Here’s a detailed recipe for Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites, along with frequently asked questions (FAQs) to help you make them perfectly every time.
🧀 Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites Recip
🍽️ Servings:
Makes about 12–16 bites (depending on size)
📝 Ingredients:
For the meat mixture:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 preferred)
- ½ lb (225g) ground pork (optional, or use all beef)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or plain)
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ cup ketchup (or BBQ sauce)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ small onion, finely diced (or 1 tsp onion powder)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (optional)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For the filling:
- 6–8 oz (170–225g) mozzarella or cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes (½ inch)
For topping:
- Extra ketchup or BBQ sauce for brushing (optional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray a mini muffin tin.
- Mix the meatloaf base:
In a large bowl, combine all meat mixture ingredients. Mix gently with clean hands or a spoon until fully combined—don’t overmix, or the bites may turn tough. - Shape and stuff:
- Take about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture.
- Flatten it into a disc in your hand.
- Place one cube of cheese in the center and wrap the meat around it, sealing it completely into a ball.
- Place on baking sheet or in mini muffin tin. Repeat.
- Optional topping:
Brush the tops lightly with ketchup or BBQ sauce for extra flavor and glaze. - Bake:
Bake for 18–22 minutes or until cooked through (internal temp 160°F / 71°C). Cheese may ooze slightly—this is normal. - Cool slightly and serve:
Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
❓ Cheesy Meatloaf Bites FAQs
🔥 Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes!
- You can assemble them and refrigerate up to 1 day in advance before baking.
- Or freeze unbaked bites on a tray, then transfer to a bag for storage (up to 2 months). Bake from frozen, adding 5–7 extra minutes.
🧊 Can I freeze baked meatloaf bites?
Yes. Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to a sealed bag or container. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes.
🧀 What kind of cheese works best?
- Mozzarella: melty and mild
- Cheddar: sharper, more flavor
- Pepper Jack: for spice
- Gouda or Havarti: creamy options
Avoid overly soft cheeses like brie or cheeses with high moisture that may leak too much.
🍞 Can I use something other than breadcrumbs?
Yes:
- Crushed crackers (like Ritz)
- Oatmeal (quick oats, not steel cut)
- Almond flour (for low-carb/keto)
🥩 Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
Absolutely. Use dark meat ground turkey/chicken for more moisture. Add an extra tablespoon of oil or milk to keep it moist.
🔄 Can I make this into one big meatloaf?
Yes. Stuff the cheese in the middle like a layer or log, and bake in a loaf pan at 375°F (190°C) for 45–55 minutes or until internal temp reaches 160°F.
🧂 How can I keep them from being dry?
- Don’t overmix the meat.
- Don’t overbake—check at 18 minutes.
- Use enough fat (don’t go too lean on the meat).
- Add moisture-rich ingredients like milk, ketchup, or grated onion.
🧁 Can I make these in a mini muffin tin?
Yes! A mini muffin tin is perfect to hold the shape and reduce mess from cheese overflow.
🍽️ Serving suggestions?
- Serve with mashed potatoes or mac & cheese.
- Pair with dipping sauces: ranch, BBQ, sriracha mayo.
- Great for appetizers, lunchboxes, or meal prep.
Let me know if you want a printable version, video tutorial, or custom version (like low-carb, spicy, or kid-friendly)!