Cheesy Jalapeño Meatloaf is a bold and flavorful twist on the classic comfort food. Loaded with cheddar cheese and fresh jalapeño slices, this meatloaf brings a delicious balance of heat and richness, with a tender, juicy interior. It’s perfect for a hearty family dinner and makes excellent leftovers for sandwiches or next-day meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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A spicy, cheesy upgrade to traditional meatloaf
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Easy to make with everyday ingredients
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Great for make-ahead meals or leftovers
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Family-friendly with adjustable heat levels
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Bakes in under an hour
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Moist and tender texture with a crisp cheesy topping
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Perfect for serving with mashed potatoes or vegetables
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Customizable with different cheeses or add-ins
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Great way to use up fresh jalapeños
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Satisfying, protein-packed comfort food
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 lbs (900g) ground beef
1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs
1/2 cup (120ml) milk
1 egg
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese
1–2 fresh jalapeños, sliced
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a loaf pan.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, bell pepper, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated, but avoid overmixing.
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Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared loaf pan.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
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Carefully remove from the oven and top the meatloaf with shredded cheddar cheese and sliced jalapeños.
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Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
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Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50–55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5–10 minutes
Variations
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Use ground turkey or a mix of beef and pork for different flavor profiles
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Swap cheddar with pepper jack for extra spice or mozzarella for a milder option
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Mix some of the cheese into the meat mixture for added richness
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Add diced jalapeños into the loaf for even more heat throughout
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Top with a spicy ketchup or barbecue glaze for a sweet and spicy finish
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat slices in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or in a 325°F oven until warmed through. To retain moisture, cover with foil during oven reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and refrigerate it in the pan up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze Cheesy Jalapeño Meatloaf?
Absolutely. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
How spicy is this recipe?
The spiciness depends on the number and heat level of the jalapeños used. Remove seeds for less heat or use more for extra spice.
Can I use pickled jalapeños instead of fresh?
Yes, pickled jalapeños work well and add a tangy flavor, though they are generally milder.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
You can use crushed crackers, oats, or panko as a substitute.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp white cheddar are excellent alternatives.
Should I cover the meatloaf while baking?
No, bake it uncovered to allow a crust to form. If it browns too quickly, you can tent it with foil.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
Use a meat thermometer—internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
What side dishes go well with this meatloaf?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, or a fresh salad pair well.
Can I make this in a muffin tin for mini meatloaves?
Yes, divide the mixture into muffin cups and reduce baking time to 25–30 minutes.
Conclusion
Cheesy Jalapeño Meatloaf is a flavorful, spicy take on a classic comfort dish that will become a favorite in your household. With its melty cheddar topping, savory beef interior, and just the right kick from jalapeños, it’s the perfect meal for anyone who loves hearty food with a bold twist. Serve it for dinner, enjoy the leftovers, and make it your own with the suggested variations.
Print
Cheesy Jalapeño Meatloaf
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
Description
This Cheesy Jalapeño Meatloaf is a flavorful, spicy spin on the traditional meatloaf! Loaded with melty cheddar cheese, fresh jalapeños, and bold spices, it’s baked to perfection for a cheesy, hearty dinner that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
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2 lbs (900g) ground beef
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1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs
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1/2 cup (120ml) milk
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1 egg
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1 green bell pepper, diced
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp paprika
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese
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1-2 fresh jalapeños, sliced
Instructions
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Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a standard loaf pan. -
Mix the Meatloaf Base:
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, bell pepper, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until evenly combined. -
Form the Loaf:
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it into the prepared loaf pan. -
Initial Bake:
Bake uncovered for 40 minutes. -
Add Cheese and Jalapeños:
Remove from oven and top the meatloaf with shredded cheddar cheese and jalapeño slices. -
Finish Baking:
Return to oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. -
Rest and Serve:
Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
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For extra spice, mix chopped jalapeños directly into the meat mixture.
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Swap cheddar with pepper jack for more heat and flavor.
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Pairs great with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted veggies.
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