Easy & Delicious Pepperjack Meatloaf: Your New Weeknight Favorite! 🍖🧀🔥
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a best Pepperjack Meatloaf recipe that combines gooey cheese, spicy pepperjack, and hearty ground meat, you’re in luck! This easy Pepperjack Meatloaf is perfect for weeknights, impresses dinner guests, and offers a satisfying twist on traditional meatloaf. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a flavorful dish ready in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this recipe promises delicious results with minimal fuss.
2. Ingredients for a Perfect Pepperjack Meatloaf
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup shredded pepperjack cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: sliced jalapeños for extra heat
3. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pepperjack Meatloaf
Preparation of Ingredients
Gather all ingredients and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, bread crumbs, milk, eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Gently fold in the shredded pepperjack cheese, ensuring an even distribution.
Shape and Bake the Meatloaf
Transfer the mixture into your prepared loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf form. For a crispy crust, you can also form it into a free-form shape on a baking sheet. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). During the last 10 minutes, you may add sliced jalapeños on top for extra flavor and spice.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Pepperjack Meatloaf
Allow the meatloaf to cool completely before storing. Place slices in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped tightly in aluminum foil or freezer bags. Reheat slices in the oven or microwave for a quick, satisfying meal. Learn more about meatloaf variations and storage tips.
5. Serving Suggestions for the Best Pepperjack Meatloaf
This easy Pepperjack Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a fresh garden salad. For an extra touch, drizzle with your favorite gravy or serve with a side of roasted vegetables. Want a complete meal? Check out our delicious pasta recipes or hearty rice dishes to serve alongside.
6. Frequently Asked Questions about Pepperjack Meatloaf
Can I use ground chicken or turkey for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground chicken or turkey for beef. Just keep in mind that poultry may cook slightly faster, so check for doneness around 50-55 minutes.
What are some suitable dietary modifications?
For a low-carb version, omit bread crumbs and increase the amount of cheese. To make it gluten-free, use certified gluten-free bread crumbs or almond flour.
How long does it take to prepare and cook?
The preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional 55-60 minutes of baking. Overall, you can expect a ready-to-eat meal in under 1 hour and 15 minutes.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master: Make quick work of chopping onions and garlic—saving you prep time and effort.
- KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer: Perfect for mixing ingredients thoroughly and evenly blending cheese into the meat mixture.
- Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker: Use for slow-cooking alternative recipes or keeping the meatloaf warm before serving.
Investing in these tools helps elevate your cooking experience and ensures your easy Pepperjack Meatloaf turns out perfectly every time.
8. Related Recipes to Explore
9. Conclusion
This best Pepperjack Meatloaf recipe blends zesty cheese and juicy ground meat into a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights or weekend dinners. Easy to prepare and irresistibly tasty, it’s sure to become a staple in your family menu. Take your cooking to the next level with simple tools like a stand mixer or a versatile veggie prep master, and don’t forget to explore our related recipes for even more delicious ideas. Get ready to enjoy a hearty meal that everyone will love!
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Easy & Delicious Pepperjack Meatloaf: Your New Weeknight Favorite!
Discover the ultimate easy and delicious Pepperjack Meatloaf that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. Packed with flavorful spiced pepperjack cheese, seasoned ground meat, and simple ingredients, this hearty dish combines comfort and a spicy twist. Ideal for impressing family and guests alike, it’s a quick, straightforward recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss.
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup shredded pepperjack cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: sliced jalapeños for extra heat
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, bread crumbs, milk, eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
- Gently fold in the shredded pepperjack cheese, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf. For a crispy crust, form it into a free-form shape on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). During the last 10 minutes, add sliced jalapeños on top if desired.
Notes
- Allow the meatloaf to cool completely before slicing for best results.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- To freeze, wrap slices tightly in aluminum foil or freezer bags for future meals.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick, satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55-60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free option available
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 1/8 of a 9-inch loaf)
- Calories: 350 Kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
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