Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Pepperjack Meatloaf Recipe

Pepperjack Meatloaf Recipe

This Pepperjack Meatloaf Recipe offers a comforting and hearty meal with a spicy, cheesy twist. Combining classic meatloaf flavors with the bold heat and creaminess of pepperjack cheese, this dish is moist, flavorful, and kid-friendly yet packed with a mild kick. Perfect for family dinners or casual weeknights, it’s easy to prepare with simple pantry staples and results in a tender meatloaf with melted cheese pockets or a stuffed cheesy center.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 10-20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
  • 1 cup pepperjack cheese, cubed or shredded
  • ¾ cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup ketchup, plus extra for topping
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (to increase spice)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Finely dice the onion and garlic to release their flavors. Cube or shred the pepperjack cheese so it’s ready to mix or stuff inside the meatloaf. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the meat mixture.
  2. Mix the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and diced onions and garlic. Gently mix using your hands or a spoon until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the loaf tender.
  3. Add the Pepperjack Cheese: Either fold the cheese cubes directly into the meat mixture for pockets of melted cheese throughout, or shape half the meat mixture into a loaf base, layer the cheese cubes on top, then cover with the remaining meat mixture for a stuffed center.
  4. Shape and Bake: Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape on a baking sheet or inside a loaf pan. Brush the top with extra ketchup or your preferred glaze for a glossy finish. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is moist and flavorful.

Notes

  • Select finely ground beef for an even texture.
  • Do not skip resting time to prevent the meatloaf from falling apart and to lock in moisture.
  • Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and drying out the meatloaf.
  • Adding finely diced vegetables like carrots or celery enhances nutrition without compromising flavor.
  • Adjust the heat level by varying the amount of pepperjack cheese or adding chili flakes according to taste.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55-65 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 150g)
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 650 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg

Keywords: meatloaf, pepperjack cheese, spicy meatloaf, cheesy meatloaf, comfort food, gluten free meatloaf, easy dinner