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Jalapeño Cheddar Meatloaf

Rhonda Anderson
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Dinner Ideas
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Meatloaf:
  • 2 lbs ground beef (80–85% lean)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 medium onion (finely diced)
  • 3 fresh jalapeños (2 diced, 1 sliced for garnish)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded, divided)
  • 2 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
  • For the Topping:
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven : to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
  • Make topping : In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar. Set aside.
  • Prepare meat mixture : In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, diced onion, diced jalapeños, 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar, garlic, Worcestershire, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix gently until just combined.
  • Shape loaf : Transfer mixture into the prepared loaf pan or form a free-form loaf on a baking sheet lined with foil.
  • Add topping : Spread ketchup mixture evenly over the top.
  • Bake : Place in oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  • Cheesy finish : Remove from oven, sprinkle with remaining cheddar and sliced jalapeños, then return to oven for 5–7 minutes until cheese melts.
  • Rest u0026 slice : Let loaf rest 10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.