Introduction
Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are a delicious, bite-sized twist on the classic meatloaf. Each mini meatball is packed with savory flavor and a hidden pocket of gooey melted cheese in the center. They’re easy to make, perfect for entertaining, meal prep, or feeding kids, and they bake up quickly in a muffin tin or on a sheet tray. Whether you’re craving comfort food or need a quick party appetizer, these meatloaf bites deliver big flavor in a small, cheesy package.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf Mixture:
1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
1/4 cup finely diced onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tbsp ketchup (plus more for topping)
1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
For the Cheese Filling:
4–6 oz cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack cheese, cut into small cubes
Optional Garnish:
Chopped fresh parsley
Extra ketchup or BBQ sauce for topping
Instructions
Preheat Oven:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined but don’t overwork the mixture.
Stuff with Cheese:
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a cube of cheese in the center and form the meat around it into a ball. Repeat with remaining mixture.
Bake:
Place each meatball into a muffin tin or on the baking sheet. Top each with a small dab of ketchup or BBQ sauce if desired. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Serve:
Let rest for 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm.
Description
Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are juicy, flavorful, and bursting with melty cheese inside. They have all the cozy flavors of classic meatloaf, but in a fun, handheld form. The crispy edges and soft center with gooey cheese make every bite irresistible. Ideal for parties, snacks, or family dinners, they’re sure to become a go-to favorite.
Tips
Use a scoop: A cookie scoop helps portion meat evenly.
Fully seal the cheese inside: This keeps it from oozing out while baking.
Make-ahead option: Prepare and refrigerate the uncooked bites a day ahead.
Freeze for later: Bake and freeze in a single layer. Reheat in oven or air fryer.
Variations
BBQ Flavor: Use BBQ sauce instead of ketchup in the mix and on top.
Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or use pepper jack cheese.
Bacon Lovers: Add chopped cooked bacon to the meat mixture or wrap bacon around each bite.
Mini Slider Version: Serve on slider buns with lettuce and pickles.
Corrections
Too dry? Add an extra tablespoon of milk or use 80/20 ground beef.
Falling apart? Add a bit more breadcrumbs or another egg to bind.
Cheese leaking out? Make sure meat completely encloses the cheese.
Enjoy
Serve these Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites hot with your favorite dipping sauce—ketchup, ranch, or BBQ—for the ultimate comfort snack. Whether for dinner, a lunchbox treat, or a party tray, every bite is packed with cheesy goodness and classic flavor. Enjoy!