Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites Recipe

Craving a comforting and crowd-pleasing dish? Look no further than these delightful cheesy stuffed meatloaf bites! Imagine juicy bites of meatloaf with a gooey surprise of melted cheddar cheese at the center. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want a cozy weeknight dinner, these morsels are sure to warm both your kitchen and your heart.

The first time I whipped up these cheesy stuffed meatloaf bites was for a potluck, and let me tell you, they were an instant hit! Since then, they’ve become a staple for game days in our house, disappearing faster than I can plate them. The magic lies in tucking a generous cube of sharp cheddar into each bite, creating a burst of cheesy goodness that takes me back to the simple joy of family meals.

For a nostalgic yet modern twist on a classic dish, these meatloaf bites are a must-try. With a blend of savory flavors and that irresistible melted cheese surprise, they’re bound to become a favorite in your household too. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to savor the deliciousness of these cheesy stuffed meatloaf bites!

Quick Benefits

• Moist and Juicy: Mixing in milk and breadcrumbs helps keep the meat mixture moist, creating a tender and succulent bite.
• Gooey Surprise: The cheddar cheese filling adds a delightful burst of juiciness and flavor inside each bite.
• Versatile: Can be made with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, and cheddar can be swapped with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for different gooey centers.
• Make-ahead Option: Can be assembled and refrigerated in advance, then baked just before serving for convenience and freshness.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites Recipe Recipe

• Delicious Twist on Classic Meatloaf: These cheesy stuffed meatloaf bites take everything you love about traditional meatloaf and transform it into bite-sized morsels with a gooey surprise at the center.
• Perfect Party Snack: Ideal for gatherings or weeknight dinners, these cheesy bites are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for more.
• Gooey Cheese Surprise: Tucking a cube of sharp cheddar in the center brings about a satisfying melt and big flavor, reminiscent of grandma’s cooking with extra cheese for that smile-inducing touch.
• Versatile Recipe: Easy to customize by swapping ground beef for turkey or chicken, trying different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack, or using gluten-free breadcrumbs for dietary preferences.
• Make-Ahead Option: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to four days or freeze them for later use, making it a convenient and practical meal prep option.
• Simple Ingredients: With pantry staples like ground beef, breadcrumbs, cheese, and seasonings, these meatloaf bites are quick to put together and require minimal effort.
• Serve in Various Ways: Enjoy them as a party snack with dipping sauces, on a platter with pickles and veggies, or as a formal meal alongside mashed potatoes and peas for a cozy dinner.
• Timeless Comfort Food: Drawing inspiration from classic meatloaf recipes, these bites offer a modern twist on a retro favorite, delivering comfort and flavor in every bite.
• Moist and Juicy: The addition of milk and breadcrumbs in the meat mixture ensures a moist texture, while the gooey cheese filling adds extra juiciness and flavor to each bite.

Ingredients for Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites Recipe

Meatloaf Mixture

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg

Filling and Topping

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, plus extra for garnish
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese

Pro Tips for Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites Recipe

Pro Tip 1: For extra flavorful and moist meatloaf bites, mix the milk and breadcrumbs into the ground beef mixture. This will help keep the meat tender and juicy during baking.

Pro Tip 2: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack if you want a gooey surprise at the center of your meatloaf bites. These alternatives can offer a different flavor profile while still providing that melty goodness.

Pro Tip 3: Ensure the meatloaf bites are fully cooked by checking that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). This will guarantee a safe and tender result for your cheesy stuffed meatloaf bites.

How to Make Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Sheet

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make Meatloaf Mixture

In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.

Step 3: Form and Stuff Meatballs

Take a golf ball-sized portion of the mixture and flatten it in your palm. Add 1 tablespoon of grated cheddar cheese in the center. Shape the meat around the cheese to enclose and form a ball.

Step 4: Arrange and Glaze Meatballs

Arrange stuffed meatloaf balls on baking sheet. Combine ketchup and mustard in a small bowl, then brush over the tops of each meatball.

