Introduction

This Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf is a spicy twist on a classic comfort food. Combining creamy cheeses, fresh jalapeños, and savory ground meat, it’s sure to impress your family and friends with its bold flavors and satisfying texture.

A rectangular meatloaf sits on a wooden board, topped with a layer of melted cheese and evenly spaced slices of green jalapeño peppers across the surface. Bits of red sauce or ketchup are spread on top, adding a contrasting color. The inside of the meatloaf is a mix of ground meat and herbs, with a slightly crumbly texture visible where it’s been sliced. The background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1.5 pounds ground beef (or your preferred ground meat; can substitute with lean turkey or chicken)
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
0.5 cup cream cheese, softened
2-3 fresh jalapeños, diced (adjust to taste)
0.5 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon mustard
Salt and pepper, to taste
0.5 cup ketchup (for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, diced jalapeños, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a spatula until well incorporated.
Step 3: Transfer the mixture into a meatloaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 4: Spread the ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf for added flavor and moisture.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
Step 6: Once cooked, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For a milder flavor, remove the seeds from the jalapeños before dicing.
Try mixing in cooked bacon or chopped green onions for extra flavor.
Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for a lighter texture.
Replace ketchup topping with barbecue sauce for a smoky twist.

Storage

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm slices gently in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can also freeze cooked meatloaf for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

The image shows a rectangular meatloaf on a wooden board, sliced to reveal a moist, dense brown inside mixed with bits of vegetables and spices. On top, there's a layer of smooth, reddish-brown sauce spread evenly, with thin, vibrant green jalapeño slices placed in a single row along the length. The meatloaf contrasts against the warm, soft lighting, with a white marbled surface in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, lean ground turkey or chicken works great as a substitute and will still produce a moist and flavorful meatloaf.

How can I tell when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption.

Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 86 reviews

A flavorful Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf that combines juicy ground beef with spicy jalapeños, creamy cheeses, and a tangy ketchup topping. This hearty dish offers a unique twist on classic meatloaf by incorporating the beloved flavors of jalapeño poppers into a comforting and easy-to-make meal perfect for lunch or dinner.

Author: Lena
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Total Time: 60-65 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Lunch
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Meatloaf Mixture

1.5 pounds ground beef (or your preferred ground meat; can substitute with lean turkey or chicken)
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
0.5 cup cream cheese, softened
2–3 pieces fresh jalapeños, diced (adjust to taste)
0.5 pieces onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 piece egg
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Topping

0.5 cup ketchup

Instructions

Preparation: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature by the time your meatloaf is ready to bake.
Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, diced jalapeños, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and pepper. Thoroughly mix using your hands or a spatula until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Shape Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture into a meatloaf pan or form it into a loaf shape on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to facilitate even cooking and easy cleanup.
Add Topping: Spread the ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This adds moisture and a tangy, sweet flavor to complement the spicy and cheesy filling.
Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C), ensuring the meat is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Slice the meatloaf and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

Adjust the quantity of jalapeños based on your preferred spice level.
Using lean ground meats like turkey or chicken can make the dish lighter.
Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps keep it moist.
Breadcrumbs help bind the meatloaf and add texture; panko can be used for a lighter texture.
If you prefer a smokier flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or chipotle powder.

Keywords: Jalapeño popper meatloaf, spicy meatloaf, cheesy meatloaf, baked meatloaf recipe, ground beef meatloaf, jalapeño recipes, comfort food