Description
Cheesy Mini Meatloaf offers a comforting, flavorful twist on a classic dish with juicy ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and savory seasonings. Perfectly portioned and quick to bake, these mini loaves make weeknight dinners easy, kid-friendly, and meal-prep ready. Enjoy a gooey cheesy center, customizable variations, and simple ingredients for a satisfying homemade meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh or lean ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons ketchup or tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prep Your Ingredients: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic to evenly distribute these flavorful components throughout the meat mixture.
- Mix the Meatloaf Base: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients without overworking the meat.
- Add Cheese: Reserve about 2 tablespoons of shredded cheddar cheese for topping. Fold the remaining cheese into the meat mixture carefully to keep pockets of melted cheese inside the mini loaves.
- Form Mini Meatloaves: Divide the mixture into equal portions (about 8 mini loaves) and shape each into a small loaf or oval to fit on your baking sheet or muffin tin.
- Top and Bake: Place mini meatloaves on a lined baking sheet. Spread a thin layer of ketchup or tomato sauce on top of each loaf and sprinkle with the reserved shredded cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, or until cooked through and golden on top. Use a thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Notes
- Don’t overmix the meat to keep the meatloaf tender and moist.
- Use a food thermometer to cook meatloaf to an internal temperature of 160°F for safety and juiciness.
- Let mini meatloaves rest for a few minutes after baking to lock in juices.
- Choose cheeses that melt well like cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for gooey centers.
- Customize toppings with BBQ sauce or ranch dressing for variety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini meatloaf
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 75mg