If you love the classic comfort of meatloaf but want something a little more fun and bite-sized, then you’re in for a real treat with this Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites Recipe. These little gems combine juicy, seasoned ground beef with a gooey mozzarella center, all topped with a tangy layer of ketchup or BBQ sauce. They bake quickly, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or party appetizers, and the cheesy surprise inside keeps everyone coming back for more. Let me walk you through how to make this delicious twist on a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients often create the most memorable dishes, and this cheesy stuffed meatloaf bites are no exception. Each item plays a crucial role, from adding moisture and flavor to ensuring just the right texture and that irresistible melty cheese center.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base that gives these bites their rich, meaty flavor.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the mixture and keeps the meatloaf bites tender.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a subtle, savory depth that pairs beautifully with beef.
- 1 egg: Acts as a natural binder to hold everything together.
- 1/4 cup milk: Keeps the mixture moist and soft while baking.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Brings a tangy umami punch for more complex flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a warm, aromatic note.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a gentle sweetness without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to round out the flavors.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed: The ooey-gooey surprise in the center that melts perfectly when baked.
- 1/4 cup ketchup or BBQ sauce: Gives a shiny, tangy topping that caramelizes slightly in the oven.
How to Make Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) and preparing your muffin tin with either grease or liners. This step ensures your meatloaf bites won’t stick and will come out perfectly shaped.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Remember to mix gently to avoid overworking the meat, which can make the bites tough—just combine until everything is evenly incorporated.
Step 3: Form Your Bites and Stuff Them
Take a portion of the meat mixture roughly the size of a golf ball, then press a cube of mozzarella cheese into the center. Carefully mold the meat around the cheese to seal it completely. This step is key to achieving that delightful cheesy center.
Step 4: Arrange in Muffin Tin
Place each stuffed meatball into your prepared muffin tin, ensuring they fit snugly but aren’t packed too tightly—the heat needs to circulate for even cooking.
Step 5: Add Toppings and Bake
Spoon a small amount of ketchup or BBQ sauce on top of each bite. This adds a tangy glaze that caramelizes as the bites bake. Pop the tin in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and the cheese inside is melted and gooey.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once done, let those beauties cool for a few minutes before popping them out of the tin. Serving them warm makes all the difference, allowing the cheese to stay deliciously melty inside.
How to Serve Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives turns these bites into little flavor bombs of green freshness and color. You can also dust a bit more grated Parmesan over the top for extra cheesiness.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside classic mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the meatloaf bites. Roasted veggies or even simple steamed broccoli also make fantastic companions for this dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Try skewering a couple of these cheesy bites on toothpicks for a fun appetizer platter with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo. They’re also great served with sliders buns and a swipe of your favorite sauce for mini meatloaf sandwiches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool your leftover cheesy stuffed meatloaf bites completely before storing them in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making for quick and tasty snacks or meal additions during the week.
Freezing
You can freeze these meatloaf bites individually on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. This way, they won’t stick together and can be conveniently reheated one at a time. They’ll stay good for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through to keep the texture just right. Alternatively, a quick zap in the microwave works in a pinch, but the oven method is best to preserve that flavorful crust.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese inside the meatloaf bites?
Absolutely! Mozzarella is classic for its meltability, but feel free to experiment with cheddar, pepper jack, or even a mix of cheeses to suit your taste.
Are these meatloaf bites gluten-free?
They can be, if you swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs. This simple substitution makes the recipe accessible to those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I make the meatloaf mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape the bites a few hours ahead or overnight in the fridge before baking, which can even deepen the flavors.
What can I use instead of ketchup or BBQ sauce for the topping?
Try tomato paste mixed with a bit of honey and mustard for a tangy glaze, or even a thin spread of marinara sauce for a different flavor profile.
Is it okay to bake these bites without a muffin tin?
You could bake them on a baking sheet, but using a muffin tin helps keep their shape uniform and prevents them from spreading out, which is ideal for this recipe.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re just as excited as I am to try this Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites Recipe at home. It’s a perfect blend of comfort and fun, delivering cheesy goodness in every bite. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together, these meatloaf bites are sure to be a hit you’ll want to make again and again.
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Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 stuffed meatloaf bites
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are a delicious and fun twist on traditional meatloaf. Perfectly seasoned ground beef surrounds gooey mozzarella cheese, baked to juicy perfection in a muffin tin. Ideal as a family-friendly appetizer or main dish, these bites bring comfort food to bite-sized form with a savory ketchup or BBQ sauce topping.
Ingredients
Meatloaf Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Stuffing
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
Topping
- 1/4 cup ketchup or BBQ sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin or line it with muffin liners to prevent sticking.
- Make the meatloaf mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until well combined, taking care not to overwork the meat which could make it tough.
- Form the bites: Take a golf ball-sized portion of the meat mixture and flatten it slightly. Press a cube of mozzarella cheese into the center, then carefully shape the meat around the cheese, sealing it completely to form a ball.
- Place in muffin tin: Arrange each stuffed meatball into the prepared muffin tin cups.
- Add topping: Spoon a small amount of ketchup or BBQ sauce on top of each meatloaf bite for added flavor and a beautiful glaze.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the meat is fully cooked (internal temperature 160°F/71°C) and the cheese inside is melted.
- Serve: Allow the meatloaf bites to cool slightly before removing from the muffin tin. Serve warm with extra ketchup or BBQ sauce for dipping.
Notes
- For a juicier meatloaf bite, avoid overmixing the meat mixture.
- You can swap mozzarella cheese with cheddar or pepper jack for different flavors.
- Breadcrumbs help bind the meat, but panko or gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used as alternatives.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meat reaches a safe internal temperature.
- These bites can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen for quick reheating.
