Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 0.25 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
  • 0.5 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; avoid over-mixing to prevent tough meatloaf bites.
  3. Take a small amount of the meat mixture (about the size of a golf ball) and form a shallow cup in the center to create a pocket for the cheese.
  4. Place about a tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese into the center of the meat cup. Then, mold the sides of the meat around the cheese to form a ball. Repeat with the remaining meat mixture and cheese.
  5. Place the assembled meatloaf bites on the prepared baking sheet, arranging them a few inches apart to allow for even cooking.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatloaf bites are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
  7. While the meatloaf bites are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a small pot over medium heat for dipping.
  8. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

💡 Chef's Notes

Avoid over-mixing the meat to keep the bites tender.

Recipe by Elena - Recipe Creator & Food Blogger