Give Traditional Meatloaf A Kick Of Flavor With One Simple Ingredient

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

If you're a meatloaf fan, you probably have a favorite recipe already, but one of the great things about meatloaf is how versatile it is. Some recipes call for onions, mushrooms, garlic, and peppers; others might be made from ground pork or ground turkey rather than beef. You can include all kinds of binders like eggs or bread crumbs, and just about any seasoning mix you can think of. This versatility leaves room for some unexpected add-ins, including jalapeño popper dip.

There are plenty of store-bought brands to choose from, but two good options are Culinary Cowgirls Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Popper Dip and Taste of the South Jalapeño Popper with Bacon Dip (which cost $6 and $5, respectively). Culinary Cowgirls suggests right on the package to use it with burritos, burgers, pasta, and more. In other words, it's designed to enhance recipes, including those with beef, so it's a great choice here. Reviews praise the strong flavor of this one as well as the smooth, creamy texture. It will help keep the meatloaf moist inside while adding a spicy, cheesy flavor. The result will be a contrast between the browned meatloaf exterior and the soft, creamy filling inside.

TikTok user Patrick Springer showed just how easy a jalapeño popper dip meatloaf can be. Prepare the meatloaf the way you normally would by mixing ground meat with whatever add-ins you like. (We have a classic meatloaf recipe you could use if you're looking for a jumping-off point.) For seasoning, stick with flavors that complement the dip's cheese and jalapeño. Consider dicing some fresh jalapeño as well since the spice from the dip may not come through after cooking.

Once the meat mixture is ready, flatten it into an even rectangle on a baking sheet or some parchment paper, then spoon the jalapeño dip down the center from one end to the other. Keep it chilled before use so it's thick and holds together. Now fold the meat mixture over the filling to form a loaf, sealing the dip in the center. Make sure to close the ends well so the cheesy filling doesn't leak out while it cooks. Bake the meatloaf according to your recipe and check the temperature as you go since the filling may alter the cook time slightly. 

@patrick_springer

#smoked #jalapenopoppers #meatloaf This one was #delicious #easyrecipe #food #foodie

♬ original sound – Patrick Springer

Jalapeño popper dip works well inside meatloaf not just because the flavors complement each other but because it changes the texture of the finished dish. Because you're introducing a new element, the dip breaks up what can otherwise be a uniform texture, something which people tend to dislike about meatloaf. Stuffing meatloaf with jalapeño popper dip brings a new texture plus flavor and heat. It's a triple threat with one single ingredient.

You can capitalize on these changes further by adding bacon to the exterior of your meatloaf and letting it crisp up. You could even use your air-fryer to crisp up some cheese to add on top of individual meatloaf slices or serve it as a side. If you want more heat, mix some hot sauce into the ketchup glaze. There are a ton of ways you can elevate meatloaf, many of which can be adapted to this jalapeño popper dip version.