Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are savory, juicy mini meatloaves baked in a muffin tin and filled with a surprise center of melty cheese. Each bite is seasoned to perfection, topped with a tangy glaze, and cooked until golden brown. I love how simple they are to make with pantry staples, yet they taste like a comforting treat. Whether I serve them as an appetizer, a family dinner, or freeze them for later, they always satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings together the hearty flavor of meatloaf with the fun of finger food. The cheesy center adds a delightful surprise in every bite, and baking them in a muffin tin makes cleanup a breeze. I also appreciate how versatile this recipe is — I can change the cheese, glaze, or even the meat to suit my preferences or what I have on hand. Plus, they’re great for meal prepping or entertaining.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound ground beef (80% lean for the best balance of flavor and moisture)

• ½ cup plain breadcrumbs

• ¼ cup milk

• 1 large egg

• ½ small onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• ½ cup ketchup, divided

• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard (plus extra for glaze if desired)

• 12 cubes cheddar or mozzarella cheese (about ½-inch each)

• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

• Nonstick spray or a little oil for greasing the muffin tin

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup mini muffin tin with nonstick spray or a bit of oil.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, garlic, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, ¼ cup of the ketchup, and mustard. Mix gently using your hands or a fork just until everything is combined — I avoid overmixing so the meat stays tender.

3. Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture, flatten it slightly in your palm, and place a cube of cheese in the center. Wrap the meat around the cheese to seal it in and shape into a ball.

4. Place each meatball into a compartment of the muffin tin.

5. In a small bowl, mix the remaining ¼ cup of ketchup with a teaspoon of mustard (optional) to make a simple glaze. Spoon a bit of this glaze on top of each meatloaf bite and spread it gently.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the tops are browned and an internal thermometer reads 160°F (71°C).

7. Let the bites cool in the muffin tin for 5 minutes before removing. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.

Servings And Timing

• Servings: 12 bites (about 4 servings)

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option.

• Swap cheddar for pepper jack, provolone, gouda, or Swiss to add different flavor profiles.

• Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper to the meat mixture if I want a bit of heat.

• Replace the ketchup glaze with barbecue sauce or chili sauce for a smoky or spicy twist.

• Stir in finely chopped spinach or bell peppers to sneak in extra veggies.

Storage/Reheating

After cooling, I store leftover meatloaf bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, I freeze them in a single layer on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, I use the microwave in 30-second intervals or warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes. This keeps the texture nice and the cheese melty.

FAQs

Can I Make These Ahead Of Time?

Yes, I can fully prepare and shape the meatloaf bites, then store them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

What’s The Best Cheese To Use Inside?

Cheddar gives a sharp, flavorful melt, while mozzarella offers a stretchier, mild center. I choose based on the flavor I want.

How Do I Keep The Cheese From Leaking Out?

I make sure the meat completely seals the cheese in before placing it in the muffin tin. Chilling the cheese cubes briefly also helps.

Can I Bake These Without A Muffin Tin?

Yes, I can shape them into small balls and bake them on a lined baking sheet. The muffin tin helps them hold their shape and keeps the glaze contained, but it’s not essential.

Are These Good For Kids?

Absolutely. The size, soft texture, and cheesy center make them a hit with kids. I often serve them with mashed potatoes or veggies for a full meal.

Conclusion

Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are one of my go-to recipes when I want something cozy, flavorful, and easy to share. The cheesy surprise inside each bite brings comfort food to a new level, and the simplicity of the recipe makes it one I return to again and again. Whether I serve them fresh from the oven or reheat leftovers, they always come out delicious.