Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf – A Spicy, Cheesy Twist on a Comfort Classic
A spicy twist on a comfort food classic, this Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf features creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and a kick of heat in every bite.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Ingredients
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1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20) or ground turkey
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2 eggs
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¾ cup breadcrumbs (or substitute)
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ cup cooked bacon, chopped
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1 cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese
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3 jalapeños, seeded and diced
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a bowl, mix cream cheese, shredded cheese, and diced jalapeños. Set aside.
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In another bowl, combine ground meat, eggs, breadcrumbs, seasonings, and bacon.
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Shape half the meat mixture into a base on a baking sheet or loaf pan.
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Spoon the jalapeño filling in the center, then top with remaining meat and seal edges.
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Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, until internal temp reaches 160°F.
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Rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Top with extra cheese or bacon in the last 10 minutes of baking. For lower spice, use mild green chiles. To freeze, wrap tightly and store up to 3 months.