Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Smoky Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf with Creamy Ranch Drizzle


  • Author: Marie Lavigne
  • Total Time: 65 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6–8 1x

Description

Smoky Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf is a bold twist on a classic comfort food, combining the smoky heat of jalapeños, creamy indulgence of cheddar and cream cheese, and the savory crunch of bacon. Topped with a velvety ranch drizzle, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. It’s the ultimate blend of tradition and innovation, making every bite a flavorful journey.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds lean ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 12 jalapeños, finely diced (remove seeds for less heat)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 4 strips bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup ranch dressing (for drizzle)

Instructions

1️⃣ Mix It Up: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, jalapeños, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Gently fold in the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon.

2️⃣ Form & Bake: Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan or on a foil-lined baking sheet. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45–50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes.

3️⃣ Ranch Drizzle: Warm up the ranch dressing slightly for easier pouring. Drizzle over individual slices of meatloaf just before serving.

Notes

  • 🌶️ Remove jalapeño seeds for a milder flavor or leave them in for extra heat.
  • 🧀 Substitute cheddar with pepper jack or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
  • 🍞 Use fresh breadcrumbs for the best texture, or panko as a substitute.
  • 🍽️ For a surprise, try adding a mozzarella center to the meatloaf.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Per Serving
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 740mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Smoky Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf, jalapeño meatloaf recipe, cheesy meatloaf, bacon meatloaf recipe, comfort food with a twist