Mini Honey Mustard Meatloaves

As for many people, meatloaf is one of my favorite comfort foods, but without a big family to feed, recipes that make one or two loaves at a time can be a bit much. This recipe, however, is absolutely perfect for feeding one or two people for a just meal or two. It's only a short list of readily available ingredients that go into these miniatures, but they still induce all the warm and fuzzy feelings that a good meatloaf should. Delicious piping hot from the oven with a side of mashed potatoes, the leftovers are splendid repurposed into a meatloaf sandwich topped with caramelized onions and even more cheese. If you want to freeze extra (uncooked) meatloaves, as I did, skip the honey mustard-ketchup mixture and cheese topping until you're ready to bake them. Even if the darkness and cold temperatures of winter aren't to your liking, it's the perfect time to cozy up at home with a hearty plate like this one.

Mini Honey Mustard Meatloaves
adapted from Martha Stewart Everyday Food
serves 4

2 tablespoons honey mustard
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 pound ground beef chuck
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/2 cup whole wheat panko
1 cup shredded cheddar (about 4 ounces)
Coarse salt and ground pepper

1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees, with racks in upper and lower thirds. Brush a rimmed baking sheet with oil. In a small bowl, mix together honey  mustard and ketchup.

2. In a medium bowl, combine beef, egg, panko, 1/2 cup cheddar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Form into four 2-by-4-inch loaves; place on baking sheet. Brush with mustard mixture; top with remaining 1/2 cup cheddar.

3. Transfer meatloaves to oven and bake until loaves are cooked through, 15 to 20 minutes, rotating sheets after 10 minutes.