and sauté until they begin to soften and turn translucent. Toss in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn it. Combine this aromatic onion-garlic mixture with the ground beef. Add the barbecue sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly using your hands or a spoon, ensuring the sauce and seasonings spread evenly through the meat.

Step 2: Shape and Bake the Meatloaf Muffins

Divide the meat mixture evenly into the 12 wells of a muffin pan, pressing gently but firmly to shape each muffin. Pop the pan into the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the interior of the meatloaf muffins is no longer pink and fully cooked through. The muffin form means these meatloaves cook relatively quickly, making dinner prep speedy and fuss-free.

Step 3: Steam and Prepare Sweet Potato Topping

While the meat muffins bake, steam the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes until they are tender—this should take roughly 10 to 12 minutes. Drain off any excess water, then puree the sweet potatoes with coconut oil or ghee in a food processor for a silky finish. If you don’t have a processor handy, mash them well with a fork until smooth and creamy. Finish with a pinch of salt to bring out their natural sweetness and balance the flavors.

Step 4: Assemble and Finish the BBQ Meatloaf Muffins with Sweet Potato Topping Recipe

When the meatloaf muffins are ready, scoop or pipe the sweet potato topping generously over each one. For a more elegant touch, fill a zip-top bag with the topping, trim a corner, and pipe the sweet potatoes onto each muffin. Drizzle additional barbecue sauce over the top if you want an extra burst of tang and smoky flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve BBQ Meatloaf Muffins with Sweet Potato Topping Recipe

The dish shows a thick, dark brown baked meat base with a rough texture, sitting in the middle of a white plate. On top of the meat is a swirl of bright orange mashed topping, piped in three clear layers that have a smooth, creamy look with some sauce drizzled on it. Small green bits are sprinkled over the orange topping. Around the meat and topping, there are bright green broccoli florets adding a fresh contrast. The plate rests on a white marbled surface with a small spot of red sauce nearby and a blue and white striped cloth in one corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To amp up the presentation and add a burst of freshness, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top. A light scatter of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a subtle smoky kick or gentle heat, respectively. These garnishes not only enhance the flavors but also make the dish feel vibrant and inviting.

Side Dishes

These meatloaf muffins pair beautifully with simple, wholesome sides. Consider serving them alongside a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette to contrast the richness, or roasted Brussels sprouts caramelized with a hint of balsamic vinegar for a savory balance. Steamed green beans or cauliflower rice also work well to keep the meal light yet satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Make your BBQ Meatloaf Muffins with Sweet Potato Topping Recipe the star at a casual party or family dinner by serving them on a rustic wooden board with toothpicks for easy grabbing. You can also turn them into sliders by placing the muffins on mini buns with a dollop of extra barbecue sauce and a slice of pickled onion or cucumber for crunch. For a cozy dinner, plate each muffin with a drizzle of gravy or a splash of extra barbecue sauce around to create a restaurant-style presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying, pack any leftover BBQ Meatloaf Muffins with Sweet Potato Topping Recipe into an airtight container and refrigerate. They will keep well for up to 3-4 days, making them perfect for weekday lunches or quick dinners later in the week without sacrificing taste or texture.

Freezing

These muffins also freeze beautifully for longer storage. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen meatloaf muffins with sweet potato topping will stay delicious for up to 2 months. This is a fantastic way to batch prep and have ready-to-go meals on hand.

Reheating

Reheat refrigerated or frozen muffins in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 10-15 minutes from refrigerated and 20-25 minutes from frozen. You can also microwave them covered for a faster option, but reheating in the oven helps maintain the perfect texture of both the meat and the sweet potato topping.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are leaner alternatives that will work well, though they may yield a slightly different texture and flavor. Just make sure to watch the cooking time as poultry can cook a bit faster and you want to avoid drying them out.

Is this BBQ Meatloaf Muffins with Sweet Potato Topping Recipe suitable for Whole30?

Yes, it is! Just be sure to choose a Whole30-compliant barbecue sauce and use ghee or compliant oils. This recipe is designed to fit within those dietary guidelines while delivering full flavor.

Can I prepare the sweet potato topping in advance?

Yes, you can make the sweet potato topping a day ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently before topping the meatloaf muffins to make your mealtime prep that much easier.

What if I don’t like sweet potatoes?

No problem! You can swap the sweet potato topping for mashed regular potatoes, cauliflower mash, or even a cheesy topping if you prefer. Each alternative brings its own charm and pairs beautifully with BBQ flavors.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely. This BBQ Meatloaf Muffins with Sweet Potato Topping Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the barbecue sauce you use is free from gluten-containing ingredients. Always check the label to be sure.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about comfort food made in a fun, new way, and this BBQ Meatloaf Muffins with Sweet Potato Topping Recipe hits all the right notes. It’s warm, satisfying, and packed with layered flavors that bring joy to the table. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, I promise these little meatloaf muffins will delight and become a cherished favorite. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to dinner!

BBQ Meatloaf Muffins with Sweet Potato Topping Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need