Indulge in the comforting flavors of home-cooked goodness with our Amish-inspired Cheesy Mini Meatloaf. Each bite is a perfect balance of savory meat, sweet onion, and gooey melted cheddar cheese. Simple yet satisfying, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite for generations to come.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup quick oats
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 pound ground beef (or a combination of ground beef and pork)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet or a baking dish by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with cooking spray.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped onion, egg, quick oats, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add the ground beef to the bowl and mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
- Form the Mini Meatloaves:
- Divide the meat mixture into equal portions and shape them into mini meatloaves, about 3-4 inches long and 1 inch thick. Place them on the prepared baking sheet or dish, leaving some space between each meatloaf.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the baking sheet or dish in the preheated oven and bake the mini meatloaves for 25-30 minutes, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- If desired, you can brush the tops of the meatloaves with ketchup or barbecue sauce during the last 5-10 minutes of baking for added flavor and a glossy finish.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the mini meatloaves are cooked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp salad, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic dish!
Cook’s Tips and Variations:
- Meat Options: Experiment with different combinations of ground meat, such as ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of beef and pork, to customize the flavor and texture of your mini meatloaves.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to swap out the cheddar cheese for other types of cheese, such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss, to change up the flavor profile of the dish.
- Herbaceous Twist: Add a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary, to the meat mixture for an extra burst of flavor and freshness.
- Vegetable Additions: Sneak in some extra veggies by adding finely diced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the meat mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?
- Yes, you can substitute old-fashioned oats for quick oats in this recipe. Just be aware that old-fashioned oats may have a slightly different texture, but they will still work as a binder for the meatloaf.
- Can I make these mini meatloaves ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the mini meatloaves up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply cover the baking sheet or dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate until needed. Bake according to the instructions when you’re ready to enjoy them.
- Can I freeze these mini meatloaves?
- Yes, these mini meatloaves freeze well. Once baked and cooled, you can individually wrap them in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
- What can I serve with these mini meatloaves?
- These mini meatloaves pair well with a variety of side dishes. Some classic options include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, or a simple side salad. You can also serve them with dinner rolls or crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce.
- Can I add other ingredients to the meat mixture?
- Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and add additional ingredients to customize the flavor of your mini meatloaves. Some popular additions include diced bell peppers, grated carrots, chopped spinach, or even cooked bacon bits for extra flavor.
More Delicious Ideas:
- Bacon-Wrapped Goodness: For an extra indulgent twist, wrap each mini meatloaf with a strip of bacon before baking. The bacon adds a smoky flavor and crispy texture that pairs perfectly with the savory meatloaf.
- Barbecue Glaze: Instead of ketchup or barbecue sauce, brush the mini meatloaves with a homemade barbecue glaze made with ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard for a sweet and tangy finish.
- Stuffed Mini Meatloaves: Get creative by stuffing the mini meatloaves with your favorite ingredients, such as shredded cheese, sautéed mushrooms, or caramelized onions, for a surprise burst of flavor in every bite.
- Mini Meatloaf Sliders: Serve these mini meatloaves on slider buns with a dollop of barbecue sauce or creamy coleslaw for a fun and flavorful twist on traditional meatloaf sandwiches.
Our Amish Cheesy Mini Meatloaves are a testament to the timeless appeal of classic comfort food. With their simple yet satisfying flavors and easy preparation, they’re sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving a cozy dinner at home, these mini meatloaves are guaranteed to hit the spot. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the delicious taste of homemade goodness
