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Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites

These Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites transform traditional meatloaf into portion-controlled bites with gooey cheese centers. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game day snacking, or kid-friendly meals, they cook in half the time of regular meatloaf.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef (450g, 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio works best)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/3 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 small onion finely grated or minced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon halal Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika optional
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or oregano + basil
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Glaze
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon mustard

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl for glaze

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, and egg.
  3. Add the onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika (if using), and dried Italian seasoning. Mix with your hands until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  4. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture, flatten it in your palm, place a small amount of the shredded cheese in the center, and fold the meat around the cheese to seal it inside.
  5. Roll it into a ball and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard to make the glaze.
  7. Spoon a little of the glaze over each meatball.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  9. Optional: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking.
  10. Let rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

These meatloaf bites are extremely versatile. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer, or use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version. The cheese can be customized to your preference - mozzarella gives a classic cheese pull while cheddar offers more flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.