If you love meatloaf and melty cheese, then these Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites will be your new favorite comfort food! These mini meatloaf bites are packed with flavor, stuffed with gooey cheese, and baked to perfection. They’re perfect for appetizers, meal prep, or a fun twist on traditional meatloaf. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for an irresistible snack or dinner option!
🛒 Ingredients
For the Meatloaf Mixture:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended) – Juicy and flavorful base.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs – Helps bind everything together.
- 1 egg – Essential for structure.
- ¼ cup milk – Keeps the bites tender and moist.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup – Adds a slight sweetness and richness.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Boosts umami flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – For an extra kick.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Enhances the savory flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt & ½ teaspoon black pepper – Essential seasonings.
For the Cheese Filling:
- 4 oz (115g) mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes – Melts beautifully inside each bite.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese – Adds extra cheesiness.
For the Topping (Optional but Delicious!):
- ¼ cup ketchup – Classic meatloaf glaze.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar – Caramelizes beautifully on top.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Adds depth to the glaze.
💡 Pro Tip: You can switch up the cheese filling by using pepper jack, gouda, or even cream cheese for a different flavor twist!
👨🍳 How to Make Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until just combined. Don’t overmix or the bites may become tough.
Step 3: Form and Stuff the Bites
- Take a small portion of the meat mixture (about 1 ½ tablespoons) and flatten it in your palm.
- Place a cube of mozzarella in the center, then wrap the meat around it, forming a small ball.
- Repeat until all meatballs are formed and place them in the mini muffin tin or on a baking sheet.
Step 4: Add the Topping (Optional but Highly Recommended!)
- In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard.
- Spoon a little glaze over each meatloaf bite for an extra flavorful finish.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Gooey
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the meatloaf bites are cooked through (internal temp 160°F/70°C).
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Let them cool for a couple of minutes, then serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like BBQ sauce, ranch, or marinara.
🍽 Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Mini muffin tin or baking sheet
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Spatula or spoon
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and store it in the fridge up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze the cooked bites for up to 2 months.
Can I air-fry these instead?
Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
What other fillings can I use?
Try stuffing them with cream cheese, jalapeños, sun-dried tomatoes, or caramelized onions for different flavors.
What can I serve with these?
These bites go great with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, mac and cheese, or a simple salad.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in an air fryer for crispiness.
🧀 Conclusion
These Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are the perfect bite-sized comfort food—crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and bursting with melty cheese. Quick to make and packed with flavor, they’re great for dinner, meal prep, or even party appetizers!
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