Description
This Smoky Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on classic meatloaf, packed with diced jalapeños, creamy cheeses, and smoked paprika for a smoky, spicy kick. Baked to perfection and topped with a cool, creamy ranch drizzle infused with lime juice, this hearty dish makes for a comforting and crowd-pleasing meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup diced jalapeños (seeded for less heat)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Creamy Ranch Drizzle
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tbsp sour cream
- 1 tsp lime juice
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, diced jalapeños, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, diced onions, minced garlic, eggs, milk, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently and thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, being careful not to overmix to keep meatloaf tender.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Use your hands or a spatula to shape it into a compact loaf form.
- Bake the Meatloaf: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Bake until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure safety and juiciness.
- Prepare Ranch Drizzle: While the meatloaf bakes, in a small bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, sour cream, and lime juice until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
- Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Then, drizzle the creamy ranch sauce over the slices or serve on the side for dipping.
Notes
- For less heat, remove seeds from jalapeños before dicing.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F for safe consumption.
- Allowing the meatloaf to rest helps retain moisture and makes slicing easier.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- The ranch drizzle can be adjusted to taste by adding more lime juice for extra tang.
