Description
This Smoky Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf combines tender ground beef with spicy jalapeños, creamy cheeses, and a smoky blend of spices, all topped with tangy BBQ sauce and a creamy ranch drizzle. Perfectly baked to juicy perfection, this flavorful meatloaf is a comforting meal with a kick, excellent for family dinners and easy to pair with a variety of sides.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 egg
- ½ cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 jalapeños, diced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Topping and Garnish
- ¼ cup BBQ sauce
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 jalapeño slices for garnish (optional)
Creamy Ranch Drizzle
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 2 tbsp sour cream
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra smoky flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
- Prepare Pan: Lightly grease a loaf pan or baking sheet to prevent sticking during baking.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, finely diced onion, diced jalapeños, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently until just combined to avoid a dense meatloaf.
- Shape Meatloaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the prepared pan or on the baking sheet.
- Add Toppings: Spread BBQ sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf, then sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese. Add jalapeño slices on top for garnish, if desired.
- Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), indicating it is fully cooked.
- Rest: Remove from oven and let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, making slicing easier and preventing dryness.
- Prepare Ranch Drizzle: In a small bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, sour cream, and smoked paprika (if using). Stir until smooth to create the creamy ranch drizzle.
- Serve: Slice the meatloaf and drizzle the creamy ranch sauce over each slice before serving. Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp side salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- For less heat, remove the seeds from the jalapeños before dicing.
- Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender and moist.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
- The creamy ranch drizzle adds a cool, tangy contrast to the smoky, spicy meatloaf.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
