Hi, I’m Saly, wife, home cook, and big fan of delicious shortcuts in the kitchen. I still remember the first time I made these cheddar-stuffed meatloaf morsels. It was a rainy weeknight, and I needed something hearty, comforting, and quick. I took my usual meatloaf mix and rolled it into bite-sized portions, but not just any mini meatloaf. I tucked a cube of sharp cheddar inside each one.

The result? Melt-in-the-middle magic. My husband took one bite and just said, “What is this?!” That was the start of a new favorite at our table. These cheesy meatloaf bites are now a go-to, and I’m so excited to share them with you. Whether you’re cooking for kids or just need a comforting classic with a twist, you’ll love this recipe.

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Why You’ll Love This Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf Morsels Recipe

These cheddar-stuffed meatloaf morsels are everything you love about meatloaf but in a fun, mini format; and yes, they’re packed with melted cheese. They’re juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor thanks to a mix of beef, breadcrumbs, seasonings, and that cheddar surprise inside. The crispy edges give every bite a satisfying finish, while the gooey centers make it totally irresistible.

Even better? These are easy to prepare ahead of time and perfect for weeknights, parties, or meal prep. Serve them up with mashed potatoes or green beans for a full dinner, or pop them on toothpicks for game day. If you’re a fan of crowd-pleasing recipes like this, you’ll also love the garlic parmesan cheeseburger bombs that deliver the same cheesy satisfaction in bite-sized form.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make cheddar-stuffed meatloaf morsels:

1 lb ground beef (85/15 or 90/10)
1 egg
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian)
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, cut into ½-inch cubes
Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing

Optional topping:

2 tbsp ketchup mixed with 1 tsp brown sugar (for that glazed finish)

Looking for more comforting dinner ideas? Try the creamy crack chicken gnocchi, another weeknight winner!

How to Make these Stuffed Meatloaf Morsels

These stuffed meatloaf bites come together quickly, and the method is simple:

1. Preheat and prep.
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a mini muffin tin.
2. Mix the meat.
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, onion, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined but don’t overmix.
3. Shape and stuff.
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and flatten slightly in your hand. Place a cube of cheddar in the center, then shape the meat around the cheese to form a ball. Repeat with remaining meat.
4. Bake.
Place the stuffed meatballs on your prepared pan or in muffin cups. Optional: top each with a bit of the ketchup glaze. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until the meat is cooked through and the cheese is bubbling inside.

For a classic side, serve these with rosemary garlic mashed potatoes, the flavors are a perfect match.

Tips and Variations

Switch up the cheese.
Sharp cheddar is a classic, but you can try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a little kick. Just cut the cubes small so they stay hidden inside.
Make it spicy.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for some heat.
Air fryer option.
These cook beautifully in the air fryer at 375°F for about 10–12 minutes. Just flip halfway for even browning.
Make ahead.
You can prep and stuff the meatballs in advance, then refrigerate them uncooked for up to 24 hours. They also freeze well after baking; perfect for busy nights.

For a comforting twist on tradition, check out this crockpot cheeseburger soup recipe, creamy, meaty, and soul-warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey works well, just add a splash of milk or extra egg yolk to keep it moist.

Can I freeze these meatloaf morsels?
Yes! After baking, let them cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

What dipping sauce goes best with these?
Ketchup is a classic, but barbecue sauce, ranch, or spicy mayo make great dips too.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Definitely. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers and check your sauces for gluten-free labeling.

Want a low-carb idea that’s still cheesy and satisfying? Try the low-carb chicken casserole; it’s a great make-ahead dinner option.

Conclusion

These cheddar-stuffed meatloaf morsels are the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. They’re simple, satisfying, and versatile; whether you’re serving them for dinner, parties, or as a fun way to switch up meatloaf night. Best of all, they bring real joy to the table.

Like all my recipes, this one’s been tested, tasted, and fully devoured at home. If you’re looking for more bites with bold flavor, don’t miss the prosciutto-wrapped mozzarella bites, they’re just as crave-worthy.

Now, go make your kitchen smell like melted cheddar and dinnertime happiness.

For more easy and satisfying recipes, join me on Pinterest – where good food meets great company!

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Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf Morsels

Why You’ll Love This Cheddar-Stuffed Meatloaf Morsels Recipe