Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites

Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are a fun and tasty twist on the classic meatloaf. These little bites pack a punch of flavor with melty cheese inside and are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as appetizers, snacks, or a main dish, they are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great because it’s simple and quick to prepare. You only need a few ingredients, and the instructions are easy to follow. Plus, who can resist the combination of juicy ground beef, ooey-gooey cheese, and savory seasonings? These meatloaf bites are also versatile; you can pair them with your favorite dipping sauces.

How to Make Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: BBQ sauce for dipping

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, shredded cheese, chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix until well combined.
4. Form small meatloaf shapes from the mixture and place them on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve warm with BBQ sauce for dipping if desired.

How to Serve Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites

Serve these meatloaf bites warm on a platter. You can provide BBQ sauce for dipping, or even ranch or ketchup for a different flavor. They make excellent appetizers for parties, but are also great as a main dish served with sides like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.

How to Store Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites

If you have any leftovers, let the meatloaf bites cool completely. Then, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Tips to Make Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites

• Make sure not to overmix the meat mixture to keep the bites tender.
• Feel free to experiment with different kinds of cheese, like mozzarella, cheddar, or pepper jack for added flavor.
• For a spicier kick, add some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of hot sauce to the mixture.

Variation

You can customize these bites by adding different fillings. Consider adding vegetables like diced bell peppers or mushrooms for some extra nutrition and crunch. You could even use turkey or chicken in place of ground beef for a lighter version.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze these meatloaf bites?
Yes! You can freeze them before or after cooking. If freezing uncooked, form the bites and place them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. For cooked bites, let them cool and then store them in an airtight container.

2. How do I know when the meatloaf bites are done?
They should be nicely browned on the outside and the internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.

3. Can I make these bites ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day ahead, form the bites, and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake them. This makes it convenient for parties or busy weeknights.