Jalapeno Popper-Stuffed Meatloaf Recipe

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• cup bread crumbs
• 2 eggs, whisked
• 2 teaspoons salt, divided
• 1 teaspoons ground black pepper, divided
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup grated Cheddar cheese (Optional)
• 3 jalapeno peppers, seeded and diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Aluminum foil
• 3 tablespoons barbeque sauce, or as needed
• 2 tablespoons grated Cheddar cheese, or to taste (Optional)

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350F (175C).

Step 2: In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, bread crumbs, whisked eggs, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon black pepper until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Press about of the meat mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a loaf pan, leaving a well in the center.

Step 4: In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 1 cup of grated Cheddar cheese, diced jalapeno peppers, garlic powder, remaining 1 teaspoon salt, and remaining teaspoon black pepper. Mix until smooth.

Step 5: Press the cream cheese mixture into the well of the meatloaf, filling it evenly.

Step 6: Cover the cream cheese layer with the remaining meat mixture, pressing the edges together to seal the loaf.

Step 7: Cover the loaf pan with aluminum foil.

Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the meat is no longer pink in the center. Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached at least 160F (70C).

Step 9: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush with barbeque sauce. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of grated Cheddar cheese, or to taste.

Step 10: Set an oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source and preheat the broiler.

Step 11: Place the meatloaf under the broiler and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the barbeque sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 678
• Fat: 50g (64% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 27g (133% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 246mg (82% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 1871mg (81% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 21g (8% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (5% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 36g (72% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 5mg (6% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 338mg (26% Daily Value)
• Iron: 4mg (24% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 401mg (9% Daily Value)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

History and Origin

The Jalapeno Popper-Stuffed Meatloaf is a bold, modern twist on the classic meatloaf, fusing two beloved dishes: the spicy, cheesy jalapeno popper and the comforting meatloaf. While the exact origin of this dish is not well-documented, it likely emerged in the United States, where the popularity of jalapenos as a key ingredient in Tex-Mex and Southwestern cuisine has soared. The concept of stuffing meatloaf with rich, creamy ingredients is also not new, but the addition of jalapenos and cheese gives this variation a fiery kick that sets it apart from traditional recipes. As a fusion dish, it blends the American love for comfort food with the heat of Mexican-inspired flavors.

Regional Variations

The flavors of this stuffed meatloaf reflect the bold, spicy profiles found in Southwestern American cuisine. Jalapenos, a staple ingredient in many Tex-Mex dishes, are the key to bringing heat and flavor to the dish. While the recipe in its current form is a fun take on the traditional meatloaf, similar variations can be found throughout the southern United States and parts of Mexico, where stuffed meatloafs and spicy cheese dishes are commonplace. The use of cream cheese and cheddar in the filling is especially popular in North American recipes, giving the meatloaf a smooth and savory core that contrasts with the spicy peppers.

What Sets It Apart

The main feature that distinguishes the Jalapeno Popper-Stuffed Meatloaf from traditional meatloaf recipes is its stuffing. While classic meatloaf is typically made of ground meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, this version introduces a jalapeno popper-inspired filling. The cream cheese and cheddar cheese mixture combined with diced jalapenos not only adds a creamy texture but also a spicy kick that surprises the palate with each bite. The combination of savory meat, rich cheese, and fiery jalapenos offers a refreshing variation from the standard meatloaf flavor, which tends to be milder and more uniform. This is a dish for those who enjoy a spicy twist on familiar flavors.

Where Is It Usually Served?

This dish is often served in casual dining settings, particularly in American homes and restaurants that focus on hearty, comfort foods. It's a great dish for family gatherings, potlucks, or casual dinner parties, especially when you want to impress guests with a fun and flavorful twist on a classic. Some variations of stuffed meatloaf, including this jalapeno popper version, are also popular at barbecues and tailgate parties, where the smoky flavors of grilled meat pair wonderfully with the heat of the jalapenos. It can be paired with a variety of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a simple salad to balance out the richness of the meatloaf.

Fun Facts

• Jalapenos are named after the Mexican city of Jalapa, where they are grown, and are one of the most commonly used chili peppers in North American cuisine.
• Jalapeno poppers, the dish that inspired this meatloaf, typically consist of jalapenos stuffed with cheese and sometimes wrapped in bacon before being fried or baked.
• Meatloaf dates back to the 5th century, with variations appearing in Europe and later becoming a popular American dish in the 19th century. Over time, it evolved into many regional variations, including stuffed versions like this one.
• For those who like it extra spicy, it's common to add additional jalapenos or hot sauces to the meat mixture, elevating the heat level of the dish even further.

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