Jalapeño Meatloaf with Cheese

Name: Jalapeño Meatloaf with Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup diced onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 egg; 1/4 cup milk; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup ketchup; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Highlighted under: Hearty Food Recipes

I love whipping up comfort food that’s packed with flavor, and this Jalapeño Meatloaf with Cheese is one of my favorites. The first bite delivers a delightful kick from the jalapeños, paired with rich, gooey cheese that melts beautifully throughout the meatloaf. It’s a lively twist on a traditional dish, perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. I find that the combination of ingredients holds together beautifully, ensuring that every slice is as delicious as the last. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare!

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-25T17:17:27.560Z

While experimenting with different meatloaf recipes, I stumbled upon the idea of adding jalapeños for an exciting flavor boost. I decided to give it a try, and the results blew me away. The balance of spice and savory notes made for a meatloaf that’s anything but ordinary.

Another detail that elevated this dish was using a blend of cheeses. I opted for a mix of sharp cheddar and creamy Monterey Jack, which not only adds depth to the flavor but also ensures each slice is irresistibly cheesy. This is definitely a recipe that now holds a regular spot on our family menu!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A zesty kick from fresh jalapeños that you can adjust for your spice tolerance.
Rich, melted cheese throughout that creates a comforting and indulgent texture.
An easy-to-follow recipe that brings gourmet flavors to your kitchen with minimal effort.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

When making Jalapeño Meatloaf, the quality of your ground beef is vital. I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for an ideal balance of fat and flavor; the fat will keep the meatloaf moist while adding richness. If you prefer a leaner version, consider ground turkey or chicken, but be sure to add a bit more cheese or a splash of olive oil to compensate for the lower fat content.

The jalapeños are the star of this dish, and their heat can vary significantly from pepper to pepper. For a milder meatloaf, consider removing the seeds and membranes where most of the heat resides. If you’re a spice aficionado, use fresh jalapeños, as their vibrant flavor will enhance the overall dish, and don’t hesitate to experiment with other types of peppers like serranos for additional heat.

Technique for Perfect Texture

Achieving the perfect texture in meatloaf is all about the mixing technique. When combining the ingredients, mix gently but thoroughly—over-mixing can lead to a dense texture. Using your hands is often the best way to ensure an even distribution of ingredients, especially when incorporating the jalapeños and cheese. You want to avoid a compact loaf that feels heavy; it should be somewhat lightly packed to allow for tender slices.

Forming the loaf correctly is also crucial. Be sure to shape it into a uniform loaf in your baking dish, which promotes even cooking. A thinner shape may cook faster, while a thicker one may take longer than the 60 minutes suggested; always use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 160°F (70°C) for safety.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

1 lb ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg
1/4 cup milk
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Glaze

1/4 cup ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Directions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, jalapeños, cheddar cheese, onion, garlic, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.

Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and shape it into a loaf. Smooth out the top for an even bake.

Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Spread it evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Bake the Meatloaf

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Rest and Serve

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some spices like cumin or smoked paprika to the meat mixture. Also, feel free to adjust the amount of jalapeños based on your spice preference!

Glazing for Flavor

The glaze is not just a finishing touch; it dramatically enhances flavor and creates an appealing presentation. To achieve a glossy finish, apply the glaze in the last 15 minutes of baking. This timing allows the sugars from the brown sugar to caramelize slightly while deepening the sauce's flavor without burning.

For variation in the glaze, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce for a smoky or extra spicy kick. You can also swap out the ketchup for a barbecue sauce, which would provide a tangy sweetness that complements the meatloaf beautifully.

Make-Ahead and Storing Tips

If you want to prep ahead, meatloaf can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap to maintain freshness. Alternatively, you can fully cook the meatloaf, let it cool, and then refrigerate for up to three days. When ready to serve, simply reheat in a low oven until warmed through.

For longer storage, consider freezing the uncooked meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag, and it can last up to three months. When you're ready to cook it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to account for the cold temperature.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef. Keep in mind that turkey is leaner, so you might need to adjust the breadcrumbs or add a bit of olive oil to keep it moist.

→ Can I freeze the meatloaf?

Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What can I serve with meatloaf?

Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad. The glaze also goes well on baked potatoes!

→ How do I know when the meatloaf is done?

The meatloaf is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this.