Smoky Jalapeno Popper Meatloaf: A Zesty Twist on Comfort Food

Discover the Smoky Jalapeno Popper Meatloaf, a bold twist on comfort food featuring smoky paprika and spicy jalapenos.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 45

Resting Time 5

Total Time 1 5

Servings: 6 slices

Course: DINNER

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

1 pound Ground Beef Main protein for richness; substitute all with ground beef for a heartier taste.
1 pound Ground Pork Adds moisture to the meatloaf; can be replaced with ground turkey.
1 cup Breadcrumbs Provides structure to bind ingredients; gluten-free breadcrumbs work.
1 large Egg Binds the mixture together.
8 ounces Cream Cheese Adds creaminess and richness; sour cream is a substitute.
1 cup Cheddar Cheese Melts beautifully, try Monterey Jack as an alternative.
2 medium Jalapenos Infuses heat and flavor; remove seeds for milder dish.
1 tablespoon Smoked Paprika Essential for that smoky flavor; regular paprika with liquid smoke can be used.
1 teaspoon Onion Powder Essential for added flavor.
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Essential for added flavor.
1 teaspoon Salt Essential for added flavor.
1 teaspoon Black Pepper Essential for added flavor.

For the Topping

4 strips Bacon Optional; drape bacon over the meatloaf for extra flavor.

Equipment

Oven
Baking Dish
mixing bowl
knife
cutting board

Method

Preparation Steps

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the jalapenos by chopping them finely while wearing gloves.
Soften the cream cheese and shred the cheddar cheese.
Combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, jalapenos, both cheeses, and spices in a large bowl. Mix gently by hand until just combined.
Shape the mixture into a loaf in a greased baking dish (about 9x5 inches).
Bake the meatloaf for 45 minutes, checking for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 26gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For added smoky flavor, consider draping bacon over the meatloaf before baking. Adjust cooking time accordingly for crispy results.

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