Hey y’all! If you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine, this Smoky Jalapeno Popper Meatloaf with Creamy Ranch Drizzle is just the ticket. It’s bursting with bold flavors, featuring the perfect blend of smoky, spicy jalapenos and creamy ranch sauce. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a game-day favorite, this dish will surely impress. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have.
- Combines the smoky spice of jalapenos with a creamy, tangy drizzle.
- Perfect for meal prep or a hearty family dinner.
- Customizable to suit your taste preferences.
- Cooks in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped jalapenos
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
Directions
Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, chopped jalapenos, beaten egg, milk, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Shape and Bake the Meatloaf
Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Make the Creamy Ranch Drizzle
While the meatloaf bakes, pour the ranch dressing into a small saucepan and heat over low heat until warmed through. Drizzle the warm ranch dressing over the baked meatloaf before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, leave the seeds in the jalapenos. Learn more about jalapeno heat.
- You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.
- Adjust the cheese quantity to your liking for a more cheesy flavor. Discover more about cheddar cheese.
Variations
- Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version.
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese to enhance the spicy profile.
- Add diced bell peppers for a sweeter, colorful twist.
Required Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Loaf pan or baking sheet
- Small saucepan
Storage Instructions
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Suggested Pairings
Pair this meatloaf with mashed potatoes, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Pro Tips
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to ensure it holds together when sliced.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness. Check safe cooking temperatures.
- Mix the meat gently to prevent a dense loaf.
FAQ
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
What can I use instead of ranch dressing?
You can substitute with blue cheese dressing or a simple garlic aioli for a different flavor.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 160°F (71°C).