Miniature Cheese Loaves
Miniature cheese loaves are savory, flavorful bites featuring ground beef, Swiss cheese, and herbs, baked to perfection—ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests. Delicious and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together lightly all ingredients except cheese and spaghetti sauce.
- Shape the mixture into 8 small meat loaves and place them on a jelly roll pan.
- Press cheese cubes into each loaf and cover with spaghetti sauce.
- Bake at 400°F for 35 minutes or until browned.
- Cool and refrigerate.
- Reheat in spaghetti sauce until well heated before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for ground chuck. You can also use whole wheat bread crumbs for added fiber. If you prefer, replace Swiss cheese with cheddar or mozzarella. To enhance flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Worcestershire sauce to the mixture. Mixing in some finely chopped spinach can also add a nutritious twist.
Serving Suggestions
These miniature cheese loaves make a delightful main dish. Serve them alongside a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Pair with garlic bread or a side of pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs. For a fun twist, serve with a side of Cocktail Rye Bread Cheesios for added crunch and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover miniature cheese loaves in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish with some spaghetti sauce and cover. Heat in the microwave until warmed through, or bake in the oven at 350°F until hot, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Miniature Cheese Loaves contains roughly 396 calories, with 17g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (84% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1571mg per serving (68% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the mini cheese loaves?
Yes, you can freeze the mini cheese loaves before baking. Shape them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, cook from frozen, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for the condensed vegetable soup?
If you don't have condensed vegetable soup, you can use homemade vegetable broth mixed with a little cornstarch to thicken it. Alternatively, a can of cream of mushroom soup works well too, adding a different flavor profile while keeping the dish creamy.
How do I know when the mini cheese loaves are done?
The mini cheese loaves are done when they are nicely browned on the outside and the internal temperature reaches 160°F. You can also cut one open to ensure that it's cooked through and the cheese is melted. A meat thermometer is the best tool for accuracy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).