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Cheese Filled Meatloaf Bites

These Cheese Filled Meatloaf Bites are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for any gathering or as a simple weeknight dinner with a gooey cheese center.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Cheese Bites, comfort food, Easy Dinner, meatloaf, Party Food
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 250kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean to fat ratio) Can also use a different meat like ground turkey.
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs Use plain or Italian breadcrumbs.
  • ¼ cup milk Any type of milk is suitable.
  • 1 large egg Acts as a binder for the ingredients.
  • 1 medium onion, chopped For flavor; can substitute with shallots.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced More can be added for a stronger garlic flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Add more for additional flavor.
  • ¼ cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon mustard Can use Dijon or yellow mustard.
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated Can substitute with mozzarella or pepper jack.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce until just combined.
  • Take about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture, flatten it slightly in your palm, and place a small pinch of grated cheddar cheese in the center.
  • Fold the meat around the cheese, sealing it inside and roll it into a ball about 1.5 inches (4 cm) in diameter.
  • Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch between each.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup and mustard, and brush the mixture on top of each meatloaf bite.

Cooking

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the tops are caramelized.
  • Once done, garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

For a fun twist, place them in slider buns and add toppings. These bites can be made ahead of time or frozen unbaked and baked from frozen.