Smoky Cheddar & Spicy Jalapeño Ranch Meatloaf
This Smoky Cheddar & Spicy Jalapeño Ranch Meatloaf is a deliciously hearty dish perfect for lunch or a substantial snack. Infused with applewood-smoked bacon, this meatloaf packs a punch with the addition of spicy jalapeños and zesty ranch flavors. The smoky cheddar adds a creamy, rich texture that elevates the traditional meatloaf experience. Enjoy it as a comforting meal, or pack it for lunch—your taste buds will thank you!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Applewood-smoked bacon
1/4 cup (chopped)
Ground sirloin
1 3/4 lbs
Ground pork
3/4 lb
Large eggs
4
Minced jalapeño
1/4 cup
Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon
Fresh ground black pepper
1 teaspoon
Salt
2 teaspoons
Chopped fresh cilantro
1/3 cup
Toasted ground Mexican oregano
1 tablespoon
Cubed smoked cheddar cheese
3/4 cup
Diced white onion
1 cup
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2
In an ovenproof skillet, cook the chopped applewood-smoked bacon over low heat for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to soften but is not fully crispy.
3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the partially cooked bacon with ground sirloin, ground pork, eggs, minced jalapeño, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, salt, chopped cilantro, toasted ground Mexican oregano, cubed smoked cheddar cheese, and diced white onion.
4
Use your hands or a spatula to mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
5
Transfer the meat mixture into the same skillet used for the bacon or an 8-inch loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf form.
6
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
7
Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this recipe?
The recipe is called Smoky Cheddar & Spicy Jalapeño Ranch Meatloaf.
What are the primary types of meat used in this loaf?
The recipe uses 1 3/4 lbs of ground sirloin and 3/4 lb of ground pork.
What kind of cheese gives this meatloaf its smoky flavor?
The recipe calls for 3/4 cup of cubed smoked cheddar cheese.
How much applewood-smoked bacon is required?
You will need 1/4 cup of chopped applewood-smoked bacon.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 325°F (160°C).
How many eggs are used in the mixture?
The recipe requires 4 large eggs.
What is the recommended baking time?
The meatloaf should be baked for 1 hour.
What internal temperature ensures the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
How long should the bacon be cooked before mixing?
The bacon should be cooked over low heat for approximately 5 minutes until softened.
Should the bacon be crispy when added to the meat?
No, the bacon should be softened but not fully crispy.
How much jalapeño is added to the recipe?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of minced jalapeño.
What type of onion is used in this meatloaf?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of diced white onion.
Is there any cilantro in this dish?
Yes, it includes 1/3 cup of chopped fresh cilantro.
What type of oregano is used?
The recipe specifies 1 tablespoon of toasted ground Mexican oregano.
How much Worcestershire sauce is needed?
You should use 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce.
What size pan is recommended for baking?
You can use an 8-inch loaf pan or the same skillet used to cook the bacon.
How long should the meatloaf rest after baking?
It should rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
How much salt is included in the seasoning?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of salt.
How much black pepper is used?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper.
Is this recipe suitable for lunch?
Yes, it is described as a hearty dish perfect for lunch or a substantial snack.
What texture does the smoked cheddar provide?
The smoked cheddar adds a creamy, rich texture to the meatloaf.
Can I mix the ingredients with a spatula?
Yes, you can use your hands or a spatula to mix the ingredients thoroughly.
What flavor profile does the description mention?
The flavor profile is described as smoky, spicy, and zesty.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include meatloaf, smoked cheddar, jalapeño, ranch, bacon, comfort food, lunch, dinner, spicy, and hearty.
Is ground pork necessary for this recipe?
Yes, 3/4 lb of ground pork is used alongside the sirloin for the correct texture and flavor.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
What is the total ingredient count?
There are 12 ingredients in this recipe.
Does the recipe use fresh or dried cilantro?
The recipe uses chopped fresh cilantro.
What makes the meatloaf 'Smoky'?
The smokiness comes from the applewood-smoked bacon and the smoked cheddar cheese.
How should the meat mixture be shaped?
The mixture should be shaped into a loaf form within the skillet or pan.