Here’s a slightly upgraded, extra-juicy version of Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites — perfectly portioned, melty in the center, and great for dinner or appetizers.
Ingredients (Makes 12–14 bites)
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/3 cup onion, very finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
- 4–5 oz cheddar, mozzarella, or Colby Jack, cut into small cubes
Optional Sweet & Tangy Glaze
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp yellow mustard
Instructions
1. Preheat
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin (this helps them hold shape and stay juicy).
2. Mix the meat
In a large bowl, combine:
ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and seasoning.
Mix gently just until combined — overmixing makes them dense.
3. Stuff the bites
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of meat mixture.
- Flatten slightly in your palm.
- Place a cheese cube in the center.
- Wrap meat around the cheese and seal completely.
- Place into muffin tin. Repeat.
4. Add glaze
Mix glaze ingredients and spoon or brush a little on top of each bite.
5. Bake
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Optional: Broil 1–2 minutes at the end for a caramelized top.
6. Rest
Let rest 5 minutes before removing so the cheese stays inside when cut.
Make Them Even Better
- Add 2 tbsp grated parmesan to the meat mix for deeper flavor
- Swap half the beef for ground pork for extra tenderness
- Use pepper jack for a spicy center
- Wrap each bite with half a slice of bacon before baking for a crispy version
If you’d like, I can also give a low-carb / keto version with no breadcrumbs that stays just as juicy.
