Why Pepperjack Meatloaf Recipe is a Must-Try
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Pepperjack Meatloaf Recipe
Discover the bold and cheesy flavors of our Pepperjack Meatloaf Recipe, featuring juicy ground beef and melted spicy pepperjack cheese. This comforting and family-friendly dish combines simple pantry staples with a delicious twist, perfect for an easy dinner that everyone will love.
- Total Time: 1 hour 10-15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- 1 cup grated pepperjack cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¾ cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs/ground oats for GF version)
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup ketchup or tomato sauce (plus extra for topping)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Ingredients
- Fresh parsley or thyme (chopped, for color and aroma)
- Diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper (for extra spice)
- Grated carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers (for added moisture and nutrients)
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Finely dice the onion and mince the garlic. Grate the pepperjack cheese and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In a pan over medium heat, sauté the onion and garlic for 3-5 minutes until soft and fragrant. Let cool slightly before mixing.
- Mix the meatloaf base: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, sautéed onion and garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly to combine all ingredients without overmixing.
- Add the pepperjack cheese: Fold in the grated pepperjack cheese, reserving a small amount for topping.
- Shape and bake: Transfer the mixture to a lined loaf pan or shape into a loaf on a baking sheet. Spread a thin layer of ketchup or tomato sauce on top and sprinkle with reserved cheese. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes, until cooked through and top is golden brown.
- Rest and serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking to lock in the juices before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Don’t overmix to avoid a dense meatloaf; mix just until combined.
- Use freshly grated pepperjack cheese for better melting and flavor.
- Allow the meatloaf to rest after baking for juicier slices and better hold.
- Adjust seasonings, herbs, and sauces to fit your taste preferences.
- Use a meat thermometer aiming for 160°F (71°C) for safe, perfect doneness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats used)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/6 of meatloaf)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
Keywords: pepperjack meatloaf, cheesy meatloaf, spicy meatloaf, family dinner, ground beef meatloaf, comfort food, easy meatloaf recipe
