Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites: A Family Favorite

Introduction

There’s something incredibly satisfying about the combination of meat and cheese, especially when they come together in a bite-sized treat. Recently, I decided to try my hand at making Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites, and let me tell you, they were a hit with my family! The first bite revealed a melty center of mozzarella cheese, perfectly complementing the savory flavors of the seasoned beef. My kids couldn’t get enough of them, and I loved how easy they were to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a fun appetizer, a quick snack, or a twist on classic dinner, these meatloaf bites are a winner!

Ingredients

• For the Meatloaf Bites:
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed (for stuffing)
• For the Topping:
• 1/4 cup ketchup or BBQ sauce (for topping)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin or line it with muffin liners. This will ensure easy removal of the meatloaf bites later on.

Make the Meatloaf Mixture

2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

• Mix until everything is well combined, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.

Form the Bites

3. Take a small amount of the meat mixture and form it into a ball (about the size of a golf ball).

• Press a cube of mozzarella cheese into the center of each meatball and shape the meat around it, fully covering the cheese.

Place in Muffin Tin

4. Place each stuffed meatball into the prepared muffin tin.

• This will help them cook evenly and maintain their shape.

Add Topping

5. Spoon a small amount of ketchup or BBQ sauce on top of each meatloaf bite.

• This adds a delicious glaze and enhances the flavor profile.

Bake

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and the cheese is melted inside.

• Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent overcooking.

Serve

7. Allow the meatloaf bites to cool slightly before removing them from the muffin tin.

• Serve warm with additional ketchup or BBQ sauce for dipping if desired.

These Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are a fantastic snack or appetizer that will surely impress your family and friends!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6 (approximately 2 meatloaf bites per serving)
• Calories per serving: 320
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 480mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 15g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 23g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm straight from the oven.
• Offer additional dipping sauces like:
• Ketchup
• BBQ sauce
• Mustard
• Ranch dressing
• Pair with a side salad or vegetable sticks for a balanced meal.
• Perfect for game days or parties, where they can be served as finger food.

Additional Tips

1. Don’t Overmix: When combining the meat mixture, handle it gently to maintain a tender texture.
2. Experiment with Cheese: Try using different types of cheese for the stuffing, like cheddar or pepper jack, for a unique twist.
3. Add Veggies: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers or onions into the meat mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
4. Make Ahead: Prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
5. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for safety.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
• Herbed Meatloaf Bites: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor.
• Mini Meatloaf: Instead of muffin tins, form the mixture into mini loaf shapes and bake them on a baking sheet.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with:
• A fresh garden salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Sweet potato fries
• For a more substantial meal, pair with mashed potatoes and green beans.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: These meatloaf bites freeze well. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag after baking and let them cool completely. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

• Yes, ground turkey works well and is a leaner option.

1. What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?

• You can use crushed crackers, oats, or even ground almonds for a gluten-free option.

1. How do I know when the meatloaf bites are done?

• They should be golden brown on top, and the internal temperature should read 160°F (71°C).

1. Can I make these vegetarian?

• You can substitute the ground beef with a meat substitute like lentils or a plant-based meat.

1. What dipping sauces work best?

• Ketchup, BBQ sauce, ranch, or even a spicy aioli would pair nicely.

1. How long do leftovers last?

• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

1. Can I stuff the meatloaf bites with other ingredients?

• Absolutely! Try stuffing them with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or different cheeses.

1. Do I have to boil the meatloaf bites before baking?

• No, this recipe does not require boiling; they are baked directly.

1. Can I make these in advance?

• Yes, prepare the meat mixture and shape the bites ahead of time, then bake when you’re ready.

1. What’s a good side dish for these meatloaf bites?

• They pair well with mashed potatoes, corn, or a simple green salad.

Conclusion

Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are not only easy to make but are sure to please everyone at the table. Their delightful combination of savory meat and gooey cheese makes them a versatile choice for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack during a movie night or serving them at a gathering, these little bites will undoubtedly become a favorite in your household. Give this recipe a try and watch them disappear before your eyes!

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