These Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are a fun and delicious twist on classic meatloaf. Perfectly portioned and filled with gooey cheese, they’re great for parties, appetizers, or a family dinner that everyone will love.
📋 Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef 🥩
- 1/2 pound ground pork (optional for extra flavor) 🐖
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs 🌾
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped 🧅
- 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 1 egg, lightly beaten 🥚
- 1/4 cup milk 🥛
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 🌿
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano 🌿
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme 🌿
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese 🧀
- 1/4 cup ketchup (optional for topping) 🍅
- 1 tablespoon mustard (optional for topping) 🌿
📝 Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- Mix the ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork (if using), breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined but avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
2. Assemble the Meatloaf Bites:
- Form the meatloaf bites:
- Take a small amount of the meat mixture and flatten it into a disk in your palm. Place a small amount of shredded cheese in the center of the disk, then fold the meat around the cheese to completely enclose it. Shape into a bite-sized ball.
- Repeat:
- Continue forming meatloaf bites until all the meat mixture is used. You should have about 12-16 bites, depending on the size.
3. Cook the Meatloaf Bites:
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Bake:
- Place the meatloaf bites on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are spaced evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the cheese is melted inside.
- Optional topping:
- If desired, mix the ketchup and mustard together in a small bowl. During the last 5 minutes of baking, brush the tops of the meatloaf bites with the ketchup-mustard mixture for extra flavor.
4. Serve:
- Enjoy:
- Serve the Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites hot, with your favorite dipping sauce or sides. They’re great on their own or paired with mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables.
⏱️ Preparation Time: 20 minutes
⏱️ Cooking Time: 25 minutes
⏱️ Total Time: 45 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 4-6 servings
🔥 Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving
These Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are sure to be a hit with family and friends. The combination of juicy meat and melty cheese is irresistible! 😋✨