Step 5: Bake and Garnish

Bake for 20–25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Let it cool, then sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Storage Tips

After making these cheesy stuffed meatloaf bites, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When ready to enjoy again, they can be reheated in the oven or in a skillet over low heat. To freeze, prepare the bites as directed and freeze them raw or baked on a lined tray. Once frozen solid, transfer them to zip-top bags and use within three months for a convenient make-ahead option.

For variations, consider swapping ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or trying different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack if cheddar is not available. To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers as a substitute. These meatloaf bites can be served with extra ketchup or barbecue sauce for dipping, or alongside pickles and crunchy veggies for a fun snack or appetizer option. For a more formal meal, pair them with mashed potatoes and peas for a comforting dinner.

These cheesy meatloaf bites are a modern twist on a classic comfort food, perfect for busy cooks looking to create a simple crowd-pleasing dish. Mixing in milk and breadcrumbs helps maintain moisture in the meat mixture, while the cheddar cheese filling provides a gooey surprise inside each bite. Whether served hot for a melty cheese center or prepared in advance for gatherings, these bites are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter option, consider swapping the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. While the flavor and texture may vary slightly, it can be a healthier alternative.

If you don’t have cheddar cheese on hand, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. These cheeses will still provide a gooey center and add a delicious twist to the meatloaf bites.

To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers instead of regular breadcrumbs. This substitution allows those with dietary restrictions to enjoy these cheesy meatloaf bites without compromising on taste or texture.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and interactive serving suggestion, skewer these cheesy stuffed meatloaf bites with toothpicks and arrange them on a large platter with a side of ketchup or barbecue sauce for dipping. This presentation not only makes them easy to grab and enjoy at parties, but also adds a playful touch to your spread.

To elevate these meatloaf bites for a cozy dinner setting, serve them alongside creamy mashed potatoes and a side of buttery peas. The combination of the cheesy meatloaf bites with the comforting sides creates a homey and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a casual family dinner or a comforting weeknight supper.

FAQs for Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites Recipe

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used, though flavor and juiciness may slightly differ. Adjust seasonings if needed.

What other cheese options can I use for the filling?

Cheddar offers great melt and sharpness, but mozzarella or Monterey Jack are also delicious alternatives for gooey centers.

How do I know when the meatloaf bites are fully cooked?

Bake until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) to ensure a safe and tender result.

Can I prepare the meatloaf bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble and refrigerate the bites in advance, then bake just before serving for best texture and flavor.

Conclusion

These cheesy stuffed meatloaf bites are a true crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a delicious appetizer, or just want a cozy dinner option, these bites are sure to hit the spot. The gooey surprise of melted cheddar cheese in the center takes these bites to a whole new level of comfort and flavor.

So go ahead, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy these cheesy stuffed meatloaf bites. With their savory goodness and easy preparation, they are bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and let the cheesy goodness bring smiles to all who try them. Cheers to enjoying these irresistible cheesy stuffed meatloaf bites at your next gathering or family dinner!

Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites Recipe

“Cheesy stuffed meatloaf bites – classic meatloaf flavors in party-ready morsels with a gooey cheddar surprise, perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners!”

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time20 min

Cook Time25 min

Total Time45 min

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings16 Servings (16 stuffed meatloaf bites)

Ingredients

Meatloaf Mixture

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg

Filling and Topping

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, plus extra for garnish
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Sheet: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Make Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
3. Form and Stuff Meatballs: Take a golf ball-sized portion of the mixture and flatten it in your palm. Add 1 tablespoon of grated cheddar cheese in the center. Shape the meat around the cheese to enclose and form a ball.
4. Arrange and Glaze Meatballs: Arrange stuffed meatloaf balls on baking sheet. Combine ketchup and mustard in a small bowl, then brush over the tops of each meatball.
5. Bake and Garnish: Bake for 20–25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Let it cool, then sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.