Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (beef)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheese) — cheddar or pepper jack for extra spice
- 3 jalapeños, deseeded and diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6-8 strips bacon
- Optional: hot sauce or cayenne pepper for spiciness
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, bread crumbs, milk, egg, salt, pepper, and hot sauce if desired. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Fold in the diced jalapeños and shredded cheese into the meat mixture. This gives the meatloaf that signature spicy and cheesy flavor that makes this dish so irresistible.
- Transfer the mixture to a prepared baking dish and shape it into a loaf. Use your hands or a spatula to smooth the top for even baking.
- Lay the bacon strips over the top of the meatloaf, covering as much as possible. This creates a crispy, flavorful bacon topping that elevates the dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 45-55 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This makes serving easier and ensures the juices stay flavorful.
Notes
- Optionally, add hot sauce or cayenne pepper to increase spiciness.
- Wrap the meatloaf tightly and refrigerate if making ahead of time, up to 24 hours.
- This dish pairs well with broccoli pasta, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free (without bread crumbs) , Keto (if using low-carb cheese and bread alternatives)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 130 mg
