Description
Sizzling smoky jalapeno popper meatloaf delivers spicy comfort with creamy ranch drizzle, blending classic American diner vibes and zesty southwestern flair. Meat lovers will savor bold flavors that dance between hearty protein and tangy pepper excitement.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 2 pounds (907 grams) lean ground beef
- 4 strips turkey bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
Cheese and Dairy:
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) ranch dressing
Dry and Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 jalapenos, finely diced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Combine ground beef with breadcrumbs, beaten egg, finely diced onion, minced jalapenos, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a spacious mixing bowl, ensuring thorough incorporation of all ingredients.
- Gently fold softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and crumbled turkey bacon into the meat mixture, distributing them evenly without overmixing.
- Transfer the prepared mixture to a greased loaf pan or foil-lined baking sheet, carefully molding it into a uniform loaf shape with slightly rounded edges.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and position the rack in the center, allowing for consistent heat circulation.
- Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, monitoring the internal temperature until it reaches 160°F (71C) for proper food safety.
- Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and allow it to rest for 7-10 minutes, which helps redistribute internal juices and ensures a moist texture.
- Warm the ranch dressing slightly to enhance its drizzling consistency and pour in a decorative pattern over the sliced meatloaf just before serving.
Notes
- Customize heat levels by adjusting jalapeno quantity, removing seeds for milder flavor or adding more for extra spiciness.
- Ensure even mixing of ingredients to distribute flavors and prevent dry spots in the meatloaf.
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option that maintains similar texture and taste profile.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, maintaining the same binding properties.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg