This Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf is a fun twist on a classic! It’s packed with spicy jalapeños and creamy cheese, bringing a kick to every bite. Plus, it’s super easy to make!
I love how it combines two favorites: meatloaf and jalapeño poppers! Serve it with a side of mashed potatoes, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to impress friends and family. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for great flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind the texture may differ.
Cheeses: Cheddar cheese adds a nice sharpness, and cream cheese gives creaminess. If you want to switch things up, mix in pepper jack for extra spice or use goat cheese for a unique flavor.
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños give a real kick! If you’re sensitive to spice, use bell peppers instead or just a few slices of jalapeños to keep it mild.
Bacon: Bacon on top makes it deliciously crispy. If you want a lighter option, turkey bacon works too! You can even omit the bacon for a lower fat version.
How Can I Ensure My Meatloaf Holds Together?
A common struggle with meatloaf is keeping it from falling apart. To help bind everything well, use breadcrumbs and eggs as they absorb moisture and hold the ingredients together. Be gentle when mixing; overworking can lead to a dense loaf.
- Use breadcrumbs, but don’t be afraid to swap with crushed crackers or oatmeal for variety.
- Let the meatloaf rest after cooking; this helps the juices redistribute and makes slicing easier.
How to Make Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3-4 fresh jalapeños, sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Topping:
- 8-10 slices of bacon
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf will take about 20 minutes to prepare and approximately 60-75 minutes to bake. Plus, you’ll let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. All in all, you’ll be enjoying this delicious dish in about 1.5 hours!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with foil to catch any drippings from the meatloaf.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together gently until well combined; be careful not to overmix!
3. Construct the Meatloaf:
On a large piece of parchment paper or foil, flatten half of the meat mixture into a rectangle about 9×5 inches. This will be the bottom layer of your meatloaf.
4. Add the Cheese and Jalapeños:
Spread the softened cream cheese evenly over the flattened meat. Then, layer the sliced jalapeños and shredded cheddar cheese on top of the cream cheese.
5. Seal it Up:
Take the remaining meat mixture and gently flatten it out. Place it over the cheese and jalapeños, sealing the edges by pressing them down lightly.
6. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer your meatloaf to the prepared baking sheet or loaf pan, making sure it’s nicely shaped. Now, lay the bacon slices over the top of the meatloaf, slightly overlapping them for maximum flavor.
7. Bake:
Bake the meatloaf uncovered in the preheated oven for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy!
8. Crisp Up the Bacon:
If you prefer crispy bacon on top, broil the meatloaf for an additional 3-5 minutes after baking. Just keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
9. Let It Rest:
Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute for better flavor and makes slicing easier.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your meatloaf with chopped fresh chives or parsley before serving. Enjoy your Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf warm, and consider pairing it with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe! Just keep in mind that ground turkey tends to be drier, so you might want to add a bit more moisture, like an extra egg or a little more cream cheese.
How Can I Adjust the Spiciness?
If you want to reduce the spiciness, make sure to remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños. For a milder option, consider using just one jalapeño or substituting with bell peppers.
Can I Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before you bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking it straight from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave slices or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Enjoy your leftovers with a fresh side salad or mashed potatoes!