Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this meatloaf for its perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and creamy flavors. The jalapeños add a kick without overpowering the dish, and the cream cheese provides a rich, smooth contrast to the savory beef and bacon. The smoky undertones from the bacon and spices make each bite a flavorful experience. Plus, this recipe is easy to make and can be prepped ahead of time, making it a great option for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests.

Smoky Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1/2 lb ground pork
4 strips of bacon, cooked and chopped
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 fresh jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
1 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp black pepper
Salt to taste
1/2 cup barbecue sauce (for topping)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, chopped bacon, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, jalapeños, onion, and garlic. Mix until well combined.
Add the breadcrumbs, egg, smoked paprika, cumin, black pepper, and salt. Mix again until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet or loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
Spread a thin layer of barbecue sauce over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and is cooked through.
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45-55 minutes
Resting time: 10 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef and pork for plant-based alternatives, like lentils or meatless crumbles. You can also use vegetarian bacon and vegan cream cheese to keep it plant-based.
Spicy Kick: For more heat, leave the seeds in the jalapeños or add extra hot sauce to the meat mixture or the top.
Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or mozzarella for a unique twist.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes to make this recipe gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture the day before and store it in the fridge. Just bake it the next day when you’re ready to cook.

2. Can I freeze this meatloaf?

Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake it from frozen (it will take a bit longer to cook through).

3. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef and pork?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that turkey can be drier than beef and pork, so you might want to add a bit more cream cheese or a splash of broth to maintain moisture.

4. What’s the best way to check if the meatloaf is done?

The best way to ensure your meatloaf is fully cooked is by using a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F (71°C) when inserted into the center of the meatloaf.

5. Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or Gouda, depending on your flavor preference.

6. How do I prevent the meatloaf from being too dry?

Adding cream cheese helps to keep the meatloaf moist, but if you find it’s still a bit dry, consider adding a bit of milk or broth to the mixture to maintain the moisture.

7. Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild to moderate level of heat, depending on how much jalapeño you use. You can adjust the spiciness by removing the seeds or adding extra jalapeños for a stronger kick.

8. Can I make this recipe without bacon?

Yes, you can leave out the bacon if you prefer, or use a bacon alternative like turkey bacon or even a smoky flavor enhancer like smoked paprika to maintain the depth of flavor.

9. What side dishes pair well with this meatloaf?

This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. For a more indulgent side, try mac and cheese or cornbread.

10. How do I make the meatloaf crust crispy?

If you prefer a crispy crust on your meatloaf, brush the top with a little extra barbecue sauce during the last 10 minutes of baking. You can also broil it for 2-3 minutes at the end to get a crisp, caramelized top.

Conclusion

This smoky jalapeño popper meatloaf is the perfect combination of rich, creamy, and spicy flavors, making it a standout dish for any meal. It’s easy to prepare, versatile with ingredient swaps, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or serving it at a gathering, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds.