If you’re looking for a fun, bite-sized twist on a classic comfort food, these Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are just what you need. They combine all the flavors you love in a traditional meatloaf, but with a surprise cheesy center that makes every bite irresistible. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or even as an appetizer, these little bites are sure to be a hit with everyone.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef: The base of the meatloaf, providing a rich and hearty flavor.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Helps to bind the meat mixture together, ensuring a tender texture.
- 1/4 cup milk: Adds moisture to the meatloaf, keeping it from drying out during cooking.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder, holding the meatloaf mixture together.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and a bit of texture to the meatloaf bites.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the meatloaf with a savory, aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a subtle heat that balances the richness of the meat and cheese.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a deep, umami flavor that complements the beef.
- 1/2 cup ketchup: Brings a tangy sweetness to the meatloaf and helps form a glaze on top.
- 1 tablespoon mustard: Adds a slight tang and sharpness to balance the sweetness of the ketchup.
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese: The star of the dish, providing a gooey, cheesy center in each bite.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh, herbal note to the meatloaf mixture and also works as a garnish.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin or a regular muffin tin, depending on your preference for bite size.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well using your hands or a spatula until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Add half of the chopped parsley to the mixture and continue mixing until well incorporated. The parsley adds a burst of freshness to the meatloaf bites.
2. Assemble the Meatloaf Bites:
- Take a small portion of the meat mixture (about 2 tablespoons for mini bites, or 4 tablespoons for larger bites) and flatten it slightly in your hand.
- Place a small amount of grated cheddar cheese in the center of the meat. You want just enough cheese to create a gooey center without it leaking out too much during cooking.
- Carefully fold the edges of the meat around the cheese, forming a ball and ensuring that the cheese is fully encased in the meat.
- Place each meatball into the greased muffin tin, pressing down slightly to form a flat top.
3. Glaze and Bake:
- In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup and mustard to create a tangy glaze.
- Spoon a small amount of the glaze over each meatloaf bite, spreading it evenly over the top.
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and the cheese is melted and gooey.
4. Serve:
- Once baked, remove the meatloaf bites from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes in the tin. This helps them set and makes them easier to remove.
- Use a small spatula or butter knife to gently lift each meatloaf bite out of the tin.
- Arrange the meatloaf bites on a serving platter and sprinkle with the remaining chopped parsley for a fresh, colorful garnish.
Tips for Success:
- Cheese Options: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even blue cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: These meatloaf bites can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them. Just assemble, cover the muffin tin with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freezing: If you want to make a larger batch, these meatloaf bites freeze well. After baking, let them cool completely, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
- Serving Suggestions: These bites are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad would all pair well with these cheesy meatloaf bites.
Variations:
- Spicy Meatloaf Bites: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture for a bit of heat.
- BBQ Meatloaf Bites: Replace the ketchup and mustard glaze with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky, tangy twist.
- Italian-Style Meatloaf Bites: Mix in some Italian seasoning and use mozzarella cheese for a delicious Italian-inspired version. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are the perfect blend of classic meatloaf comfort with a fun, cheesy twist. These bites are not only delicious but also versatile, making them great for both weeknight dinners and party appetizers. The combination of tender, flavorful beef with a gooey cheese center is sure to make this dish a family favorite. Whether you’re serving them for dinner or bringing them to a potluck, these meatloaf bites will disappear quickly. Enjoy!
