Looking for a fun twist on classic comfort food? Cheeseburger Meatloaf Bites combine the savory flavors of a cheeseburger with the homestyle warmth of meatloaf, all packed into a convenient bite-sized form. These juicy, cheesy bites are perfect for weeknight dinners, game day snacks, or even as a fun party appetizer. Each bite is stuffed with gooey cheddar cheese and finished with a touch of ketchup for that iconic cheeseburger taste. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this flavorful dish in no time.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need 1 pound of ground beef, ½ cup of breadcrumbs, ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese, ¼ cup of diced onion, 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of mustard, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. You’ll also need 12 small cheddar cheese cubes for stuffing, plus optional additional ketchup for topping.
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin tin or line it with baking cups. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onion, egg, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. Take a small portion of the meatloaf mixture, roll it into a ball, and flatten it slightly. Place a cube of cheddar cheese in the center and wrap the meat around it, ensuring the cheese is fully enclosed. Shape it back into a ball and place it in the prepared muffin tin. Repeat this process until all the meatloaf bites are ready.
Once the bites are shaped, bake them in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). For an extra burst of flavor, brush each meatloaf bite with a little ketchup during the last 5 minutes of baking. When done, let the bites cool slightly before serving. These little gems are sure to be a hit at any table!
Tips
For the juiciest bites, avoid overmixing the meatloaf mixture, as this can make the texture dense. You can also swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a bit of spice, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture. For even more cheeseburger authenticity, serve these bites with a side of pickles or a drizzle of burger sauce.
Serving Suggestions
These Cheeseburger Meatloaf Bites pair wonderfully with classic sides like fries, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables. They also make an excellent addition to a party platter, served alongside sliders, wings, and veggie sticks. For a more indulgent meal, try serving them on mini rolls for a meatloaf slider experience.
Storage
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or microwave them for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. These bites can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Simply let them cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe container. Reheat from frozen in the oven for about 20 minutes.
FAQ
Can I make these bites ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape the bites a day ahead. Keep them covered in the fridge and bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
What type of cheese works best for stuffing?
Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as needed.
Conclusion
Cheeseburger Meatloaf Bites are a delightful mash-up of two beloved comfort foods. With their rich, cheesy centers and juicy, flavorful exterior, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making them for a cozy dinner at home or as a party snack, these bites offer big flavor in a small package. Give them a try, and watch them disappear in no time
Cheeseburger Meatloaf Bites
Description
Cheeseburger Meatloaf Bites combine the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the comforting texture of meatloaf, all in a convenient bite-sized form. Perfect for weeknight dinners or party snacks, these cheesy, savory bites are sure to impress!
Ingredients
• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup diced onion
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 small cheddar cheese cubes (for stuffing)
• Optional: Additional ketchup for topping
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin tin.
2️⃣ Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar, onion, egg, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3️⃣ Shape meatloaf mixture into balls, stuffing each with a cube of cheddar cheese.
4️⃣ Place bites in the muffin tin and bake for 15–20 minutes until cooked through.
5️⃣ Optionally, brush ketchup on top during the last 5 minutes of baking. Serve and enjoy!