Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites

Instructions:

1. Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a mini muffin tin or an oven-safe dish to hold your meatloaf bites.

2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until fully incorporated. The mixture should be moist and easy to shape. If it’s too dry, add a little more milk.

3. Shape the Meatloaf Bites

Take a small amount of the meat mixture (about 1-2 tablespoons) and flatten it into a small patty. Place a spoonful of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center of the patty. Then, carefully fold the edges of the patty around the cheese to encase it, forming a little meatball or meatloaf bite.

4. Bake the Meatloaf Bites

Place the cheesy meatloaf bites onto your prepared baking sheet or muffin tin. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). The cheese inside should be melted and gooey by the time the meatloaf bites are done.

5. Serve and Enjoy!

Once the meatloaf bites are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness, and serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping (optional).

These meatloaf bites are great on their own, but you can also pair them with mashed potatoes, a side salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites:

• Mix It Up: You can customize the stuffing by adding a variety of cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or even cream cheese for a creamier filling. If you like it spicy, try adding some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the mixture.
• Use Lean Ground Meat: If you’re looking for a healthier version, try using lean ground turkey or chicken. These will still yield juicy meatloaf bites, but with less fat.
• Add Veggies: For a more nutritious twist, you can sneak in finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini into the meat mixture.
• Make Ahead: These meatloaf bites are perfect for meal prep. You can make them ahead of time, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat them in the microwave or oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Freezing: You can freeze these meatloaf bites for up to 3 months. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to eat, bake them directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes.

Why These Meatloaf Bites Stand Out:

• No Messy Slicing: Unlike traditional meatloaf, these bite-sized meatloaf morsels don’t require any slicing, making them perfect for gatherings, meal prep, or quick dinners.
• Cheese Makes Everything Better: The gooey melted cheese in the center takes the classic meatloaf flavor to a whole new level. It adds richness and makes each bite irresistibly delicious.
• Versatile: Whether you’re serving them as appetizers at a party, as a snack, or as part of a main dish, these meatloaf bites are incredibly versatile and can be paired with nearly anything.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are the perfect way to enjoy all the flavors of classic meatloaf with a fun and cheesy twist. They’re easy to make, customizable, and guaranteed to please everyone around the table. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a get-together, these meatloaf bites will quickly become a new favorite.

So the next time you’re craving comfort food with a little extra flair, skip the standard meatloaf and make these Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites instead—you won’t be disappointed!