These Meatloaf Bites are a fun twist on classic meatloaf, perfect for bite-sized munching! With tasty ground meat, spices, and a hint of sweetness, they are sure to please everyone.
They’re like little flavor bombs! I love how easy they are to make—just mix, shape, and bake. Perfect for parties or a cozy dinner at home. You can’t eat just one! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works well, too!
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs give great texture, but you can use panko for extra crunch. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are a fantastic alternative if needed.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice flavor boost. If you want a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can give you a similar cheesy taste without the dairy.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic are key for flavor. If you’re short on time, onion powder and garlic powder can be used as a substitute. Just reduce the amounts to avoid overpowering the mix.
Ketchup, Brown Sugar, and Dijon Mustard: The topping mixture is simple but packs a punch. Try BBQ sauce instead of ketchup for a different flavor, or use a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie option.
How Do You Keep Meatloaf Bites Tender?
A common struggle with meatloaf can be dryness, especially in bite-sized versions. Here’s how to keep them tender:
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture. Mix just until combined to keep the texture light.
- Use an egg and milk to bind; these add moisture. If you’re avoiding dairy, an extra egg could do the trick.
- Shape the meat gently; packing it too firmly can lead to dense bites.
- Consider stuffing them with cheese for extra moisture and flavor.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have meatloaf bites that are juicy and delicious every time!
How to Make Meatloaf Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for stuffing)
- 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for topping)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and another 20-25 minutes for baking, making the total time around 35 minutes. Just a bit of mixing and shaping, and you’ll have these tasty bites ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, lightly grease a mini muffin pan or line it with silicone liners to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix everything together until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this keeps the meat tender.
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Take about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it slightly in your palm. If you’d like a cheesy surprise, place a small amount of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center. Then, mold the meat around it to create a ball. This will keep the cheese melted and delicious inside your meat bite!
4. Place in the Muffin Pan:
Put each meatball into the prepared mini muffin tin. Press down lightly to flatten the tops slightly. This helps them cook evenly.
5. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Take about 1/2 teaspoon of this glaze and spoon it over each meatball to give them a tasty topping.
6. Bake the Meatloaf Bites:
Place the muffin pan in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the glaze is bubbly and caramelized. You want them to be nicely browned on top!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a nice touch. Let the meatloaf bites rest for a few minutes before serving, so they hold their shape.
8. Enjoy!
These Meatloaf Bites are perfect as appetizers, party snacks, or a fun dinner! Enjoy the flavors and the smiles they bring!
Can I Use Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives. Just keep in mind that they may cook slightly faster, so check for doneness earlier.
Can I Freeze Meatloaf Bites?
Yes, you can! After baking, let the meatloaf bites cool completely. Then, store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, just bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
How Do I Know When They’re Done Cooking?
For meatloaf bites, they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) when fully cooked. You can use a meat thermometer to check this easily!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape the bites a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate them, then bake right before you’re ready to serve.