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Crispy Cheesy Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf Muffins

crispy cheesy mozzarella stuffed meatloaf muffins - featured image

These bite-sized meatloaf muffins feature a juicy beef base, gooey mozzarella center, and a crispy Parmesan breadcrumb topping. Quick to make and endlessly customizable, they’re perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or lunchboxes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
  • 1/3 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme mix)
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 6 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into 12 cubes (about 3/4 inch each)
  • 1/3 cup extra breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted
  • Nonstick cooking spray or butter (for greasing muffin tin)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick spray or butter.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, beaten eggs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, dried herbs, and ketchup. Mix gently until just combined.
  3. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of meat mixture into each muffin cup, pressing down to cover the bottom. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center of each, then top with another 2 tablespoons of meat mixture, sealing the cheese inside. Smooth the tops.
  4. In a small bowl, mix extra breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and melted butter. Sprinkle a generous pinch over each muffin.
  5. Bake on the center rack for 25-30 minutes, until tops are golden and internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  6. Let muffins rest in the pan for 5 minutes, then loosen edges with a butter knife and carefully lift out.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or a drizzle of ketchup if desired.

Notes

Don’t overmix the meat mixture to keep muffins tender. Seal cheese well to prevent leaks. For extra crispy tops, broil for 1-2 minutes after baking. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and dairy-free cheese for dietary adaptations. Muffins can be made ahead, refrigerated, or frozen for later.

Nutrition

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