The house always smells so good when I cook this. This recipe is definitely a hit!

Directions

1. Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a standard muffin tin with non-stick spray or oil and set aside.

2. Make the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, onion, milk, egg, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a fork to mix until the ingredients are just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.

3. Form the Bites: Take a generous tablespoon-sized portion of the meat mixture and flatten it into a small disc in the palm of your hand. Place about 1 teaspoon of shredded mozzarella in the center. Carefully fold the meat around the cheese, pinching it closed to form a sealed ball. Place each ball seam-side down into a prepared muffin tin cup. Repeat with the remaining mixture.

4. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, stir together the ketchup and brown sugar until smooth.

5. Top and Bake: Spoon or brush the glaze evenly over the top of each meatloaf bite.

6. Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

7. Cool and Serve: Remove the pan from the oven and let the bites cool in the tin for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to settle and makes them easier to remove. Run a small knife around the edges if needed, then transfer to a serving platter. Serve warm.

Chef’s Tip: For an easy release, consider using silicone muffin liners! For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the glaze or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.