Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites
If you love the comfort of a classic meatloaf but want something bite-sized, cheesy, and fun, these Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are about to become your new favorite. They’re juicy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and perfect for dinner, parties, or even meal prep. Each bite is filled with melty cheese and seasoned ground beef, making them a family-friendly dish that works just as well for a weeknight meal as it does for entertaining guests.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 cup cheese cubes (mozzarella, cheddar, or your favorite)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin or line it with parchment cups.
- Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and optional seasonings. Mix gently until combined.
- Shape the bites: Take about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a cheese cube in the center, then fold the meat around it to form a ball. Repeat with the rest of the mixture.
- Arrange in pan: Place the stuffed meatloaf bites into the muffin tin.
- Prepare glaze: Mix ketchup and mustard in a small bowl. Brush a thin layer over the top of each bite.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through (internal temp should reach 160°F / 71°C).
- Rest & serve: Let the bites cool for 5 minutes before removing. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Variations
- Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella for sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or gouda.
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- BBQ Twist: Replace ketchup and mustard with smoky barbecue sauce for a southern flair.
- Italian Style: Add parmesan, oregano, and serve with marinara dipping sauce.
- Mini Sliders: Serve the bites on small buns with lettuce and pickles.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooled bites on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or microwave for 1–2 minutes until heated through.
Pro Tips
- Do not overmix the beef mixture or the bites will be tough.
- Use cheese that melts well—mozzarella gives the gooey pull, cheddar adds sharpness.
- For extra moist bites, use 80/20 ground beef.
- If using lean beef, mix in 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter for richness.
- Brushing the glaze halfway through baking creates a shiny, sticky finish.
Nutritional Information (per bite, approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 145 |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 290 mg |
Serving Ideas
- Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic dinner.
- Offer with toothpicks as a party appetizer.
- Pair with roasted veggies for a low-carb meal.
- Dip into ranch, BBQ sauce, or spicy aioli.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble them a day before, cover, refrigerate, and bake the next day.
What cheeses work best?
Mozzarella for melty stretch, cheddar for flavor, or a mix of both. Avoid very hard cheeses like parmesan inside—they don’t melt as well.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
Yes, but add a tablespoon of oil or butter for juiciness since poultry is leaner.
Do I need a muffin tin?
It helps keep the shape, but you can bake them on a lined sheet pan too.
Why are my bites dry?
You may have overbaked them or used very lean meat. Stick to 18–22 minutes and use beef with some fat.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are everything you love about comfort food, packed into small, flavorful bites with gooey cheese centers. They’re fun for kids, elegant enough for parties, and easy for weeknight dinners. With endless flavor variations, this recipe can fit any occasion. Once you make them, they’re bound to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen.
