Description
These cheesy stuffed meatloaf bites combine classic comfort food with bite-sized convenience. Juicy, flavorful meatloaf surrounds a gooey cheese center, making them perfect for appetizers, kid-friendly meals, or meal prep.
Ingredients
- Meats: ½ lb ground beef, ½ lb ground pork
- Vegetables & Aromatics: ½ cup finely chopped onion, 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Binders: 1 large egg, ½ cup bread crumbs, ¼ cup milk
- Flavor Enhancers: 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp ketchup
- Seasonings: 1 tsp Italian seasoning, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper
- Cheese: 4 oz mozzarella cheese (cubed)
- Other: 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing), Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, onion, garlic, egg, bread crumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, ketchup, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Shape the Meatloaf Bites: Flatten a small portion of the mixture into a disc. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center, then wrap the meat around it, sealing it completely. Roll into a ball and place in the muffin tin or on the baking sheet.
- Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush the tops for extra browning and moisture.
- Bake: Cook for 18-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Rest & Garnish: Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm with ketchup or dipping sauce.
Notes
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Cheese Swaps: Try cheddar, pepper jack, or gouda.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace bread crumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
- Turkey or Chicken: Substitute for a leaner version.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread crumbs or omit them.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cheesy meatloaf bites, stuffed meatloaf, mini meatloaf, bite-sized meatloaf, meatloaf appetizers