There’s something magical about the smell of sizzling beef, onions, and melting cheese filling the kitchen. I grew up watching my Nonna shape loaves of meat by hand; her secret ingredient was always a pinch of patience. Today, I’ve reimagined her tradition into Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf Morsels; mini bites packed with warmth, flavor, and nostalgia. These bite-sized treasures offer the comfort of meatloaf in a more playful form, perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
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Why You’ll Love This Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf Morsels Recipe
Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf Morsels are proof that small things pack big flavor. Unlike a traditional loaf that takes forever to bake, these cook quickly, keeping the inside juicy and the outside slightly crisp. Every bite hides a gooey pocket of melted cheddar, comfort in its purest form. They’re perfect for weeknight dinners, lunchboxes, or appetizers during a cozy movie night. Plus, they freeze beautifully for meal prep.
If you enjoy hearty classics like my Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, you’ll love how these little morsels balance comfort with cheesy indulgence.
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Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf Morsels
Juicy, cheesy, and bite-sized, these Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf Morsels are a fun twist on a family classic. Each mini loaf hides a molten cheddar center for the ultimate comfort meal.
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 12 meatloaf morsels 1x
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
1 cup breadcrumbs
½ cup milk
1 large egg
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tbsp ketchup (plus more for glaze)
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a muffin tin.
2. In a large bowl, combine beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Mix until just combined.
3. Divide into 12 equal portions. Flatten each slightly, add a cube of cheddar, and fold the meat around to seal.
4. Place the morsels on the baking sheet, brush lightly with ketchup, and bake for 18–22 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley and enjoy!
Notes
Avoid overmixing the meat to keep it tender.
Cheddar can be swapped for mozzarella or pepper jack.
These freeze beautifully — just reheat in the oven or air fryer!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 morsels
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make about a dozen cheesy meatloaf morsels:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for best juiciness)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp ketchup (plus more for glaze)
- 1 cup cubed sharp cheddar cheese
Optional garnish: fresh parsley or extra cheese shreds on top
If you love gooey centers, the cheddar cubes are non-negotiable. For a fun twist, swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack. For a cozy side, try pairing them with Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes for a complete comfort meal.
How to Make It
- Step 1: Prep the base
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin or line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Mix just until combined, don’t overmix or the meat will become dense. - Step 2: Shape and stuff
Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions. Flatten each one slightly, add a cheddar cube in the center, and wrap the meat around it to seal. - Step 3: Bake to perfection
Place on the tray, brush lightly with ketchup, and bake for 18–22 minutes or until cooked through and golden. Rest them for 5 minutes before serving to let the cheese settle.
These are especially great served with tangy sauces or next to dishes like Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs for a game-day platter.
Tips and Variations
- Flavor Boost: Add a dash of Dijon mustard or barbecue sauce for smoky sweetness.
- Spice Lovers: Mix in minced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Make Ahead: Shape and refrigerate the morsels up to a day in advance. Bake right before serving.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with Monterey Jack, Swiss, or even a blend for different textures.
Want something that stretches beyond beef? Try my Honey Garlic Ground Turkey Recipe, a lighter yet flavorful alternative that shares the same savory charm.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these meatloaf morsels ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance or freeze them for up to 3 months.
2. Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead?
Absolutely. Just add a bit more moisture (like an extra tablespoon of milk or oil).
3. What can I serve them with?
They’re great with sides like glazed carrots or fresh green beans.
Final Bite
Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf Morsels are the definition of bite-sized bliss, tender, juicy, and oozing with cheesy goodness. They turn an old-fashioned classic into something fresh and fun without losing its soul. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering, these morsels are sure to please.
Loved this recipe? Follow me on Pinterest for more comforting dishes and easy weeknight favorites you’ll want to save.
