Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites – Juicy, Savory & Bite-Sized

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites offer everything you love about traditional meatloaf but in a compact, snackable form. They’re juicy, packed with flavor, and bursting with gooey cheese in every bite. These bite-sized delights are perfect for appetizers, meal prep, or even as a fun dinner option for kids and adults alike. With a crispy exterior and a melty, cheesy center, they bring the best of comfort food into a more convenient and shareable format.

Ingredients

• Ground beef or a mix of ground beef and pork
• Onion, finely chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Breadcrumbs
• Egg
• Worcestershire sauce
• Ketchup
• Mustard
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your preferred variety), cut into small cubes
• Olive oil (for greasing)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin or baking sheet to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated but do not overwork the meat.
3. Form the Meatloaf Bites: Take a small portion of the meat mixture and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a cube of cheese in the center and carefully wrap the meat around it, ensuring the cheese is fully encased. Roll it into a ball and place it in the greased muffin tin or on a lined baking sheet.
4. Bake: Transfer the tray to the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and slightly crispy on the outside.
5. Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf bites rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of color and freshness.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for extra heat.
• Different Cheeses: Try using pepper jack, gouda, or blue cheese for a unique twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers.
• Turkey or Chicken: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative.
• Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap each meatloaf bite in a slice of bacon before baking for an added smoky flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: About 12 meatloaf bites

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked meatloaf bites in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or microwave for 30-60 seconds until heated through.

FAQs

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Ensure the cheese is fully enclosed in the meat mixture and pinch the seams tightly to seal any gaps.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the meatloaf bites and refrigerate them raw for up to 24 hours before baking.

What dipping sauces pair well with these?

Ketchup, barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing all complement these bites perfectly.

Can I cook these in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

How do I know when the meatloaf bites are fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer—they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for beef or 165°F (74°C) for poultry.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese instead of cubes?

It’s better to use cubes, as shredded cheese may melt too quickly and leak out.

What sides go well with these?

Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Can I make these without eggs?

Yes, replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) or an extra splash of Worcestershire sauce for binding.

How do I make them extra crispy?

Broil them for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking to add a crispier exterior.

Can I use ground sausage instead of beef?

Yes! Ground sausage adds extra flavor and pairs well with the melted cheese inside.

Conclusion

Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites take a classic comfort food and transform it into a fun, bite-sized treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as an appetizer, a quick dinner, or a snack, these juicy, cheesy bites are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With endless customization options and easy prep, this recipe is a must-try for meat and cheese lovers alike!

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