Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Bites (Print version)

Juicy mini meatloaf bites stuffed with cheddar, brushed with tangy glaze, and baked until caramelized.

# Ingredients:

For the meatloaf bites

01 - 1 lb (450 g) ground beef, 85 to 90 percent lean
02 - 1/2 cup (55 g) plain breadcrumbs
03 - 1/4 cup (60 ml) whole milk
04 - 1 large egg
05 - 1 small yellow onion, very finely chopped
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
08 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
09 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
10 - 1/2 cup (60 g) sharp cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes or freshly grated
11 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, plus more for serving

For the glaze

12 - 1/2 cup (120 g) ketchup
13 - 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
14 - 1 teaspoon brown sugar, optional

# Instructions:

01 - Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, stir the breadcrumbs and milk together. Let them sit for 2 minutes so the crumbs hydrate.
03 - Add the ground beef, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix gently with your hands just until combined.
04 - Flatten a golf-ball sized portion of meat in your palm. Place about 1 teaspoon cheddar in the center, then wrap the meat around it and pinch closed. Repeat to make about 16 bites.
05 - Stir ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar if using. Brush a thin layer over each meatloaf bite.
06 - Bake for 22-25 minutes, until the bites are browned and the center of the largest one reaches 160°F. Rest for 5 minutes, then sprinkle with parsley and serve warm.

# Good to know:

01 - Makes about 16 meatloaf bites.
02 - Best served warm while the cheddar center is soft.
03 - Use an instant-read thermometer for the most reliable doneness check.