Name: Cheddar Meatloaves: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 70 min
Yield: 6-8 individual meatloaves
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor); 1 pound ground pork; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped; 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped; 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned); 1 cup milk; 2 large eggs, lightly beaten; 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, cubed into 1/2-inch pieces; Optional: 1/4 cup ketchup or BBQ sauce for topping (per meatloaf)

Cheddar meatloaves, individual servings of comfort food perfection, are about to become your new weeknight obsession. Forget the days of dry, bland meatloaf! We're taking this classic dish to a whole new level with a cheesy, flavorful twist that will have everyone asking for seconds. Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy, savory meatloaf, studded with pockets of melted cheddar cheese – pure bliss, right?

Meatloaf itself has a fascinating history, evolving from humble beginnings as a way to use leftover scraps of meat. Its popularity soared during the Great Depression as an affordable and filling meal. While the basic concept has remained the same, countless variations have emerged, reflecting regional tastes and culinary creativity. These cheddar meatloaves are a delicious example of how to elevate a traditional recipe with simple yet impactful additions.

What's not to love? The combination of savory ground meat, aromatic seasonings, and gooey cheddar cheese is simply irresistible. These mini meatloaves are incredibly convenient, too. They cook faster than a large loaf, making them perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, individual portions are great for meal prepping or portion control. Get ready to experience meatloaf like never before!

Ingredients:

2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
1 pound ground pork
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
1 cup milk
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, cubed into 1/2-inch pieces
Optional: 1/4 cup ketchup or BBQ sauce for topping (per meatloaf)

Preparing the Meat Mixture:

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. Gently break up the meat with your hands, being careful not to overwork it. Overmixing can lead to a tough meatloaf.
In a separate skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic, chopped green bell pepper, and chopped red bell pepper. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the peppers are slightly softened. This step helps to mellow the flavors of the vegetables and prevents them from being too crunchy in the finished meatloaf.
Remove the skillet from the heat and let the vegetable mixture cool slightly. This is important because adding hot vegetables to the meat mixture can partially cook the meat and affect the texture.
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let this mixture sit for a few minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to absorb the milk. This will help to bind the meatloaf together and keep it moist.
Add the cooled vegetable mixture, the soaked breadcrumb mixture, beaten eggs, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried Italian herbs, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder to the bowl with the ground meat.
Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Remember that the cheddar cheese will also add saltiness, so don't overdo it at this stage.
Using your hands (or a large spoon), gently mix all the ingredients together until just combined. Again, be careful not to overmix. You want the ingredients to be evenly distributed, but you don't want to develop the gluten in the meat, which can make the meatloaf tough.

Forming the Individual Meatloaves:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This will make cleanup much easier.
Divide the meat mixture into 6-8 equal portions. The number of portions will depend on how large you want your individual meatloaves to be.
Take one portion of the meat mixture and gently form it into a small loaf shape. Make a well in the center of the loaf.
Place a generous amount of cheddar cheese cubes into the well. Don't be shy with the cheese! This is what makes these meatloaves so delicious.
Gently close the meat around the cheese, sealing it inside the loaf. Make sure the cheese is completely enclosed to prevent it from melting out during baking.
Repeat steps 4-6 with the remaining portions of meat mixture and cheese.
Place the formed meatloaves on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each loaf.

Baking the Cheddar Meatloaves:

If desired, brush the top of each meatloaf with ketchup or BBQ sauce. This will add a nice glaze and extra flavor.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. Insert the thermometer into the center of one of the meatloaves, being careful not to touch the cheese.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the meatloaves rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful meatloaf.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the cheddar meatloaves hot, with your favorite side dishes. Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, and a simple salad are all great options.
Slice the meatloaves into thick slices and serve with a generous spoonful of pan juices (if any).
Leftover meatloaves can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
These meatloaves are also delicious cold, in sandwiches or salads.

