Cheesy Little Cheddar Meatloaves – Quick & Delicious Family Dinner Idea!

Table of Contents: Little Cheddar Meatloaves

Little Cheddar Meatloaves

There’s something undeniably comforting about meatloaf—a dish that brings back memories of family dinners and cozy evenings. But what if we told you there’s a way to make it even better? Enter Little Cheddar Meatloaves, a delicious twist on the classic recipe that’s perfect for sharing, freezing, or serving as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Packed with shredded cheddar cheese and topped with a sweet-and-tangy glaze, these mini meatloaves are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Whether you’re planning a holiday feast, a family dinner, or an easy weeknight meal, these Mini Cheddar Meatloaves are versatile and full of flavor. Plus, their small size means they cook faster than a traditional meatloaf, making them a convenient option for busy cooks. Ready to dive in? Keep reading for step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and answers to all your FAQs.

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ALTERNATE NAMES & VARIATIONS

While we’re calling these Little Cheddar Meatloaves, you might also know them by other names, like Mini Cheddar Meatloaves or Cheddar Meatloaf Bites. These bite-sized delights are perfect for parties or as a portable snack. If you’re looking for variations, consider swapping the ground beef for ground turkey or pork, or experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack.

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INGREDIENTS FOR LITTLE CHEDDAR MEATLOAVES

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these irresistible Little Cheddar Meatloaves:

Meatloaf:

– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup quick oats
– 3/4 cup milk
– 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 2 – 2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
– 2 pounds ground beef (85/15 blend recommended)

Glaze:

– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 1/2 teaspoons mustard

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STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin or baking dish.

2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped onion, egg, quick oats, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until well combined.

3. Add the Cheese and Beef: Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and ground beef. Use your hands to mix gently but thoroughly without overworking the meat.

4. Shape the Meatloaves: Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions and shape them into mini meatloaves. Place them in the prepared muffin tin or baking dish.

5. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard until smooth.

6. Top with Glaze: Spoon the glaze evenly over the top of each mini meatloaf.

7. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatloaves are cooked through and the glaze is bubbly.

8. Cool and Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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RECIPE CARD BLOCK

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6 (2 meatloaves per serving) | Calories: Approximately 350 per serving

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WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS & EXPERT TIPS

These Little Cheddar Meatloaves are the ultimate comfort food for family dinners, thanks to their savory flavor and gooey cheese center. The quick oats and milk keep the meatloaves moist, while the tangy glaze adds a perfect finishing touch. For added flavor, try caramelizing the onions before mixing them into the meatloaf.

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STORAGE, FREEZING, AND REHEATING TIPS

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the cooled meatloaves on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave until heated through.

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PEOPLE ALSO ASK: LITTLE CHEDDAR MEATLOAVES

Q: HOW DO I MAKE MINI CHEDDAR CHEESE MEATLOAVES?

A: Making Mini Cheddar Cheese Meatloaves is simple! Combine the ingredients in a bowl, shape into mini loaves, and bake. The key is to mix gently to avoid tough meatloaves and to use a muffin tin for perfectly portioned bites.

Q: CAN I USE SHREDDED OR CUBED CHEDDAR?

A: Both shredded and cubed cheddar work well, but shredded cheese melts more evenly throughout the meatloaf. If using cubed cheese, ensure the pieces are small for even distribution.

Q: HOW LONG TO BAKE SMALL MEATLOAF PORTIONS?

A: Bake Small Meatloaf Portions for 25-30 minutes at 375°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 160°F.

Q: WHAT SIDES GO WITH CHEDDAR MEATLOAF?

A: Pair Cheddar Meatloaf with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

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CONCLUSION: LITTLE CHEDDAR MEATLOAVES

We hope you love making and eating these Little Cheddar Meatloaves as much as we do! They’re versatile, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Don’t forget to share your results with us on social media or leave a comment below. Happy cooking!

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