Introduction
Who doesn’t love bite-sized delights packed with cheesy goodness? These Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites combine the comfort of classic meatloaf with a playful, cheesy twist that’s perfect for parties, quick dinners, or even as a snack for the family. Easy to make and irresistibly tasty, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone!
Reasons to Love This Cheesy Meatloaf Bites Recipe
- Perfectly Portioned: Each bite is a handheld treat, making them great for parties or lunchboxes.
- Cheese-Filled Surprise: Gooey mozzarella inside makes every bite deliciously satisfying.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour with simple ingredients you probably already have.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Ground beef: The base for our savory bites.
- Breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese: For texture and extra flavor.
- Milk and egg: Help bind the mixture together.
- Onion and garlic: Add depth and aroma.
- Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the umami flavors.
- Italian seasoning: For that herby touch.
- Mozzarella cheese: The star of the show, melted to perfection.
- Ketchup: A tangy topping for a traditional touch.
Possible Ingredient Additions and Substitutions
- Meat Options: Swap beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Cheese Variety: Try cheddar or gouda for a different cheesy center.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Finely diced bell peppers or spinach can be mixed in for extra nutrition.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Mini muffin tin
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or small scoop
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare your mini muffin tin by greasing it lightly or lining with paper liners.
2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients
Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Shape the Meatloaf Bites
Take a small amount of the meat mixture, flatten it in your palm, and place a pinch of shredded mozzarella in the center. Wrap the meat around the cheese to form a ball and place it in the muffin tin.
4. Add the Topping
Spoon a small dollop of ketchup on top of each meatball.
5. Bake to Perfection
Place the tin in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and the cheese inside is melted.
What to Serve with Cheesy Meatloaf Bites
- Side Dips: Serve with ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or marinara for dipping.
- Simple Sides: Pair with mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Cheesy Meatloaf Bites
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick snack.
Can I Freeze Cheesy Meatloaf Bites?
Yes! Freeze cooked bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat directly from frozen in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes.
Resources
Tips for Perfect Meatloaf Every Time” – Food Network
10 Easy Cheese-Filled Recipes to Try”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare them up to the baking step and store in the fridge for up to 12 hours before baking.
Q: How do I keep the cheese from leaking out?
Make sure the meat mixture fully covers the cheese when shaping the bites.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (2 bites):
- Calories: Approx. 120
- Protein: 10g
- Carbs: 5g
- Fat: 8g
Conclusion
These Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are the perfect blend of fun and flavor. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for an easy family meal, these cheesy bites will be a crowd-pleaser every time. Don’t wait—try them out and watch them disappear from the plate!
Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites
Who doesn’t love bite-sized delights packed with cheesy goodness? These Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites combine the comfort of classic meatloaf with a playful, cheesy twist that’s perfect for parties, quick dinners, or even as a snack for the family. Easy to make and irresistibly tasty, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone!
- Prep Time: 15min
- Cook Time: 25min
- Total Time: 40min
- Yield: 24 meatloaf bites
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- Ground beef: The base for our savory bites.
- Breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese: For texture and extra flavor.
- Milk and egg: Help bind the mixture together.
- Onion and garlic: Add depth and aroma.
- Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the umami flavors.
- Italian seasoning: For that herby touch.
- Mozzarella cheese: The star of the show, melted to perfection.
- Ketchup: A tangy topping for a traditional touch.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin or line it with paper liners to prevent sticking. - Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined. - Shape the Bites:
Take a small amount of the meat mixture (about 1-1.5 tablespoons), flatten it in your hand, and place a small pinch of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center. Fold and roll the meat mixture around the cheese to form a compact, bite-sized ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture. - Place in Muffin Tin:
Place each meatball into the prepared mini muffin tin, ensuring they are snugly fitted to hold their shape while baking. - Top with Ketchup:
Using a spoon, add a small dollop of ketchup on top of each meatloaf bite for a tangy glaze. - Bake:
Transfer the muffin tin to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 160°F or 71°C) and the cheese inside is melted.- Serve:
Allow the bites to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them as an appetizer, snack, or pair with a side dish for a complete meal.
- Serve:
Notes
- Cheese Alternatives: Mozzarella is recommended, but you can substitute with cheddar, gouda, or a combination of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Meat Options: Feel free to use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes for dietary preferences.
- Breadcrumbs Substitutions: Panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers work well if regular breadcrumbs are unavailable.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Shape the meatloaf bites and refrigerate (covered) for up to 12 hours before baking.
- Glaze Ideas: For variation, replace ketchup with barbecue sauce or marinara for a different topping.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with dips like ranch, sriracha mayo, or honey mustard for added flair.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2bites
- Calories: 120kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg