Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites featuring juicy ground beef filled with melted mozzarella cheese, seasoned with garlic and onion powder, baked to perfection, and garnished with fresh parsley. Perfect as a savory appetizer or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Bites
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the meatloaf bites.
- Mix ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is uniform.
- Shape meatloaf bites: Take a golf ball-sized amount of the meat mixture, flatten it in your hand, place about one tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center, then fold the meat around the cheese to completely encase it. Shape it into a round ball ensuring the cheese is sealed inside.
- Prepare baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and arrange the meatloaf bites evenly spaced on the sheet.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). The cheese inside should be melted.
- Cool and garnish: Remove the meatloaf bites from the oven, let them cool slightly for easier handling, then garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the meat is cooked through by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier cheese inside the bites if preferred.
- Breadcrumbs can be substituted with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten free.
- Serve with dipping sauces such as marinara, ranch, or barbecue for added flavor.
- These bites can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen before baking for convenience.
