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jalapeno popper meatloaf

jalapeno popper meatloaf

This jalapeño popper meatloaf combines the creamy, spicy goodness of jalapeño poppers with classic meatloaf, resulting in a flavorful and comforting dish that is perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 485

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 4 medium fresh jalapeños, diced
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • ¾ cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, half the bacon, and half the jalapeños. Mix thoroughly and set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, remaining jalapeños, remaining bacon, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Divide the meat mixture in half. Shape half into a flat rectangle on the prepared baking sheet, creating a slight well in the center.
  5. Spread the cream cheese filling down the center of the rectangle, leaving a border around the edges.
  6. Flatten the remaining meat mixture and place it over the filling. Seal the edges completely by pinching the top and bottom layers together.
  7. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top. Bake for 55-65 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Use fresh jalapeños for better flavor. Adjust spice level by removing seeds or using fewer jalapeños. Leftovers taste better the next day.