Description
This Zesty Spicy Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf reinvents classic comfort food by combining ground beef with spicy jalapeños, creamy melting cheese, smoky paprika, and crispy bacon. Topped with a cheesy crust and finished with fresh cilantro, this flavorful meatloaf offers a perfect balance of heat, smokiness, and indulgence, ideal for a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Mixture
- 1 lb Ground Beef (Preferably grass-fed)
- 2 pcs Jalapeños (Diced, adjust to taste)
- 1 cup Creamy Cheese (Choose your favorite melting cheese)
- 4 oz Bacon (Crumbled, substitute with turkey bacon for leaner)
- 1 tbsp Smoky Paprika (For depth and smokiness)
- 2 pcs Eggs (Binds ingredients)
- To taste Seasonings (salt, pepper, etc.) (Customize to your liking)
Topping
- 1 cup Cheese Topping (Grated, for an indulgent crust)
- 1 tbsp Chopped Cilantro (For fresh flavor post-baking)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the ideal temperature for even baking of the meatloaf.
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather all the ingredients into a large mixing bowl to have everything ready for mixing.
- Mix Ingredients: Combine the ground beef, diced jalapeños, creamy cheese, crumbled bacon, smoky paprika, eggs, and seasonings in the bowl. Mix thoroughly until all components are well incorporated and evenly distributed.
- Shape the Loaf: Form the mixed meat into a loaf shape and place it into a greased baking dish to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for approximately 45 to 60 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
- Add Cheese Topping: About 10 minutes before the end of baking, sprinkle the grated cheese topping evenly over the meatloaf to create a delicious, melty crust.
- Rest the Meatloaf: Once baked, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf moist and easier to slice.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a fresh flavor and serve warm to enjoy the rich, spicy, and smoky flavors.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of jalapeños to control the spice level according to your taste preferences.
- Use turkey bacon as a leaner alternative to reduce fat content.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) to fully cook ground beef safely.
- Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps retain moisture and improves texture.
- Feel free to substitute the creamy cheese with your favorite melting cheese such as mozzarella, cheddar, or Monterey Jack.
