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Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites

These Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are mini versions of the classic comfort food, packed with juicy ground beef, flavorful seasonings, and a melty cheese center. Baked in a mini muffin tin for perfect portions, they’re ideal as party appetizers, quick dinners, or meal prep staples. Easy to customize and freezer-friendly!

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef (preferably 85/15 lean-to-fat ratio)

1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs

1/4 cup milk (whole or 2%)

1 large egg

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

1/2 cup ketchup, divided

1 tbsp yellow mustard

34 oz cheddar or mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Cooking spray or oil, for greasing the muffin tin

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

  • Lightly grease a mini muffin tin with cooking spray or oil.

Step 2: Make the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, combine:

  • 1 lb ground beef

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

  • 1/4 cup milk

  • 1 large egg

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

  • 1/4 cup ketchup

  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard

Mix gently with hands or a spoon until everything is evenly combined. Do not overmix.

Step 3: Form and Stuff the Bites

  • Take about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture, flatten it in your palm.

  • Place one cheese cube in the center.

  • Wrap the meat around the cheese and roll into a ball, sealing the cheese inside.

  • Place each meatball into a cup of the greased mini muffin tin.

Step 4: Top with Sauce

  • Mix the remaining 1/4 cup ketchup with a little more mustard (optional).

  • Spoon a small amount over each meatball bite.

Step 5: Bake

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

  • The tops should be caramelized and the bites cooked through.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

  • Let bites cool for 5 minutes in the pan before removing.

  • Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

  • Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

  • Cheese Options: Use cheddar for a sharper taste or mozzarella for a gooey texture. You can also try pepper jack for a spicy twist.

  • Freezing Tip: Freeze unbaked bites on a tray, then store in a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen by adding 5 extra minutes.

  • Meal Prep: These reheat well and are great for lunchboxes.

  • Binding Tip: If the mixture seems too wet, add 1–2 more tablespoons of breadcrumbs.

  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.

  • Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based cheese and milk alternatives.