Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites

Absolutely! Here’s a detailed recipe for Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites that are perfect as appetizers or a fun dinner twist. I’ll break it down step by step with ingredients, preparation, and cooking directions.

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Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef & pork)

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 large egg

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

• 1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs (optional)

For the Cheese Filling:

• 4 oz (115 g) cheddar cheese or mozzarella, cut into small cubes

• Optional: add small diced cooked bacon or jalapeños for extra flavor

For the Glaze (Optional but recommended):

• 1/4 cup ketchup

• 1 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a mini muffin pan.

2. Prepare the Meat Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:

   • Ground beef

   • Breadcrumbs

   • Milk

   • Onion

   • Garlic

   • Egg

   • Worcestershire sauce

   • Salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs

2. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.

3. Shape and Stuff the Bites

1. Take a small portion of the meat mixture (about 1.5–2 tbsp).

2. Flatten it into a small patty in your palm.

3. Place 1 cube of cheese in the center.

4. Fold the meat around the cheese, rolling it into a bite-sized ball.

5. Place the stuffed meatball on the prepared baking sheet or mini muffin pan.

6. Repeat until all meat mixture is used.

4. Add the Glaze

• In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard.

• Brush the glaze lightly over the top of each meatball.

5. Bake

• Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F / 71°C) and the tops are slightly caramelized.

6. Serve

• Let them rest for a few minutes.

• Serve warm with extra ketchup, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing for dipping.

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Tips & Variations

• Cheese Choice: Cheddar, mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda all work well.

• Make Ahead: You can prep the meatballs and freeze them before baking; just add a few extra minutes to baking time.

• Crispier Exterior: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end to get a golden crust.

• Add Veggies: Finely grated carrot or zucchini can be mixed into the meat for extra moisture.