Introduction:
Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Bites are a fun and tasty twist on the classic cheeseburger and meatloaf combo.
These bite-sized meatloaf morsels are packed with all the flavor of a bacon cheeseburger, making them a perfect appetizer or main dish for any occasion. Juicy ground beef, crispy bacon, melty cheese, and a savory blend of seasonings are formed into small meatloaf balls, making them easy to serve and enjoy.
The best part is that they’re quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying, offering all the deliciousness of a burger in a compact, easy-to-eat form.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
1/2 lb bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp ketchup (for topping)
1 tbsp mustard (for topping)
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Prepare the bacon: Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain the excess fat and crumble the bacon into small pieces. Set aside.
Mix the meat mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crumbled bacon, breadcrumbs, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until well combined.
Form the meatballs: Scoop a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
Bake the meatballs: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown on top.
Add toppings: In the last 5 minutes of baking, remove the meatballs from the oven and top each one with a small dollop of ketchup, mustard, and a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Once baked, remove the meatballs from the oven. Serve warm with extra ketchup and mustard on the side for dipping.
Description:
These Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Bites are the perfect fusion of two American favorites: cheeseburgers and meatloaf. The crispy bacon adds a savory crunch, while the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses melt into the meatballs, creating a cheesy, juicy bite. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or main course, these meatloaf bites are guaranteed to be a hit with kids and adults alike. The smoky flavor from the bacon, along with the tanginess from the ketchup and mustard, gives each bite a perfect balance of flavors.
Tips:
Make ahead: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to marinate and makes for an even easier dinner prep.
Use lean beef: If you want a slightly healthier option, opt for lean ground beef or ground turkey to reduce the fat content.
Customize toppings: Feel free to get creative with the toppings! You can add pickles, sautéed onions, or even a slice of melted cheddar cheese for extra cheeseburger flavor.
Check doneness: To ensure the meatballs are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for beef.
Variations:
Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Bites: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option. Turkey bacon can also be used for a lighter alternative to regular bacon.
Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based ground meat (like Beyond Meat) for a vegetarian or vegan version. Vegan cheese can replace the dairy cheese, and vegan Worcestershire sauce can be used.
Spicy Meatloaf Bites: Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
Corrections:
If you find the mixture too wet or sticky, add a bit more breadcrumbs to help bind everything together. If it’s too dry, a bit more milk will help.
If you prefer a crispier exterior, increase the baking time by a few minutes or broil the meatballs for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking to get a crispy finish.
Enjoy!
Serve these bacon cheeseburger meatloaf bites hot with your favorite dipping sauces or as part of a hearty meal. Whether it’s a party, family dinner, or just a weeknight treat, these bites are sure to satisfy everyone’s hunger and cravings!