There’s something incredibly satisfying about digging into a plate of freshly baked meat patties, especially when there’s gooey cheese waiting to surprise you at every bite. I discovered this recipe for Cheesy Baked Meat Patties on one of those chaotic weeknights when the last thing I wanted was to resort to fast food. With just a few simple ingredients, these patties come together effortlessly, transforming ordinary ground beef into a comforting meal that rivals any burger joint.
As I mixed the beef with aromatic spices and flavorful herbs, I could already envision the happy faces of my friends and family gathering around the dinner table, excited for the feast to come. The best part? These delicious patties are baked to golden perfection, offering a healthier twist without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for busy evenings or casual gatherings, they promise to take your weeknight dinners to the next level. Let's dive into this ultimate comfort food that's bound to become a household favorite!
Why are Cheesy Baked Meat Patties a must-try?
Simplicity meets deliciousness with this easy recipe, perfect for any home cook. Irresistible flavor is achieved through a delightful blend of beef, spices, and melted cheese, creating a dish that everyone will love. Busy weeknights? No problem! These patties come together quickly, ensuring quality family time over fast food. Versatile enough for any occasion, serve them as-is or in buns with your favorite toppings. Crowd-pleaser status secured-your guests will be asking for seconds! Enjoy these flavors and consider pairing them with something satisfying like creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Cheesy Baked Meat Patties Ingredients
For the Patties
• Beef Mince (680 g, 20% fat) - The base of these Cheesy Baked Meat Patties that delivers rich flavor and texture; turkey mince is an option but may need extra oil for moisture.
• Grated Onion (1 small) - Adds hidden moisture and sweetness to the patties without being visible in the final dish.
• Garlic Cloves (2, minced) - A must for elevating flavor with its aromatic punch.
• Breadcrumbs (60 g) - Keeps the patties from falling apart and provides a great texture.
• Egg (1 large) - This binds the ingredients together, making sure your patties hold shape during baking.
• Milk (2 tbsp) - Enhances moisture, ensuring a juicy bite in every patty.
• Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp) - Gives an umami kick that deepens the flavor profile.
• Mustard (1 tsp) - Introduces a tanginess that balances out the richness of the beef.
• Italian Herb Blend (1 tsp) - Infuses the patties with an aromatic herbal note that brightens the flavor.
• Smoked Paprika (½ tsp) - Adds a subtle smoky essence that beautifully complements the beef.
• Salt (1 tsp) - Essential for amplifying all the lovely flavors in the mixture.
• Black Pepper (½ tsp) - Offers a hint of warmth and depth to the overall taste.For the Cheesy Filling and Topping
• Cheese for Filling (170 g, mozzarella or cheddar) - The star of the show that melts into gooey goodness right in the center.
• Grated Cheese for Topping (120 g, mozzarella or cheddar) - Melts on top for an irresistible cheesy finish.For Baking
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp) - Brushed on top before baking for a beautiful golden color and slight crispiness.
• Fresh Herbs (chopped parsley or chives, optional) - Adds a pop of color and freshness once served.
Enjoy the process of making these Cheesy Baked Meat Patties as they promise to delight your taste buds and fill your home with irresistible aromas!
How to Make Cheesy Baked Meat Patties
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper. Lightly grease it with oil to prevent sticking.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the beef mince, grated onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, Italian herb blend, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
Form Patties: Divide the mixture into 10-12 equal portions. Flatten a portion in your palm, place a cheese cube in the center, and fold the meat around it, shaping into a patty about 1.5 cm thick.
Prepare for Baking: Arrange the patties on the prepared baking tray and brush the tops with olive oil to encourage a nice golden color as they bake.
Bake Patties: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes. Remove from the oven, sprinkle grated cheese on top, and return to bake for an additional 5-8 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, reaching an internal temperature of 71°C.
Rest and Serve: Let the patties rest for about 3 minutes after baking. For a fresh finish, garnish with chopped parsley or chives before serving hot!
Optional: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes for a complete comfort meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Baked Meat Patties
- Room Temperature: Allow patties to cool completely before storing at room temperature for up to 2 hours. For optimal freshness, refrigerate any leftovers as soon as possible.
- Fridge: Store leftover Cheesy Baked Meat Patties in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain their delicious texture.
- Freezer: For long-term storage, place cooked patties in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat with fresh cheese when ready to serve.
- Reheating: To reheat, bake patties from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is bubbly.
What to Serve with Cheesy Baked Meat Patties?
Transform your hearty Cheesy Baked Meat Patties into a delightful feast with these perfect pairings that elevate your meal experience.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery, smooth potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the savory patties, soaking up flavors beautifully.
- Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic add a crunch and freshness that brighten up the dish while complementing the richness of the patties.
- Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw refreshes the palate and balances the savory flavors of the meat, making each bite even more enjoyable.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, these fries are the perfect alternative to traditional fries, adding a fun twist to your meal.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad drizzled with vinaigrette brings a burst of freshness and colors that enhance the overall presentation of your comforting main course.
- BBQ Sauce for Dipping: Add an extra layer of flavor by serving your patties with tangy BBQ sauce for a delightful contrast to the cheesiness.
- Ice-cold Lemonade: The refreshing citrus notes of lemonade cleanse the palate, making it a delightful drink choice to complement your hearty dinner.
- Chocolate Brownies: End your meal on a sweet note with fudgy brownies-perfect for satisfying those dessert cravings after such delicious patties!
Variations & Substitutions for Cheesy Baked Meat Patties
There’s so much room to get creative with this comforting dish, letting your imagination run wild with delightful twists and swaps!
Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep it vegan-friendly without losing that cheesy goodness.
Lean Protein: Swap out beef for ground turkey or chicken-just add a touch more olive oil to keep them moist and flavorful.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the mixture for a fiery surprise in every bite.
Herbaceous Boost: Try fresh herbs like basil or cilantro instead of Italian spices; this adds a refreshing burst of flavor.
Veggie Loaded: Mix in finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and a pop of color!
Different Fillings: Substitute the cheese filling with feta or blue cheese for a tangy twist that will excite your taste buds.
Breading Crunch: For an extra crispy exterior, coat the patties in crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs before baking.
Caribbean Flair: Add a touch of allspice and chopped scallions to the meat mix, creating a unique flavor that transports you to warmer climates.
These variations encourage you to make this recipe your own! Enjoy experimenting with tastes and textures until you find your perfect cheesy creation.
Expert Tips for Cheesy Baked Meat Patties
- Wet Hands: Use damp hands when shaping patties to prevent sticking, making the process much easier and cleaner.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix the meat mixture until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough patties that lose their tender texture.
- Seal the Cheese: Ensure the meat fully encases the cheese filling to avoid leaks during baking-this keeps the cheesy surprise intact.
- Oil for Browning: Brushing the tops with olive oil not only enhances flavor but also gives the Cheesy Baked Meat Patties a lovely golden-brown finish.
- Resting Time: Allow patties to rest for 3 minutes after baking; this helps the juices redistribute for a juicier bite.
- Flavor Up: Experiment with spices or different cheese types to customize the taste and make your Cheesy Baked Meat Patties uniquely yours!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Baked Meat Patties are fantastic for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the meat mixture and form the patties up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover them tightly and refrigerate to maintain freshness. If you want to store them longer, they can be frozen after shaping for up to 3 months-just make sure to use an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, bake from frozen, allowing an extra 5-10 minutes of baking time. Enjoy the convenience of having delicious, homemade Cheesy Baked Meat Patties ready to pop in the oven, ensuring you can savor quality meals without the stress!
Cheesy Baked Meat Patties Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best beef mince for my patties?
Absolutely! When selecting beef mince for your Cheesy Baked Meat Patties, look for a blend with about 20% fat. This fat content ensures the patties remain juicy and flavorful while baking. Avoid meat with dark spots or a foul smell, as this can indicate spoilage.
How should I store leftover Cheesy Baked Meat Patties?
Very! After allowing your patties to cool completely, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When ready to enjoy, you can gently reheat them in the oven to retain their texture and flavor.
Can I freeze Cheesy Baked Meat Patties, and how do I do it?
Of course! To freeze, cook the patties without the cheese topping first. Once they’re cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, bake from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes, adding fresh cheese on top during the last few minutes.
What should I do if my patties fall apart during cooking?
No worries! If your patties are falling apart, it could be due to overmixing or not using enough binding agents. Ensure that you mix the ingredients just until combined and consider adding a bit more breadcrumb or an additional egg to help them hold together better.
Are Cheesy Baked Meat Patties suitable for people with gluten allergies?
Certainly! For a gluten-free option, simply swap out regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs. This maintains the binding properties while making the patties suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities. Always double-check your ingredient labels to ensure they meet dietary requirements.
Irresistibly Juicy Cheesy Baked Meat Patties for Comfort Food Cravings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper. Lightly grease it with oil to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the beef mince, grated onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, Italian herb blend, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Form Patties: Divide the mixture into 10-12 equal portions. Flatten a portion in your palm, place a cheese cube in the center, and fold the meat around it, shaping into a patty about 1.5 cm thick.
- Prepare for Baking: Arrange the patties on the prepared baking tray and brush the tops with olive oil to encourage a nice golden color as they bake.
- Bake Patties: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes. Remove from the oven, sprinkle grated cheese on top, and return to bake for an additional 5-8 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, reaching an internal temperature of 71°C.
- Rest and Serve: Let the patties rest for about 3 minutes after baking. For a fresh finish, garnish with chopped parsley or chives before serving hot!
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