This Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf is a fun twist on a classic! It’s packed with juicy ground beef, cream cheese, and spicy jalapeños. The melted cheese on top makes it extra tasty!
I love how it’s a hearty dish that feels special without being fancy. Plus, leftovers make amazing sandwiches the next day—if they last that long! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the best flavor and moisture. If you’d like a leaner option, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken, but be aware it may need extra fat, like olive oil, to keep it moist.
Cream Cheese: This is crucial for the creamy center. If you want a lighter option, you could use low-fat cream cheese or even Neufchâtel cheese. Just remember, the richness adds great flavor!
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños give this dish that signature heat. You can adjust the spice level by removing the seeds or using milder peppers like Anaheim or poblano. For a kick without fresh peppers, try pickled jalapeños instead.
Bacon: Adding bacon on top gives a delicious crispiness and flavor. If you’re avoiding pork, you can use turkey bacon or omit it completely. Consider adding extra cheese as an alternative topping!
How Do You Avoid a Dry Meatloaf?
To keep your meatloaf moist, focus on mixing just enough. Overmixing can lead to tough meat. Always include moist ingredients like eggs, milk, and the cream cheese filling to enhance texture. Here are some tips:
- Mix your ground beef with the other ingredients only until blended.
- Adding panko helps absorb moisture and keeps things light.
- Press the meatloaf mixture lightly into the pan, don’t pack it tightly.
Also, let it rest after baking; this helps redistribute juices within the meatloaf for a juicy slice!
Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 3-4 fresh jalapeños, sliced (seeds removed for less heat or left in for spicier)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 6-8 slices bacon (optional, for topping)
- 1/4 cup ketchup or BBQ sauce (for glaze)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf will take about 20 minutes to prepare, and 60 to 75 minutes to bake. After baking, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. So overall, plan for about 1 hour and 45 minutes to get this delicious dish on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your loaf pan by lightly greasing it or lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together until just combined—be careful not to overwork the meat to keep it tender!
3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and the sliced jalapeños. This will be the creamy, spicy layer inside your meatloaf!
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
On a clean surface or in a large bowl, take half of the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf. Make sure to flatten it out a bit to create a base for the filling.
5. Add the Filling:
Spread the cream cheese and jalapeño mixture evenly over the base layer of meatloaf you just shaped. Be generous with the filling for a delicious surprise inside!
6. Seal It Up:
Take the remaining ground beef mixture and carefully place it on top of the cream cheese filling, sealing the edges well to avoid any leakage during baking. Shape it into a loaf shape as you go.
7. Get It Ready for Baking:
Place the meatloaf in the prepared loaf pan or on your baking sheet. This is where it will bake into a deliciously hearty dish!
8. Glaze It:
Spread ketchup or BBQ sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf, adding a nice glaze and flavor!
9. Top with Bacon (Optional):
If you’re using bacon, lay the slices over the top of the meatloaf. This will add amazing flavor and crispiness as it cooks!
10. Bake:
Put your meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 60-75 minutes. It’s ready when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
11. Add More Cheese:
About 10 minutes before it’s done, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top to melt it—yum!
12. Rest and Slice:
Once out of the oven, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes. This helps keep it juicy when you slice it up!
13. Serve & Enjoy:
Garnish with additional fresh jalapeño slices if you’d like and serve warm. This comforting meatloaf with a spicy kick is sure to be a hit!
Enjoy every bite of this cheesy, spicy Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf! It’s a hearty dish with wonderful flavors that’s perfect for dinner.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef! Just keep in mind that turkey is leaner, so consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or an extra egg to keep it moist. The cooking time may also vary slightly, so check the internal temperature.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or oven. If reheating in the oven, cover it with foil to retain moisture, heating it at 350°F until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and fill it in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. If you want to freeze it, shape the meatloaf but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake it straight from the freezer, but adjust the baking time accordingly.
Is it Necessary to Add Bacon on Top?
Not at all! The bacon adds extra flavor and crispiness, but you can skip it if you prefer a lighter version. Consider topping it with more cheese or breadcrumbs instead for added texture!