Description
These Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are a delicious and fun family favorite. Made with seasoned ground beef and a gooey mozzarella cheese center, they’re baked to perfection and topped with a tangy ketchup or BBQ sauce. Perfect as a party appetizer or a kid-friendly dinner, these bite-sized meatloaf treats pack all the classic flavors in a convenient, crowd-pleasing form.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Mixture
- 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
Stuffing
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
Topping
- 1/4 cup ketchup or BBQ sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin or line it with muffin liners to prevent sticking.
- Make the meatloaf mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, being careful not to overmix to keep the meat tender.
- Form the bites: Take a small portion of the meat mixture about the size of a golf ball. Flatten it slightly, then press a cube of mozzarella cheese into the center. Carefully mold the meat around the cheese to fully encase it, shaping it back into a ball.
- Place in muffin tin: Arrange each stuffed meatball into the prepared muffin tin, ensuring they are evenly spaced and upright.
- Add topping: Spoon a small amount of ketchup or BBQ sauce over the top of each meatloaf bite to add flavor and moisture.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked through (internal temperature reaches 160°F/71°C) and the cheese inside has melted.
- Serve: Let the meatloaf bites cool slightly in the tin before removing them. Serve warm with extra ketchup or BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Use fresh mozzarella for best melting and flavor inside the bites.
- Make sure the meat is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Breadcrumbs can be substituted with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
- For a spicier version, add some chili powder or hot sauce into the meat mixture.
- These bites can be prepared ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.
