Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 (Makes about 18 bites)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Calories per Serving: ~280 kcal

Description

These Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are the perfect bite-sized comfort food! Juicy ground beef and pork are mixed with savory seasonings, stuffed with gooey melted cheese, and baked to perfection. They’re great as an appetizer, party snack, or a fun twist on classic meatloaf. Serve them with a side of marinara or ketchup for dipping!

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf Mixture:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80% lean)

• ½ lb (225g) ground pork

• 1 large egg

• ½ cup breadcrumbs

• ¼ cup milk

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried parsley

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Cheese Filling:

• 6 oz (170g) mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

For the Glaze (Optional):

• ¼ cup ketchup

• 1 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

2. Mix well using your hands or a spoon until fully combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meat tender.

Step 3: Shape & Stuff the Meatloaf Bites

1. Take about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm.

2. Place 1 cube of mozzarella and a pinch of shredded cheddar in the center.

3. Fold the meat around the cheese, sealing it completely to prevent leaks.

4. Roll into a ball and place on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat until all meat is used.

Step 4: Make the Glaze (Optional)

• In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.

• Brush lightly over the top of each meatloaf bite.

Step 5: Bake

• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

• Let rest for 5 minutes before serving (the cheese will be very hot!).

Step 6: Serve

• Enjoy warm with marinara sauce, ketchup, or a creamy dipping sauce!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 3 Bites)

Tips & Variations

• Cheese Options: Try pepper jack, gouda, or blue cheese for different flavors.

• Make Ahead: Assemble the bites and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

• Freezing: Freeze unbaked bites on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5-10 extra minutes.

• Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp chili flakes to the meat mixture.

Final Thoughts

These Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are a crowd-pleaser—crispy on the outside, juicy inside, with a molten cheese center! Perfect for game day, family dinners, or meal prep.