Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes! You can easily swap ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Both options work wonderfully in this recipe.

What kind of cheese can I use?

While cheddar cheese is a great choice, you can experiment with mozzarella, Gouda, or Swiss cheese depending on your preference.

Can I prep these bites in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare them up to 2 days in advance and store them in the fridge. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

Are these gluten-free?

Yes, you can make them gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensuring that your Worcestershire sauce is also gluten-free.

How do I know when they’re done?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for beef or 165°F (74°C) for turkey or chicken.

The Best Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites Recipe for the Whole Family Tastyflora

Description

Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are a delicious, bite-sized twist on the classic meatloaf, filled with gooey cheese in every bite. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or appetizers, these flavorful morsels offer a comforting, cheesy surprise that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk
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 (or your favorite cheese)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and mustard. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Form the Bites: Take a small portion of the meat mixture (about 1-2 tablespoons) and flatten it into a small patty in the palm of your hand. Place about a teaspoon of grated cheese in the center of the patty, then fold the edges around the cheese to create a ball shape. Roll it into a neat ball and set aside.
Place on Baking Sheet: Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are fully cooked and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Cheese Variations: Feel free to use any type of cheese that melts well. Mozzarella, Gouda, or Swiss cheese also work wonderfully in this recipe.
Meat Substitutes: If you’d like a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. The texture will be slightly different, but the flavors will still be delicious.
Freezing Tip: These meatloaf bites freeze well. Prepare them and freeze uncooked on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, cook them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you’re following a gluten-free diet.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Category: Appetizer, Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American