Introduction:
Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are a delicious twist on the classic meatloaf. These bite-sized meatloafs are stuffed with gooey melted cheese, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal or appetizer. Perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or gatherings, these meatloaf bites are easy to make, customizable, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup milk
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Filling:
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a mini muffin tin.
Prepare the meat mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped onion, garlic, milk, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Stuff the meatballs: Take a small portion of the meat mixture (about a tablespoon) and flatten it into a small patty in the palm of your hand. Place a teaspoon of mozzarella cheese and a small dollop of cream cheese in the center. Carefully fold the meat around the cheese to form a ball or small meatloaf bite, ensuring the cheese is fully enclosed.
Place the meatloaf bites on the prepared baking sheet or into the mini muffin tin, leaving a little space between each one.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatloaf bites are cooked through and golden brown on the outside. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
Serve and enjoy! Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Description:
Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are perfect for those who love both meatloaf and cheese. These mini bites are made by wrapping a cheesy filling in a seasoned ground meat mixture, creating a flavorful and fun twist on the classic dish.
They’re simple to make and easy to customize with different types of cheese or additional ingredients.
Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a special occasion, these cheesy bites are bound to be a hit!
Tips:
Use lean meat: You can opt for lean ground beef, turkey, or chicken for a healthier version.
Add extra flavor: Mix in some Italian seasoning, chili flakes, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor in the meat mixture.
Make ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf bites and store them in the fridge for up to 1 day before baking.
Cheese variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, like cheddar, gouda, or even cream cheese with herbs, to change up the flavor.
Variations:
Veggie-packed version: Add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the meat mixture for added texture and nutrition.
Bacon: Chop up some cooked bacon and mix it into the meat mixture for a smoky flavor.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats as a substitute for regular breadcrumbs if you’re following a gluten-free diet.
Corrections:
If the meatloaf bites are a bit dry, try adding a bit more milk or an extra egg to the meat mixture for moisture.
If the cheese is oozing out while baking, make sure the meat is securely wrapped around the filling. You can also bake them on a baking sheet with a lip to prevent cheese from dripping out.
Enjoy!
These Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are the perfect combination of savory meat and creamy cheese, making every bite a delight. Serve them as a main dish with your favorite sides or as an appetizer at your next gathering. No matter how you enjoy them, they’re sure to be a favorite!