Smoky Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf

Spice up classic meatloaf with the creamy, smoky, and spicy flavors of jalapeño poppers! Stuffed with cheese, wrapped in bacon, and packed with heat, this is comfort food with a fiery twist.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs (900g) ground beef (or mix beef + pork)

• 1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs (or crushed pork rinds for low-carb)

• 1 egg, beaten

• ½ cup (120ml) milk (or beef broth)

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Jalapeño Popper Filling:

• 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese

• 2-3 jalapeños, seeded and finely diced (keep seeds for extra heat!)

• 4 slices bacon, cooked & crumbled (reserve grease for meatloaf!)

For the Topping:

• 6-8 slices bacon (to wrap the loaf)

• ¼ cup (60ml) BBQ sauce or sriracha mayo (optional glaze)

Instructions

1. Prep & Preheat

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil.

2. Make the Filling

• Mix cream cheese, cheddar, jalapeños, and crumbled bacon in a bowl. Set aside.

3. Make the Meatloaf

1. In a large bowl, combine beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic, spices, and 1 tbsp reserved bacon grease.

2. Divide mixture in half. Press one half into a loaf shape on the baking sheet.

3. Spread jalapeño filling down the center, leaving a 1-inch border.

4. Top with remaining meat mixture, sealing edges.

4. Add Bacon & Bake

1. Wrap the loaf with bacon slices, tucking ends underneath.

2. Brush with BBQ sauce (if using).

3. Bake 50-60 mins until internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).

4. Broil 2-3 mins to crisp bacon.

5. Rest & Serve

• Let rest 10 mins before slicing. Garnish with extra jalapeños!

Why You’ll Love It

✅ Bacon-wrapped goodness with a spicy, cheesy surprise inside.
✅ Smoky depth from paprika and bacon.
✅ Keto-friendly if using pork rinds and skipping BBQ glaze.

Tips & Variations

• Less heat: Use pickled jalapeños or omit seeds.

• Extra smoky: Add 1 tbsp chipotle peppers in adobo.

• Air fryer option: Shape into mini loaves and cook at 370°F (190°C) for 20-25 mins.

Slice into this spicy, cheesy masterpiece—your taste buds will thank you!