1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, and any desired seasonings. Mix thoroughly until evenly combined.
3. Take a portion of the meat mixture and flatten it in your hand. Place a cube of cheddar cheese in the center, then wrap the meat around the cheese to form a ball. Ensure the cheese is fully enclosed.
4. Place each meatball into the prepared muffin tin. Repeat until all meat mixture and cheese cubes are used.
5. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and the tops are golden. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Serving and Storage:
Serve Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites warm as an appetizer, snack, or as part of a main meal. They pair well with dipping sauces like ketchup, BBQ sauce, or ranch.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5–10 minutes or in the microwave until heated through. These bites can also be frozen before baking—just add an extra 5 minutes to the baking time when cooking from frozen.
Tips:
- Use a high-fat ground beef (like 80/20) for juicier bites.
- For extra flavor, season the beef mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning.
- Ensure the cheese is fully enclosed in the meat to prevent leakage during baking.
- You can use different cheeses such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist on flavor.
- Use a silicone muffin tin or parchment liners for easier cleanup.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are a simple, flavorful, and versatile dish that can elevate weeknight dinners or party menus. They combine the comfort of classic meatloaf with the excitement of gooey cheese inside each bite. Easy to prepare and fun to serve, these meatloaf bites are sure to become a family favorite.
With minimal ingredients, quick prep, and maximum flavor, this recipe proves that small bites can pack a big punch. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, these cheesy bites are both satisfying and irresistible.
FAQ:
Can I use frozen cheese cubes?
Yes, but thaw them slightly before stuffing to ensure even melting.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
Can I use a different meat?
Ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be used, but cooking times may vary slightly.
Can I make them smaller or larger?
Yes, adjust the size as needed. Keep in mind smaller bites may cook faster.
Are these suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled bites (before baking) for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to cook through.
