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Cheddar-Stuffed Meat Loaves with Ketchup topping

Cheddar-Stuffed Meat Loaves with Ketchup Topping

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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 individual meat loaves

Equipment

  • Loaf pan (optional) Though this recipe shapes mini loaves free-form on a baking sheet, a loaf pan can be used if you prefer uniform shapes or are inspired by loaf pan recipes.
  • Baking sheet Lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  • Mixing bowls One large for the meat mixture, one small for the ketchup glaze.
  • Knife and Cutting Board For prepping veggies and cheese.
  • Box grater (optional) If you prefer shredded cheese over cubes.
  • Meat Thermometer To ensure your meat loaves reach a safe internal temperature (160°F).

Ingredients
  

For the meat loaves

  • 1 ½ lbs ground beef 80/20 for flavor and moisture
  • ½ lb ground pork for a richer, juicier texture
  • 1 cup finely diced yellow onion
  • ½ cup finely diced green bell pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs panko or plain
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup whole milk
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 6 oz sharp cheddar cheese cut into ½-inch cubes

For the ketchup topping

  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions
 

Preheat & Prep

  1. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. If you’re using a loaf pan, grease it lightly with oil or nonstick spray.

Make the Meat Mixture

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Add breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix everything with your hands or a spoon until just combined—don’t overmix, or you’ll end up with a dense loaf.

Stuff with Cheese

  1. Divide the meat mixture into four equal portions. Take one portion, flatten it into a patty, place 4–5 cubes of cheddar in the center, and wrap the meat around the cheese to form a mini loaf. Repeat with the remaining portions.

Glaze It

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and vinegar. Spoon or brush the glaze over the tops of each mini loaf generously.

Bake

  1. Place the meat loaves on your prepared baking sheet (or into a loaf pan, if using) and bake for 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature hits 160°F and the tops are caramelized and bubbly.

Rest & Serve

  1. Let the loaves rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This keeps the juices locked in and makes slicing easier if you’re planning leftovers—or sandwiching between slices of homemade bread loaf.