Smoky Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf with Creamy Ranch Drizzle – Spicy, Cheesy, and Packed with Flavor!
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
– 1 ½ lbs ground beef
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
– 1 egg
– ½ cup milk
– 1 small onion (finely diced)
– 2 jalapeños (diced, seeds removed for less heat)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
– ½ tsp smoked paprika
– ½ tsp garlic powder
– Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Topping:
– ¼ cup BBQ sauce
– ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 jalapeño slices for garnish (optional)
For the Creamy Ranch Drizzle:
– ½ cup ranch dressing
– 2 tbsp sour cream
– 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
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Directions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)** and lightly grease a loaf pan or baking sheet.
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Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
2️⃣ In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, diced onion, jalapeños, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined (don’t overmix to avoid a dense meatloaf).
3️⃣ Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan or on the baking sheet.
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Step 3: Add the Topping
4️⃣ Spread BBQ sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and add jalapeño slices as garnish if desired.
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Step 4: Bake the Meatloaf
5️⃣ Bake in the preheated oven for **50-60 minutes**, or until the internal temperature reaches **160°F (71°C)**. Let it rest for **5-10 minutes** before slicing.
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Step 5: Make the Creamy Ranch Drizzle
6️⃣ In a small bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, sour cream, and smoked paprika until smooth.
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Step 6: Serve and Garnish
7️⃣ Drizzle the creamy ranch sauce over slices of meatloaf before serving. Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp side salad.
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Storage and Reheating:
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for **up to 3 days**.
– Reheat in the oven at **350°F (175°C)** for **10-15 minutes** or in the microwave until warmed through.
⏱ **Prep Time:** 15 minutes | **Cook Time:** 60 minutes | **Total Time:** 1 hour 15 minutes
🍴 **Servings:** 6 | 🔥 **Calories:** 400 kcal (per serving)
