Are you craving a dinner that’s packed with flavor, fun to make, and even more fun to eat? Say hello to Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites! These little bites of heaven feature tender ground beef, perfectly seasoned with savory spices, and stuffed with gooey mozzarella cheese in every bite. They’re quick, and easy, and will make your family and guests ask for seconds!
Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or need something hearty for a busy weeknight, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. The best part? It’s super customizable! Let’s dive into the details of this recipe and learn how to create these irresistible cheesy meatloaf bites.
Ingredients for Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites
To create these cheesy, savory meatloaf bites, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef – Choose lean ground beef to keep the meatloaf bites juicy without excess fat.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs – Adds texture and helps bind the mixture together.
- 1/4 cup milk – Moisture for the meatloaf mixture.
- 1 large egg – This acts as a binder to keep the meatloaf bites together.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – For a savory, aromatic base.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Adds a mild, sweet flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning – Brings a herby, Italian flair to the meatloaf.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Season well for the perfect balance of flavors.
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes – The star of the show, giving that oozy, gooey center.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing) – Helps prevent the meatloaf bites from sticking to the baking sheet.
Step-by-Step Directions for Making Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites
Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the optimal temperature for baking these meatloaf bites, ensuring that they cook through while achieving a perfectly browned exterior. Once the oven is heated, lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil, or use parchment paper for an even easier cleanup.
Make the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 lb ground beef, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup milk, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Using your hands or a spoon, mix everything together until all ingredients are fully incorporated. The milk and breadcrumbs will provide moisture, ensuring your meatloaf bites are tender. The garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning give the meat a rich, flavorful base.
Form the Meatloaf Bites
Now, it’s time to form the meatloaf bites. Take about 1-2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it into a small patty in the palm of your hand. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center of the patty. Carefully fold the meat around the cheese, creating a ball shape. This will ensure that the cheese is completely encased in the meat, so it stays gooey when baked.
Repeat this process until you’ve used up all the meat mixture. You should end up with about 12-16 meatloaf bites, depending on how big you make them.
Bake the Meatloaf Bites
Place the stuffed meatloaf bites onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure they’re spaced evenly apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and the cheese inside is melted and bubbling. To check if the meatloaf bites are cooked, you can use a meat thermometer — the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
If you prefer a crispier outer texture, feel free to broil the meatloaf bites for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time. This will give them a golden brown, slightly crispy crust.
Serve and Enjoy!
Once the meatloaf bites are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures that the cheesy filling doesn’t ooze out all over the place when you bite into them.
Serve these cheesy stuffed meatloaf bites hot. The melted mozzarella cheese on the inside and the savory beef on the outside will make every bite absolutely irresistible. You can pair them with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Nutritional Information for Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites
These cheesy stuffed meatloaf bites are not only delicious but also balanced. Each serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
They’re an excellent source of protein and healthy fats from the ground beef and mozzarella cheese, and the breadcrumbs provide a good amount of carbohydrates for energy.
Tips for Making the Perfect Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites
Add Flavor Variations
Feel free to get creative with the seasoning. You can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for a deeper, umami flavor. For a touch of sweetness, try adding finely chopped bell peppers or even some diced mushrooms.
Make Them Healthier
For a healthier version of this recipe, you can substitute the ground beef with lean ground turkey or chicken. You can also use whole wheat breadcrumbs for a higher fiber content and low-fat cheese for a lighter alternative.
Make Ahead and Freeze
If you’re preparing for a busy week, you can make these cheesy stuffed meatloaf bites in advance. Once formed, place the meatloaf bites on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or container for storage. When you’re ready to cook, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.
Gluten-Free Option
If you’re following a gluten-free diet, you can easily make these meatloaf bites gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour as a substitute. Just ensure that your mozzarella cheese and other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites
Can I use a different cheese for the stuffing?
Absolutely! While mozzarella cheese is the traditional choice for its melty goodness, you can also experiment with other types of cheese such as cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack for a spicier version.
How do I know when the meatloaf bites are done?
The best way to check if your meatloaf bites are cooked through is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can also cut one open to check that the meat is no longer pink and the cheese is melted.
Can I make these meatloaf bites in an air fryer?
Yes, you can! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the meatloaf bites in batches for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. This will give them a delicious crispy exterior.
Can I serve these as appetizers?
Yes, these cheesy stuffed meatloaf bites make excellent appetizers. You can serve them with dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or even a spicy barbecue sauce for extra flavor.
Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites
There’s no denying that these Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are a game-changer. Not only are they easy to make, but they also offer a delicious combination of cheesy, savory, and meaty flavors in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a party, or looking for a fun meal to try, these little bites are sure to become a household favorite.
Pairing Suggestions for Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites
These cheesy meatloaf bites are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with a wide range of side dishes. Here are some great options to serve alongside your meatloaf bites:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic complement the savory beef and gooey cheese.
- Roasted Vegetables: A healthy side of roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or zucchini adds color and nutrition to the plate.
- Fresh Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette dressing can balance out the richness of the meatloaf bites.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory meatloaf bites.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Recipe for All Meatloaf Lovers
These Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food with a twist. With the melty cheese inside and the savory beef outside, every bite is a delightful explosion of flavor. Whether you make them for a busy weeknight dinner or as a fun appetizer for a party, these cheesy meatloaf bites are guaranteed to be a hit.
If you’re looking for more comforting and creative recipes, check out these delicious ideas:
- Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food
- BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf: A Comfort Food Favorite
- Cheddar Stuffed BBQ Bacon Bombs: A Game-Changing Recipe
So, why wait? Get in the kitchen, make these cheesy stuffed meatloaf bites, and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!
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Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites: A Delicious Recipe You Must Try
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are the perfect balance of savory beef and gooey mozzarella. Each bite is packed with flavor, making it an ideal dinner option that’s quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser. These little bites are crispy on the outside and oozy on the inside, and they can be served on their own or with your favorite side dishes. Try them tonight, and watch them disappear!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Make the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Form the Meatloaf Bites: Take a small portion of the meat mixture (about 1-2 tablespoons) and flatten it into a patty. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center and carefully fold the meat around it, forming a ball. Repeat until all meat mixture is used.
- Bake the Meatloaf Bites: Arrange the stuffed meatloaf bites on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and the cheese inside is melted. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites hot. Enjoy the gooey cheese inside and the savory beef on the outside!
Notes
- You can freeze these meatloaf bites for later use. After baking, let them cool, then store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when you’re ready to serve!
- Feel free to swap out the mozzarella with your favorite cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, for a different flavor.
- For extra flavor, you can add finely chopped vegetables, such as onions or bell peppers, into the meat mixture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 meatloaf bite (of 4 servings)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites, Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf, Easy Meatloaf Bites, Savory Meatloaf Balls, Stuffed Meatballs, Meatloaf with Cheese, Quick Meatloaf Recipe