Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites

Introduction

Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are a bite-sized, irresistible version of the comfort food favorite. These mini meatloaves are packed with flavor and have a gooey, melty cheese center that adds a surprise in every bite. Perfect for game days, snacks, meal prep, or picky eaters, these meatloaf bites are both satisfying and fun to eat. Best of all, they’re simple to make and bake up in a muffin tin for easy portioning.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 lb ground beef (85% lean or leaner)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)

For the Filling:

• 4 oz mozzarella or cheddar cheese, cut into ½-inch cubes (about 12–16 pieces)

For the Topping (optional):

• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin or line with silicone liners.
2. Mix the Meatloaf Base:
   In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix just until combined — don’t overwork the meat.
3. Shape and Stuff:
   Divide the meat mixture into 12 portions. Flatten each portion in your palm, place a cube of cheese in the center, and fold the meat around it, sealing tightly. Place each into a muffin cup.
4. Add Topping (Optional):
   In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spoon a small amount over each meatloaf bite.
5. Bake:
   Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked (internal temperature of 160°F / 71°C) and the tops are slightly caramelized.
6. Cool & Serve:
   Let cool slightly before serving so the cheese isn’t too hot inside.

Description

These Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are juicy, flavorful, and filled with creamy melted cheese. The crispy edges from baking in a muffin tin contrast perfectly with the soft, cheesy center. The sweet ketchup glaze adds a nostalgic, tangy finish that brings all the flavors together. Perfect as a main dish, appetizer, or even a lunchbox favorite!

Tips

• Seal Well: Make sure the cheese is fully enclosed in the meat to avoid leaks.
• Use a Cookie Scoop: For even-sized portions that cook evenly.
• Mini Muffin Option: Use a mini muffin pan and smaller cheese cubes for bite-sized appetizers.
• Drain Grease: If there’s excess grease in the muffin tin after baking, use a paper towel to absorb it before serving.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or pepper jack cheese inside for heat.
• BBQ Style: Swap ketchup for BBQ sauce in both the meat mixture and the topping.
• Italian Style: Use marinara instead of ketchup and stuff with mozzarella and a basil leaf.
• Turkey Option: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner version.

Correction

• Cheese Leaked Out? Next time, wrap the cheese more tightly in the meat and press edges closed.
• Too Dry? Be sure not to overbake, and don’t skimp on the milk and egg which help keep the meatloaf moist.
• Bland Flavor? Increase your seasonings or try adding a teaspoon of onion soup mix or grated Parmesan to the meat.

Enjoy

Serve these Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a dipping sauce like ranch, BBQ, or spicy ketchup. Whether you’re feeding kids, guests, or yourself — these mini meatloaves are big on flavor and fun. Enjoy every cheesy, juicy bite!