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Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites

These comforting, cheesy meatloaf bites are a quick and satisfying option for busy weeknights, perfect for families and gatherings.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
Servings: 24 pieces
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Meat Mixture
  • 1.5 lb ground beef (80/20) Works great for flavor.
  • 0.5 lb ground pork (optional) Adds moisture.
  • 1 cup bread crumbs Plain or Italian.
  • 0.5 cup milk To soak the breadcrumbs.
  • 1 large egg
  • 0.25 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional) Adds delightful flavor.
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Coating and Stuffing
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack For coating.
  • 18-24 small mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or 1 cup mozzarella cubes For stuffing.
Glaze
  • 0.5 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar For glaze.
Garnish
  • Fresh parsley Optional for garnish.

Method
 

Preheat and Prep
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease a muffin tin.
Soak the Breadcrumbs
  1. In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 5 minutes until the crumbs are moistened.
Mix the Meat
  1. In a large bowl, add ground beef and pork, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Parmesan, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix until just combined.
Form the Bites
  1. Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of the meat mixture, flatten it in your palm, place a mozzarella ball or cube in the center, wrap the meat around it, and roll gently into a ball.
Coat with Shredded Cheese
  1. Roll each meatball in the shredded cheese until coated.
Arrange and Glaze
  1. Place the coated bites on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each with the ketchup and brown sugar glaze.
Bake
  1. Bake for 18–22 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Broil for 1–2 minutes for deeper caramelization.
Rest and Serve
  1. Let the bites rest for 5 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve with extra glaze or dipping sauces.

Notes

Keep cheese centered to prevent leakage. Don't overmix the meat to avoid density. Assemble and freeze unbaked bites for make-ahead convenience. Use various cheeses for unique flavor.