Description
This Smoky Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf combines a juicy, seasoned beef base with a creamy jalapeño cheddar center for a bold twist on classic comfort food. Finished with a cool ranch drizzle, it balances smoky depth, heat, and creaminess in every slice.
Ingredients
- Meatloaf Base:
- 1½ pounds (680 g) ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup (100 g) fresh breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- Cheesy Jalapeño Center:
- 2 medium jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds removed for milder heat)
- 4 ounces (113 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (120 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup (75 g) finely chopped smoked beef strips
- Cool Ranch Drizzle:
- ¼ cup (60 ml) ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice (optional)
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line or lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, gently mix ground beef, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, breadcrumbs, and eggs until just combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar, jalapeños, and smoked beef strips until creamy and evenly mixed.
- Press half of the meat mixture into the bottom of the prepared loaf pan.
- Spread the jalapeño cheese mixture evenly over the meat, leaving a ½-inch border around edges.
- Top with remaining meat mixture and press gently to seal edges and fully enclose filling.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Whisk together ranch dressing, sour cream, lime juice, and herbs. Drizzle over slices before serving.
Notes
- Avoid overmixing the meat to keep the texture tender.
- Remove jalapeño seeds for less heat.
- Let meatloaf rest before slicing to retain juices.
- Can be assembled up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated.
- Freezes well both baked and unbaked.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 820 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg
