Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites Recipe
Ingredients:
- For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 large egg
- For the Stuffing:
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes (about 1/2 inch)
- For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a mini muffin tin if using.
- Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. Add the breadcrumbs, chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, minced garlic, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, dried oregano, paprika, and the egg. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Form the Meatloaf Bites:
- Take a small amount of the meatloaf mixture (about 2 tablespoons) and flatten it in your hand. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center and fold the meat mixture around it, rolling it into a ball. Ensure the cheese is completely covered. Repeat this process until all the meat mixture is used up.
- Arrange and Bake:
- Place the meatloaf bites on the prepared baking sheet or in the mini muffin tin. If using a baking sheet, make sure the bites are spaced evenly apart.
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
- Apply the Glaze:
- Using a brush or a spoon, apply the glaze generously over the top of each meatloaf bite.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatloaf bites are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm and enjoy your cheesy stuffed meatloaf bites!
Tips:
- You can substitute the mozzarella cheese with cheddar or any other cheese that melts well.
- For added flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of BBQ sauce to the meat mixture.
- Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a complete meal.