Smoky Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf (Print Format)
Bold meatloaf with a hidden jalapeño popper center of cream cheese, cheddar, and bacon. Finished with cool ranch drizzle.
# Ingredients:
→ Meatloaf Base
01 -
1½ pounds ground beef
02 -
½ pound ground pork or sausage
03 -
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
04 -
½ teaspoon garlic powder
05 -
½ teaspoon onion powder
06 -
Salt and pepper to taste
07 -
1 cup breadcrumbs
08 -
2 large eggs
→ Cheesy Jalapeño Center
09 -
2 jalapeños, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
10 -
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
11 -
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
12 -
½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
→ Cool Ranch Drizzle
13 -
¼ cup ranch dressing
14 -
2 tablespoons sour cream
15 -
Optional: splash of lime juice or fresh herbs
# Steps:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a loaf pan with parchment paper or give it a good greasing. This keeps everything from sticking and makes cleanup easier!
02 -
In a large bowl, gently combine your ground beef, ground pork, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, breadcrumbs, eggs, salt, and pepper. Don't overmix it - you want tender meatloaf, not tough!
03 -
In another bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, cheddar, chopped jalapeños, and crumbled bacon. This is going to be the amazing surprise in the middle!
04 -
Press half of your meat mixture into the bottom of the loaf pan. Spread all that cheesy jalapeño filling on top, then add the rest of the meat mixture over it. Press the edges down to seal that filling inside.
05 -
Pop it in the oven for 45-55 minutes until the internal temperature hits 160°F. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing - this helps keep all those juices locked in!
06 -
While your meatloaf is resting, whisk together ranch dressing, sour cream, and a splash of lime juice if you want. Drizzle this over each slice right before serving for the perfect finish!
# Tips:
01 -
This meatloaf is like a jalapeño popper and comfort food had the most delicious baby! The creamy, spicy center is a total game-changer.
02 -
Perfect for meal prep - leftovers reheat beautifully and taste just as good the next day.
03 -
Don't skip the resting time after baking - it really makes a difference in keeping everything moist and tender.