Description
Savory Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites combine ground beef, cheese, and herbs in perfect miniature portions. Guests will love these compact, flavorful morsels that deliver rich comfort with each delectable bite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 4 oz (113g) cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat the oven to 375F (190C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or a light olive oil coating to prevent sticking.
- Meat Mixture Fusion: In a large mixing bowl, vigorously combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Adjust the mixture’s moisture with additional milk if needed to achieve optimal consistency.
- Cheese-Filled Transformation: Gently flatten small meat portions into thin patties. Place a concentrated cluster of mozzarella cheese in the center, then meticulously fold and seal the edges to completely encapsulate the cheese. Mold each bite into a compact spherical or oval shape, positioning them methodically on the prepared baking sheet.
- Culinary Alchemy: Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven, allowing the meatloaf bites to undergo a 20-25 minute metamorphosis. Verify a golden-brown exterior and complete internal cooking temperature, ensuring the embedded cheese melts into a tantalizing molten core.
- Serving Finale: Extract from the oven and permit a brief resting period for temperature equilibration. Present the meatloaf bites independently or accompany with a vibrant tomato sauce. Elevate the dish with a crisp salad or roasted vegetable ensemble for a comprehensive gastronomic experience.
Notes
Optimize Meat Moisture: Mix ground beef gently to prevent overworking, which can create dense, tough meatloaf bites. Keep meat mixture light and tender by using a soft touch during blending.
Control Cheese Leakage: Seal meatloaf bites completely by pinching edges firmly, ensuring mozzarella remains enclosed during baking. Refrigerate shaped bites for 15 minutes before cooking to help maintain structural integrity.
Temperature Precision: Use a meat thermometer to verify internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption. Avoid overcooking by checking doneness early to maintain juicy, tender texture.
Dietary Adaptation: Substitute ground beef with lean turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for lighter versions. Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free options like almond meal for celiac-friendly preparation.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg