Description

This Zesty Spicy Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf is a bold twist on a classic comfort food. Combining the heat from diced jalapeños with creamy cheese and smoky bacon, it delivers a rich, flavorful experience. Perfectly baked to juicy perfection, this meatloaf is topped with a cheesy crust and garnished with fresh cilantro for a bright finish, ideal for those who love a spicy kick in their meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatloaf Base

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 and Garnish

1 cup Cheese Topping (Grated, for an indulgent crust)
1 tbsp Chopped Cilantro (For fresh flavor post-baking)

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Instructions

Preparation Steps: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the meatloaf evenly.
Combine Ingredients: Gather all ingredients into a large mixing bowl. Mix the ground beef, diced jalapeños, creamy cheese, crumbled bacon, smoky paprika, eggs, and seasonings thoroughly until all components are well incorporated, ensuring even flavor throughout.
Shape the Meatloaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a greased baking dish to prevent sticking and aid in even cooking.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 to 60 minutes. Bake until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) indicating it is fully cooked through and safe to eat.
Add Cheese Topping: About 10 minutes before the end of baking, sprinkle the grated cheese topping over the meatloaf to create a melted, indulgent crust.
Rest: Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes, allowing juices to redistribute which results in better texture and easy slicing.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro for fresh, bright flavor and serve warm as a hearty, spicy comfort meal.

Notes

Adjust the number of jalapeños to control the heat level according to your spice preference.
For a leaner option, substitute regular bacon with turkey bacon or omit entirely.
Letting the meatloaf rest after baking ensures juiciness and prevents it from drying out.
Use a meat thermometer to guarantee the meatloaf reaches a safe internal temperature of 160°F.
Feel free to swap creamy cheese varieties such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.