These Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are a delicious twist on a classic comfort food. Perfect for a family dinner, party appetizer, or a fun weeknight meal, these bite-sized meatloafs are packed with flavor and gooey cheese. With the savory combination of ground beef, cheddar cheese, and vegetables, these meatloaf bites are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup ketchup
1/4 cup diced onion
1/4 cup diced bell pepper
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, shredded cheddar cheese, ketchup, diced onion, diced bell pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
Shape the mixture into small, round meatloaf bites and arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatloaf bites are fully cooked and have an internal temperature of 160°F.
Remove from the oven, allow to cool slightly, and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Variations

Cheese options: While cheddar cheese works great, you can experiment with other cheeses such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for an extra spicy flavor.
Vegetable Add-ins: Include finely chopped mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a boost of vegetables in your meatloaf bites.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute with almond flour or oats for a gluten-free version of this recipe.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover meatloaf bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 30-45 seconds, or in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through.

10 FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture, shape the bites, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze the meatloaf bites?
Absolutely. Freeze the uncooked meatloaf bites on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. Bake them from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef, but be mindful that these lean meats may need a bit more seasoning for flavor.
How do I know when the meatloaf bites are done?
You can use a meat thermometer to ensure they have reached an internal temperature of 160°F.
Can I use store-bought breadcrumbs?
Yes, store-bought breadcrumbs work well. You can also use panko for a crunchier texture.
Can I make these without cheese?
Yes, for a dairy-free version, simply omit the cheese. The recipe will still taste delicious, though it will lack the gooey cheese center.
How can I make these spicier?
Add chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
Can I serve these with dipping sauces?
Yes, these meatloaf bites pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like ketchup, BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha mayo.
Can I make this recipe without eggs?
Yes, you can use an egg substitute like a flax egg or a bit of mashed avocado to help bind the ingredients together.
What sides pair well with these meatloaf bites?
These meatloaf bites go well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a side salad, or a simple coleslaw.

Conclusion

Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are a versatile, fun, and flavorful meal option that everyone in the family will love. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, a quick dinner, or as part of a larger meal, they’re sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. With the flexibility to customize the flavors and ingredients, this recipe offers endless possibilities to suit your taste. Enjoy these tasty bites fresh out of the oven or as leftovers, and savor the cheesy goodness in every bite!