Bite-sized and bursting with ooey-gooey cheese, these Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are the ultimate comfort food meets party appetizer. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a weeknight dinner with bold, savory flavor, these mini meatloaves are guaranteed to impress.


Each tender meatball is packed with perfectly seasoned ground beef and a generous cheddar cheese center that melts into a delicious surprise in every bite. Topped with a sticky-sweet glaze and fresh chives, this dish brings all the nostalgia of a classic meatloaf but with an irresistible cheesy twist.
What Kind of Cheese Should I Use Inside?
Cheddar is the star here—its sharpness and melting quality make it ideal for a gooey center. But don’t hesitate to experiment with other melty cheeses like mozzarella for a milder pull or pepper jack if you want a kick.
Ingredients for the Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites
- Ground Beef: The foundation of the bites. Choose 80/20 for flavor and moisture.
- Cheddar Cheese Cubes: Stuffed in the center for melty, savory goodness.
- Breadcrumbs: Helps bind everything together while adding texture.
- Milk: Moistens the breadcrumbs so the meat stays tender.
- Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the meat mixture together.
- Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Bring in classic meatloaf flavor.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning.
- Ketchup & Brown Sugar: Mixed together for a glossy, sweet glaze.
- Fresh Parsley or Chives: Adds a pop of freshness and color.
How To Make the Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites
Step 1: Prep the Filling
Cut cheddar cheese into small 1-inch cubes. Set them aside for stuffing.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Base
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to avoid overworking the meat.
Step 3: Form and Stuff the Bites
Take a heaping tablespoon of the meat mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of cheese in the center and form the meat around it into a ball, sealing well.
Step 4: Glaze and Bake
Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Mix ketchup and brown sugar to create your glaze, then spoon it over each meatloaf bite. Bake at 375°F for 18-22 minutes until cooked through and bubbling.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle with chopped parsley or chives. Serve warm and watch the cheese flow!

Serving and Storing These Bites
These bites are best served fresh from the oven when the cheese is perfectly molten. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F to maintain their crispy edges and melty center. You can also freeze them (uncooked or cooked) for up to 2 months.
What to Serve With Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites?
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
A classic pairing that completes this comfort-food feast.
Roasted Parmesan Green Beans
Crispy, cheesy greens that contrast beautifully with the rich meat.
Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Soft, buttery, and perfect for scooping up extra glaze.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Serve alongside for a cheesy, protein-packed dinner spread. Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
For a cozy, creamy side that complements the cheesy bites. Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
An indulgent, family-style side dish to share. Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
For a protein-packed plate with citrusy zing. Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Want More Ground Beef Ideas?
If you love these cheesy meatloaf bites, you’re going to love diving into these flavorful recipes:
- Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe is perfect for when you want comfort in a bowl.
- Cheesy Hamburger Casserole delivers all the classic burger flavors in baked form.
- French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole brings deep, savory notes and cheesy rice.
- Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is a one-pot wonder for busy nights.
- Beef Bowtie Pasta packs a punch with rich, hearty flavor.
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Let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go classic with cheddar or did you stuff it with mozzarella or even blue cheese? Did your kids inhale these like mine did?
Explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals and indulgent treats on ChefAlchemy Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next go-to dinner idea!
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Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 bites
Description
Craving comfort food that delivers cheesy satisfaction in every bite? These Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites are the perfect mashup of meatloaf, melty cheddar, and finger-food convenience. Juicy on the inside and topped with a sweet glaze, they’re ideal for quick dinners, game nights, or entertaining guests. This easy recipe is a go-to for weeknight dinner ideas, quick appetizers, or kid-friendly food ideas. Loaded with flavor and fun to eat, this one’s a must-try for any comfort-food lover.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 cup cheddar cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/3 cup ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cut cheddar cheese into small 1-inch cubes and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Take a heaping tablespoon of the mixture, flatten it, and place a cheese cube in the center. Form into a ball, sealing the cheese inside.
4. Place meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Mix ketchup and brown sugar in a small bowl. Spoon the glaze over each meatball.
6. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18–22 minutes, until fully cooked and bubbling.
7. Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley or chives, and serve warm.
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese and cube it yourself for the best melt and flavor.
Avoid overmixing the beef mixture to keep the bites tender.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 35mg