Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). You’ll want to grease or line a muffin tin with non-stick spray or cupcake liners to make sure your meatloaf bites don’t stick.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf bites tough.

Step 3: Form the Meatloaf Bites

Using your hands or a spoon, take a small amount of the meat mixture and flatten it into a small patty in the palm of your hand. Place a tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center of the patty, and then fold the edges around the cheese to form a little meatball or bite-sized loaf. Make sure the cheese is completely sealed inside the meat. Repeat this process until all the meat mixture is used up.

Step 4: Bake the Meatloaf Bites

Place the stuffed meatloaf bites into your prepared muffin tin. They should fit snugly, but not too tightly. If desired, brush the tops of the meatloaf bites with a small amount of ketchup or your favorite barbecue sauce to give them a nice glaze and extra flavor.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meatloaf bites are fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F or 71°C for ground beef, or 165°F/74°C for ground turkey). You should also notice the cheese inside beginning to melt out of the middle.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once they’re done baking, let the meatloaf bites rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the cheese to set, making them easier to remove from the muffin tin. Serve them hot and enjoy!

These Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are perfect as appetizers, a fun family dinner, or even as a meal prep option for the week ahead. They pair beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites

• Use Lean Ground Meat: If you’re using ground beef, opt for lean or extra-lean ground beef to avoid excess fat. Ground turkey is a great option if you want a lighter version.
• Experiment with Cheese: While mozzarella is the classic choice, feel free to get creative with the cheese! Sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or even creamy gouda will make these bites extra flavorful.
• Don’t Overstuff: Be careful not to overstuff the meatballs with cheese—just a tablespoon or so will be enough. Too much cheese can make it difficult to seal the meatloaf around the cheese and may cause it to leak out.
• Add Veggies for Extra Flavor: You can sneak some finely chopped vegetables, like bell peppers, onions, or spinach, into the meat mixture to add extra nutrition and flavor.
• Glaze or Sauce: For a little extra flair, drizzle the meatloaf bites with a tangy BBQ sauce, or a homemade meatloaf glaze made with ketchup and brown sugar. The sweet-and-savory topping gives these bites an irresistible finish.
• Make Ahead & Freeze: These meatloaf bites freeze really well. If you’re prepping ahead, make a big batch and freeze them before baking. Simply thaw and bake them when you’re ready to serve.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites: If you like a little heat, add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or spicy chorizo to the meat mixture. You can also stuff them with spicy pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.
• Italian-Style Meatloaf Bites: Season the meat with Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and parsley. You can also stuff them with a blend of mozzarella and marinara sauce for a pizza-inspired twist.
• Veggie Lovers’ Meatloaf Bites: Add finely chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots to the meat mixture for a veggie-packed version that still has the cheesy goodness inside.
• Low-Carb or Keto Meatloaf Bites: Use almond flour or parmesan cheese instead of breadcrumbs to make these bites low-carb. For the stuffing, use cheese and a bit of chopped spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor.

Why These Meatloaf Bites Are So Great

• Fun & Interactive: These cheesy stuffed meatloaf bites are perfect for parties or family gatherings. Everyone loves the fun, bite-sized portions, and they’re great for kids and adults alike.
• Cheese Lovers’ Dream: The melted cheese inside each bite makes them irresistibly delicious. They have all the richness and flavor of a classic meatloaf, but with a cheesy twist that takes them over the top.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These meatloaf bites can be made in advance, stored in the fridge, and reheated for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. They’re easy to grab, pop in the microwave, and enjoy.
• Customizable for Any Taste: Whether you like it spicy, Italian, or veggie-filled, these meatloaf bites can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences.

Conclusion

Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are the ultimate comfort food, combining the hearty, savory flavors of meatloaf with the irresistible meltiness of cheese. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a fun weeknight dinner, or meal prepping for the week ahead, these cheesy meatloaf bites are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. They’re easy to make, fun to eat, and guaranteed to disappear from the table in no time!

Try them out for your next meal or get-together, and I promise you’ll be making them again and again.