Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Muffins

Description

Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Muffins

Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:

1 lb ground beef (or a mix with pork)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 small onion (finely chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)

1 egg

1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Filling:

1 cup mozzarella cheese (cut into cubes)

Topping:

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin.
Prepare the Meat Mixture:

In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Assemble the Muffins:

Divide the meat mixture into 6–8 portions. Flatten each portion and wrap it around a cube of mozzarella, forming a ball.
Place each ball into the greased muffin tin.
Bake the Meatloaf Muffins:

Bake for 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and top each muffin with a mix of cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
Melt the Cheese:

Return to the oven for another 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish & Serve:

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot. Perfect with mashed potatoes or a side salad!

Let me know if you’d like more hearty recipes!

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time.

1. Prep Work: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Cut the mozzarella into 6-8 equal cubes. Grease your muffin tin thoroughly to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Thoroughly: In your large bowl, combine all meatloaf ingredients. Use your hands to mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough muffins.
3. Form the Cups: Divide the mixture into equal portions. Create a well in the center of each portion with your thumb, place a cheese cube inside, and carefully seal the meat around it completely to prevent cheese leakage.
4. First Bake: Bake at 375°F for exactly 20 minutes. This cooks the meat through and sets the shape.
5. Final Melt: After adding the topping cheese, bake for 5-7 more minutes. Watch closely until the cheese is perfectly melted and golden.

Serving Suggestions

These muffins are a complete meal on their own but pair wonderfully with sides that complement their rich flavor. Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic parmesan roasted potatoes are classic choices. For a lighter option, serve with a crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed green beans. They also make excellent appetizers for a party when made in a mini-muffin tin.

How-to Summary

In short: Mix beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, onion, garlic, egg, and seasonings. Form portions around a cube of mozzarella. Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes. Top with cheddar and mozzarella, bake 5-7 more minutes until melted. Garnish with parsley.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling? Absolutely. While mozzarella offers the classic “pull,” provolone, gouda, or pepper jack work well. Ensure it’s a good melting cheese.

How can I make these gluten-free? Simply replace the breadcrumbs with an equal amount of gluten-free breadcrumbs or rolled oats.

Can I prepare these ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the muffins in the tin, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add 1-2 minutes to the baking time.

What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in an air fryer to restore the texture. Microwave reheating can make them soggy.

Why did my cheese leak out during baking? This usually means the cheese cube wasn’t fully enclosed. Ensure the meat seal is complete and avoid overfilling the muffin cup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Meat: This develops the proteins and results in a tough, dense texture. Mix just until combined.
• Using Only Lean Beef: Using beef that is too lean (like 95/5) can lead to dry muffins. An 80/20 blend or a beef/pork mix provides moisture and flavor.
• Skipping the Grease: Even non-stick pans benefit from a light coating of oil or cooking spray to guarantee easy removal.
• Under-seasoning: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper. Taste-test your mixture by cooking a small patty in a skillet before assembling all muffins.

Conclusion

Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf Muffins are a brilliant twist on a classic comfort food, offering individual portions packed with gooey, cheesy goodness. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining. Their versatility in pairing and make-ahead potential makes them a reliable and delicious addition to your recipe repertoire. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!