Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the meatloaf bites from sticking.

2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix everything together until fully combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense texture.

3. Make the Cheese Filling:

In a separate bowl, mix together the shredded mozzarella cheese and softened cream cheese. The cream cheese will make the filling extra creamy, and the mozzarella will give it that gooey, melty texture everyone loves.

4. Shape the Meatloaf Bites:

Take a small amount of the meatloaf mixture (about a tablespoon) and flatten it into a small patty in the palm of your hand. Add a spoonful of the cheese mixture in the center and fold the meat around the cheese, sealing it to create a ball or small meatloaf-shaped bite. Repeat this process until all the meatloaf mixture and cheese filling are used up.

5. Bake the Meatloaf Bites:

Arrange the meatloaf bites on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave a little space between each one. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 18-20 minutes, or until they are fully cooked and golden brown on the outside. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for beef or 165°F (74°C) for turkey.

6. Optional Topping:

For extra flavor, you can brush the tops of the meatloaf bites with a little ketchup or barbecue sauce during the last 5 minutes of baking. This adds a sweet, tangy glaze that complements the savory meat and melty cheese inside.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Once the Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil, if desired, and serve with a side of extra dipping sauce, such as marinara, ranch, or more barbecue sauce.

Tips for Success:

• Customize the Cheese: While mozzarella is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack for a bit of spice. You can even combine different cheeses for a more complex flavor.
• Make Them Ahead: These meatloaf bites can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a day before baking. This is great for meal prepping or for hosting a party without last-minute stress.
• Vegetable Add-ins: You can sneak some vegetables into the meatloaf by finely chopping bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms and adding them to the mixture. It’s a great way to boost the nutrition of these bites while keeping them flavorful.
• Freezing: If you have leftovers, these meatloaf bites freeze wonderfully. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the oven or microwave for a quick meal or snack.

Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites:

• Cheesy Goodness in Every Bite: The gooey cheese center is the highlight of these meatloaf bites. When you bite into one, you’ll be rewarded with that delicious cheesy melt that makes every bite satisfying.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re serving them as appetizers at a party, as a snack for the family, or as part of a weeknight dinner, these meatloaf bites are versatile and perfect for any occasion.
• Kid-Friendly: These meatloaf bites are a fun, bite-sized version of a classic family favorite, making them ideal for kids and picky eaters. You can even let the little ones help assemble them for an interactive cooking experience!
• Easy to Make and Quick to Cook: These bites are quick to assemble and cook, making them a perfect weeknight meal or party snack. You’ll love how little time it takes to create such a flavorful, cheesy dish.

Conclusion:

Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites take the traditional meatloaf to a whole new level by adding a creamy, melty cheese center. These little bites are perfect for satisfying your cravings and will impress anyone lucky enough to try them. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a family dinner, or a party snack, they’re sure to be a hit. With their crispy exterior, savory meat filling, and gooey cheese surprise inside, these meatloaf bites will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Try them today and indulge in the cheesy, savory goodness!