Description
Transform classic meatloaf into bite-sized portions with gooey cheese centers. These individual servings are perfect for parties, meal prep, and family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend works best)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
- 1/4 cup milk (whole milk preferred)
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (plus extra if desired)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently until just combined – overmixing makes tough meatloaf.
- Take a portion of meat mixture (about 1/4 cup) and flatten it in your palm. Place a small amount of cheddar cheese in the center, then carefully wrap the meat around it, forming a ball. Seal all edges completely.
- Repeat the process with remaining meat mixture, making 8-10 meatloaf bites. Place them on the prepared baking sheet with space between each one.
- Mix ketchup and mustard in a small bowl. Brush this glaze generously over each meatloaf bite, covering all exposed surfaces.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F and tops are beautifully caramelized. Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Use cold cheese cubes instead of shredded for easier stuffing and better cheese pockets
- Wet your hands with water when forming the bites to prevent sticking
- Make a test bite first to check seasoning levels before forming all the bites
- Double the glaze recipe if you like extra sauce for serving on the side
- Try different cheese varieties like mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss for unique flavors
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 185
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: mini meatloaf appetizers, cheese stuffed meatballs, individual meatloaves, party meatloaf bites, meatloaf cupcakes