Description
This Smoky Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf combines ground beef and pork with a creamy jalapeño cheese filling, all topped with barbecue sauce. It’s a flavorful and comforting twist on a classic dish, perfect for impressing family and friends!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork.
- Add the breadcrumbs and mix well.
- Pour in the milk and mix until combined.
- Crack the egg into the bowl and mix again.
- Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, diced jalapeños, and chopped cilantro (if using). Mix until well combined.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
- Take half of the meat mixture and press it into the bottom of the prepared baking sheet or loaf pan.
- Spread the jalapeño filling over the meat layer, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Place the remaining meat mixture on top of the jalapeño filling and gently press it down to seal.
- Brush the top with barbecue sauce.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Brush on more barbecue sauce about 10 minutes before it’s done for an extra glaze.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
- Slice the meatloaf into thick pieces and serve warm, garnished with additional cilantro or jalapeños if desired. Enjoy with mashed potatoes, salad, or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- Customize the filling with ingredients like crumbled bacon or different cheeses.
- For a spicier kick, use fresh jalapeños or add diced serrano peppers.
- Experiment with different barbecue sauces for varied flavor profiles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes