These Cheesy Muffin Tin Meatloaf Bites are a delightful twist on the classic comfort food we all know and love. Growing up in the Midwest, meatloaf was a staple at family dinners, but as a busy professional, I needed a way to enjoy this nostalgic dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Enter the muffin tin! Not only do these mini meatloaves cook faster, but they also offer a perfectly crispy parmesan crust that’s hard to resist. Plus, they’re portioned perfectly for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner.
These meatloaf bites pair wonderfully with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad. For a more indulgent meal, consider serving them alongside mac and cheese or roasted vegetables. If you're hosting a gathering, these bites make a great appetizer when served with a tangy dipping sauce like ketchup or barbecue sauce.
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Cheesy Muffin Tin Meatloaf Bites
Servings: 12
Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 finely chopped onion
2 minced garlic cloves
1 beaten egg
1/2 cup milk
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 finely chopped onion
2 minced garlic cloves
1 beaten egg
1/2 cup milk
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and oregano until well combined.
Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups, pressing down gently to fill each cup.
Optionally, top each meatloaf bite with a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Allow the meatloaf bites to cool slightly before removing them from the muffin tin.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
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Variations & Tips
For a leaner option, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the mixture for added nutrition. If you're a fan of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. These bites are also great for meal prep; simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze them for up to a month.