Description
These Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are a fun and flavorful twist on classic meatloaf. Each bite-sized portion is packed with savory ground beef, aromatic spices, and a gooey, cheesy center that oozes out with every mouthful. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a quick dinner, these bites are easy to make and incredibly satisfying. The mini muffin tin presentation makes them kid-friendly and ideal for parties or gatherings. With minimal prep time and readily available ingredients, these meatloaf bites are a convenient and delicious way to enjoy a comfort food favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup (divided)
- 1 tablespoon mustard (optional, for tang)
- 3 to 4 ounces cheddar or mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes (for stuffing)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin or baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, 1/4 cup of ketchup, and mustard. Mix just until the ingredients are incorporated—overmixing can make the meatloaf dense.
Step 3: Form the Bites: Take about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a cube of cheese in the center and wrap the meat around it, rolling into a ball. Place each ball into the prepared muffin tin.
Step 4: Top with Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the remaining ketchup with a touch of mustard (optional) for extra flavor. Spoon a little over the top of each meatloaf bite.
Step 5: Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F / 71°C) and tops are lightly caramelized.
Step 6: Serve: Let the bites cool for 5 minutes before removing them from the tin. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe because it transforms a classic dish into a fun, bite-sized treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of savory meatloaf and gooey cheese creates a delightful flavor explosion. They’re incredibly easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and are a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, the individual portions make them ideal for portion control and perfect as an appetizer or snack.
DRINK Rating:
Pairings: These meatloaf bites pair well with:
- Soda: Classic cola or root beer complement the savory flavors.
- Juice: Apple or grape juice provide a refreshing contrast.
- Beer: A light lager or pale ale can cut through the richness of the meatloaf.
- Wine: A light-bodied red wine, like Pinot Noir, works well with the beef and cheese.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer at parties or gatherings.
- Pack them in lunchboxes for a tasty and satisfying meal.
- Serve alongside mashed potatoes and a green vegetable for a complete dinner.
- Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or honey mustard.
Tips:
- Use lean ground beef to reduce the amount of grease.
- Don’t overmix the meatloaf mixture to prevent it from becoming too dense.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or provolone.
- Make a larger batch and freeze the cooked meatloaf bites for a quick and easy meal.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 18-22 minutes Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes
Nutrition Information: (Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.) Calories: Approximately 150-200 per serving (2-3 bites) Protein: 10-15 grams per serving Sodium: 200-300mg per serving
Conclusion
Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are a delicious and versatile recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Their ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing flavors make them perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. So, fire up your oven and get ready to enjoy these delightful, cheesy, meaty morsels!
Questions and Answers
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
- Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef. Keep in mind that ground turkey tends to be drier, so you may want to add a bit more milk to the mixture to maintain moisture.
- Can I make these ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and stuff the cheese in advance. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also bake them ahead of time and reheat them when ready to serve.
- What kind of cheese works best?
- Cheddar and mozzarella are great choices because they melt well and have a mild flavor that complements the meatloaf. However, you can experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for a spicier kick or provolone for a different flavor profile.
- Can I freeze these meatloaf bites?
- Yes, these meatloaf bites freeze very well. Allow them to cool completely after baking, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- What can I serve with these as a complete meal?
- These meatloaf bites pair well with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables (like broccoli or carrots), a fresh salad, or even mac and cheese. They’re also great with a side of steamed green beans or a simple coleslaw.
