If you’re looking to impress your guests or simply treat yourself to a delicious homemade snack, these Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are the perfect choice. Combining the hearty goodness of meatloaf with a delightful cheesy surprise in every bite, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon mustard
1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Directions:
Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
Form Meatloaf Bites: Take a small portion of the meat mixture and flatten it in your hand. Place a small amount of grated cheddar cheese in the center and carefully mold the meat around the cheese to form a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used, placing each meatloaf bite on the prepared baking sheet.
Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup and mustard until smooth and well combined.
Brush and Bake: Brush the ketchup-mustard mixture generously over the top of each meatloaf bite, ensuring they are evenly coated. This will add a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully during baking.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatloaf bites are cooked through and the tops are nicely caramelized.
Serve: Once done, garnish with additional chopped parsley for a fresh touch. These Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are best enjoyed hot, straight from the oven, as a delightful appetizer or even as a main dish served with sides of your choice.
Serving Tips:
Presentation: Arrange the meatloaf bites on a platter, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a vibrant touch.
Accompaniments: Serve alongside dipping sauces such as barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for extra flavor.
Appetizer Idea: These meatloaf bites are ideal as a party appetizer. Consider pairing them with other finger foods for a diverse spread.
Main Course: For a heartier meal, serve the meatloaf bites with sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp garden salad.
Warmth: Keep the meatloaf bites warm until serving by covering them loosely with foil or placing them in a warm oven (around 200°F/90°C).
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store any leftover meatloaf bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be stored for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: If you want to freeze them, arrange the cooled meatloaf bites in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Properly stored, they will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place the desired amount of meatloaf bites on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short bursts until warmed.
Quality Check: Before reheating, ensure the meatloaf bites are thawed completely if frozen. Check for freshness and discard any leftovers that have been stored for too long or show signs of spoilage.
Related Recipes:
- Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
- Mini Meatloaf Muffins with Mashed Potato Frosting
- Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf
FAQs:
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe. Keep in mind that ground turkey may have a slightly different texture and flavor profile compared to beef, but it will still work well with the other ingredients.
Can I prepare these meatloaf bites ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf bites up to the point of baking and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply brush with the ketchup-mustard glaze and bake as directed.
How can I make these meatloaf bites gluten-free?
To make these meatloaf bites gluten-free, replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure all other ingredients, including the Worcestershire sauce and mustard, are gluten-free as well.
Can I freeze leftover meatloaf bites?
Yes, you can freeze leftover meatloaf bites for future use. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, ensuring they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Conclusion:
Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a family dinner, or simply craving a comforting snack, these Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are a versatile addition to any menu. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a bite-sized treat that’s sure to be a hit!
📖 Recipe:
PrintCheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 20 meatloaf bites
Description
Enjoy the savory delight of Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites, combining juicy ground beef with gooey cheddar cheese, all glazed to perfection. Ideal as a hearty appetizer or main dish!
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon mustard
1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (additional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
- Flatten a portion of the mixture, add cheddar cheese in the center, and form into a ball. Repeat for remaining mixture.
- Mix ketchup and mustard in a small bowl. Brush mixture over meatloaf bites.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through and tops are caramelized. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
Serve hot as an appetizer or with sides for a main course.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Makes about 20 meatloaf bites