Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are a delicious and fun twist on the classic meatloaf. These bite-sized meatloaf pieces are packed with flavor and stuffed with gooey mozzarella cheese, making them perfect for a family dinner, appetizer, or party snack. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, instructions, and tips for making the perfect Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites. Additionally, weβll provide variations and address frequently asked questions to ensure you achieve the best results.
Ingredients
For the Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 2: Form the Meatloaf Bites
- Shape Meatballs: Take a small amount of the meat mixture and flatten it in your hand. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center and wrap the meat mixture around it, forming a meatball. Ensure the cheese is completely enclosed within the meat.
- Place on Baking Sheet: Place each meatball on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
Step 3: Bake the Meatloaf Bites
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatloaf bites are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160Β°F (71Β°C).
Step 4: Add Parmesan Cheese and Broil
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the meatloaf bites.
- Broil: Turn on the broiler and broil the meatloaf bites for 2-3 minutes, or until the Parmesan cheese is melted and slightly golden.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish: Remove the meatloaf bites from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve: Serve the Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites hot, either as a main dish or as an appetizer. Enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Variations
Cooking Notes
- Breadcrumbs: For a low-carb version, substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
- Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Variations
- BBQ Meatloaf Bites: Replace the ketchup with BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor. Add some BBQ sauce on top before broiling.
- Italian Meatloaf Bites: Add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning to the meat mixture and use marinara sauce instead of ketchup.
- Spicy Meatloaf Bites: Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeΓ±o to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make these meatloaf bites ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf bites ahead of time and refrigerate them until you are ready to bake. Alternatively, you can bake them, let them cool, and then refrigerate or freeze. Reheat in the oven before serving.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover meatloaf bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Q3: Can I freeze these meatloaf bites?
A: Yes, you can freeze the baked meatloaf bites. Allow them to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q4: What can I serve with Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites?
A: These meatloaf bites pair well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or steamed green beans.
Q5: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are a delicious and fun twist on the classic meatloaf. With their gooey cheese centers and savory meat exterior, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Follow these simple steps and tips to create a delightful and satisfying dish that everyone will enjoy. Serve these tasty bites with your favorite sides for a complete and hearty meal!
Whether youβre looking for a comforting dinner, a party appetizer, or a fun snack, these Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are a great choice. Enjoy the rich flavors and the joy of biting into a cheesy center, and feel free to experiment with different variations to make the recipe your own.
