Smoky Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf (Print Version)

Crumbled beef, spicy jalapeños, rich cheese, and salty bacon team up for a super bold dinner you won't want to miss.

# Ingredients:

→ Meatloaf Base

01 - 2 pounds of ground beef, lean
02 - A big egg, already beaten
03 - One small onion, chopped up really fine
04 - Bread crumbs, 1 cup
05 - One to two jalapeños, seeds out, diced up small
06 - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
07 - Some smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon
08 - Black pepper to your liking
09 - Salt, just enough

→ Filling and Topping

10 - Shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup
11 - Four ounces of cream cheese, let it soften
12 - Four slices of beef bacon, cooked crisp then crumbled
13 - A half cup of ranch dressing, for drizzling on top

# Instructions:

01 - Mix up that ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, onion, diced jalapeños, smoked paprika, Worcestershire, salt, and black pepper in a big bowl. Make sure everything mingles well.
02 - Gently stir in the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and crispy beef bacon. You want it all spread out nicely.
03 - Now, form everything into a loaf shape. Drop it into a greased loaf pan or pop it onto a baking sheet lined with foil.
04 - Slide it in your oven, set to 350°F, for 45 to 50 minutes. It’s done when it hits 160°F inside.
05 - Take it out and let it chill for five to ten minutes. Slices will hold together better if you wait.
06 - Warm up that ranch a bit and pour it right onto the meatloaf slices just before you dig in.

# Notes:

01 - Taking out jalapeño seeds will dial back the spiciness but keeps that fresh kick.