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Smoky Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf with Creamy Ranch Drizzle

A bold, cheesy meatloaf packed with smoky jalapeños, bacon, and cream cheese, topped with a cooling ranch drizzle. Comfort food with a kick!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dinner, Holiday, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds lean ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg beaten
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 1 –2 jalapeños finely diced (remove seeds for less heat)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 4 strips bacon cooked crisp and crumbled
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing for drizzle

Method
 

Mix the Meatloaf Base
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, onion, jalapeños, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—overworking the meat can make the loaf dense.
Add the Jalapeño Popper Fillings
  1. Gently fold in the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and crumbled bacon. These will create little bursts of flavor and texture throughout the loaf.
Shape and Bake
  1. Form the mixture into a loaf and place it into a greased loaf pan or shape it by hand on a foil-lined baking sheet. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45–50 minutes, or until the center reaches 160°F on a meat thermometer.
Rest for Perfect Slices
  1. Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This step helps retain juices and ensures clean slices.
Finish with Creamy Ranch Drizzle
  1. Warm the ranch dressing slightly in a small saucepan or microwave. Drizzle over each slice before serving for a cooling, creamy contrast to the smoky spice.