Why Make This Recipe
Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are a fun and tasty twist on traditional meatloaf. They are bite-sized, easy to eat, and packed with cheesy goodness. Perfect for parties, game days, or a family dinner, these little bites combine the classic flavors of meatloaf with the melty delight of cheese. Plus, they are simple to make and a hit with both kids and adults!
How to Make Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 small onion (finely grated or minced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or oregano + basil)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (for topping)
- 1 tsp mustard (for topping)
Directions
Prep the oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-count muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
Soak breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 5 minutes until softened.
Mix the meat mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, seasonings, and Parmesan cheese. Mix gently with your hands until just combined (do not overmix).
Form and stuff: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture into each muffin cup. Press down to form a small well in the center. Add 1 tablespoon of shredded cheese into the well. Cover with another spoonful of meat mixture, sealing the cheese inside.
Add topping glaze: In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spoon a little over each meatloaf bite.
Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F / 71°C).
Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before removing from the tin. Serve warm with extra ketchup or a side of mashed potatoes.
How to Serve Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites
Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are perfect served warm right out of the oven. You can add a side of extra ketchup for dipping or pair them with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. They make great finger food for parties and can be served on a platter for guests to enjoy.
How to Store Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave for a quick snack or reheat in the oven to keep them crispy.
Tips to Make Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites
- Do not overmix the meat when combining the ingredients to keep the bites tender.
- Feel free to customize the cheese inside each bite. Try using different kinds like pepper jack for a little heat.
- If you like extra flavor, add herbs like parsley or thyme to the meat mixture.
Variation
You can turn these bites into mini BBQ meatloaf bites by mixing some BBQ sauce into the meat mixture and using it as a topping instead of ketchup.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just assemble them in the muffin tin, cover, and freeze. Bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
2. Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a healthier alternative to beef.
3. What can I serve with Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites?
They go well with many sides, such as a fresh salad, coleslaw, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy them with mashed potatoes or rice for a complete meal.
Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 12-count muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
- In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 5 minutes until softened.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, seasonings, and Parmesan cheese. Mix gently with your hands until just combined (do not overmix).
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture into each muffin cup. Press down to form a small well in the center.
- Add 1 tablespoon of shredded cheese into the well. Cover with another spoonful of meat mixture, sealing the cheese inside.
- In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spoon a little over each meatloaf bite.
- Place in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F / 71°C).
- Let rest for 5 minutes before removing from the tin. Serve warm with extra ketchup or a side of mashed potatoes.