Description
A bold twist on classic meatloaf, this Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf is creamy, cheesy, and just the right amount of spicy. Cream cheese and cheddar melt into every bite, while jalapeños add a kick of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 fresh jalapeños, finely diced and seeds removed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, and milk. Mix gently until just combined.
- Add cream cheese, 1½ cups cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Mix until evenly incorporated without overmixing.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use ground turkey as a leaner alternative to beef.
- For more heat, leave in jalapeño seeds or add cayenne pepper.
- Try using pepper jack or mozzarella for a different cheese flavor.
- Don’t overmix to ensure a tender meatloaf.
- Resting after baking helps the meatloaf hold its shape when sliced.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