Tips and Variations:

For a spicier meatloaf: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
For a healthier meatloaf: Use lean ground beef or ground turkey instead of ground pork. You can also add grated zucchini or carrots to the meat mixture for extra vegetables.
For a gluten-free meatloaf: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of regular breadcrumbs.
Experiment with different cheeses: Try using Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Gruyere cheese instead of cheddar.
Add bacon: Wrap each meatloaf in bacon before baking for extra flavor and crispiness.
Make a glaze: Instead of ketchup or BBQ sauce, try making a glaze with balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard.
Freeze for later: These meatloaves freeze well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then in foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Troubleshooting:

Meatloaf is dry: Make sure you are using a high-fat ground beef blend (80/20 is recommended). Also, avoid overcooking the meatloaf. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Meatloaf is falling apart: Make sure you are using enough breadcrumbs and eggs to bind the meat together. Also, avoid overmixing the meat mixture.
Cheese is melting out: Make sure you are completely sealing the cheese inside the meatloaf. You can also try chilling the meatloaves in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking to help the cheese stay put.
Meatloaf is bland: Make sure you are using enough seasoning. Don't be afraid to add extra salt, pepper, and herbs to the meat mixture.

Why This Recipe Works:

This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser because it combines the comforting flavors of classic meatloaf with the irresistible appeal of melted cheddar cheese. The combination of ground beef and ground pork provides a rich and savory base, while the vegetables add moisture and flavor. The breadcrumbs and eggs act as binders, ensuring that the meatloaf holds its shape and stays moist. And of course, the cheddar cheese adds a creamy, cheesy burst of flavor that elevates this meatloaf to a whole new level.

The individual meatloaf format is also a great way to ensure even cooking and portion control. Plus, it makes them perfect for meal prepping and freezing for later. Whether you're looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a comforting dish to serve to guests, these cheddar meatloaves are sure to be a hit.

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! Let me know in the comments if you have any questions or if you try any variations. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These mini cheddar meatloaves are truly a game-changer for weeknight dinners or even a fun twist on a classic potluck dish. I know, I know, meatloaf can sometimes get a bad rap, but trust me on this one. The combination of savory ground meat, the sharp tang of cheddar cheese, and the perfectly portioned individual servings elevates this comfort food to a whole new level. Why is this recipe a must-try? Well, first and foremost, it's incredibly easy to make. We're talking minimal prep time and straightforward instructions, perfect for those busy evenings when you just don't have the energy for a complicated meal. Secondly, the flavor is simply irresistible. The cheddar cheese melts beautifully throughout the meatloaves, creating a rich and cheesy interior that's guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters. And finally, the individual portions make serving a breeze and eliminate any arguments over who gets the bigger slice! But the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different variations to suit your taste. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meat mixture. If you're a fan of mushrooms, sauté some diced mushrooms and onions and incorporate them into the meatloaf for added depth of flavor. You could even try using different types of cheese, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for a unique twist. As for serving suggestions, the possibilities are endless! These mini cheddar meatloaves pair perfectly with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic comfort food meal. Or, for a lighter option, serve them with a fresh salad and a side of roasted vegetables. They're also fantastic served on slider buns with your favorite toppings, like ketchup, mustard, or even a tangy barbecue sauce. My personal favorite is to top them with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh chives. Don't be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own! I encourage you to try these cheddar meatloaves as soon as possible. I promise you won't be disappointed. They're a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a cheesy twist. Once you've tried them, I'd absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What were your favorite serving suggestions? Share your photos and comments below! I'm always eager to see how you make this recipe your own and to learn from your culinary adventures. Cooking is all about sharing and inspiring each other, so let's create a community of meatloaf lovers! So, go ahead, grab your ingredients, and get cooking! I'm confident that these mini cheddar meatloaves will become a new family favorite. Happy cooking, and I can't wait to hear what you think! Remember to adjust the seasoning to your liking and don't overbake them to keep them moist and delicious. Enjoy the cheesy goodness!