Description
This Smoky Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf with Creamy Ranch Drizzle is a flavorful twist on classic meatloaf, combining spicy jalapeños, smoky paprika, rich cream cheese, and crispy bacon. Perfectly baked to juicy perfection, it’s topped with a cool, creamy ranch drizzle that balances the heat for a deliciously comforting meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 jalapeños, finely diced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cheese and Bacon Mixture
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 strips bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
For Serving
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (for drizzle)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the lean ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, finely chopped onion, diced jalapeños, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix these ingredients thoroughly to ensure even seasoning and spice distribution.
- Add Cheese and Bacon: Fold the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled crispy bacon into the meat mixture until everything is evenly incorporated, adding creamy texture and smoky flavor.
- Shape and Bake: Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it either in a greased loaf pan or on a foil-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup. This shaping ensures even cooking and classic meatloaf presentation.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the meatloaf for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, ensuring the meat is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Rest and Slice: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting helps the juices redistribute, making each slice moist and tender.
- Ranch Drizzle: Slightly warm the ranch dressing and drizzle it over the sliced meatloaf just before serving to add a creamy, cool contrast to the smoky and spicy flavors.
Notes
- For less heat, remove the seeds from the jalapeños before dicing.
- You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Make sure the internal temperature reaches 160°F to ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked.
- Resting the meatloaf before slicing prevents it from drying out.
- Use regular or low-fat ranch dressing depending on your dietary preference.
