Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Meatloaf Recipe

Introduction

This Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on a classic comfort food. Packed with creamy cheese and spicy jalapenos, it delivers a delicious surprise in every slice. Perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 2/3 cup diced onion
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup dry breadcrumbs
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 8 ounces cream cheese, cut into long, thin pieces
• 2 to 3 jalapenos, seeded and diced
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 5 slices bacon, cut in half

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with foil.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onion, eggs, breadcrumbs, milk, seasoned salt, black pepper, and dried basil. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
3. Step 3: Shape half of the meat mixture into a 9×5-inch rectangle on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Step 4: Arrange the cream cheese pieces and diced jalapenos down the center of the meat rectangle.
5. Step 5: Cover the cream cheese and jalapenos with the remaining meat mixture, pressing the edges together to seal the filling completely inside.
6. Step 6: Brush the top and sides of the meatloaf generously with ketchup.
7. Step 7: Lay the bacon slices side by side over the top of the meatloaf.
8. Step 8: Bake for 60 to 70 minutes until the meat is cooked through and bacon is crispy.
9. Step 9: Let the meatloaf cool for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing to ensure clean, neat pieces.

Tips & Variations

• For a milder flavor, reduce jalapenos or use mini sweet peppers instead.
• You can substitute cream cheese with a mix of shredded cheddar and mozzarella for a different cheesy texture.
• Use turkey or chicken ground meat for a leaner version.
• Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture boosts umami flavor.
• Cover the meatloaf with foil halfway through baking to prevent bacon from burning, then uncover for the last 15 minutes to crisp.

Storage

Store leftover meatloaf tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat slices gently in the microwave or covered in an oven set to 350°F until warmed through. You can also freeze cooked meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the meatloaf up to the point before baking and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.

How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) to ensure it is safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer inserted in the center for best accuracy.

Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Meatloaf Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 116 reviews

This Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on traditional meatloaf, featuring a creamy cream cheese and spicy jalapeno filling wrapped in savory ground beef and topped with crispy bacon. Perfect for those who love a bit of heat and a cheesy surprise in every slice.

• Author: Elias
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 65 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meatloaf Mixture

• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 2/3 cup diced onion
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup dry breadcrumbs
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil

Filling

• 8 ounces cream cheese, cut into long, thin pieces
• 2 to 3 jalapenos, seeded and diced

Topping

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 5 slices bacon, cut in half

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with foil to make cleanup easier.
2. Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the lean ground beef, diced onion, lightly beaten eggs, dry breadcrumbs, milk, seasoned salt, black pepper, and dried basil. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Shape Meatloaf Base: Shape half of the meat mixture into a 9×5 inch rectangle on the prepared baking sheet, forming the base of the meatloaf.
4. Add Filling: Arrange the cream cheese pieces and diced, seeded jalapenos down the center of the meatloaf base, creating the stuffed core.
5. Cover Filling: Cover the cream cheese and jalapenos with the remaining meat mixture, carefully pressing along the edges to completely seal the filling inside.
6. Apply Toppings: Brush the top and sides of the meatloaf with ketchup for moisture and flavor. Then, place the bacon slices side by side across the top of the meatloaf.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 60 to 70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit and the bacon is crispy.
8. Rest and Serve: Allow the meatloaf to cool for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing to help retain juices and maintain structure.

Notes

• For less heat, remove all jalapeno seeds and membranes.
• You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Use smoked paprika or smoked salt for an extra smoky flavor.
• Make sure to fully seal the edges to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
• Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid undercooking.

Keywords: meatloaf, jalapeno popper, stuffed meatloaf, cream cheese, bacon, spicy meatloaf, comfort food