Print

Flavorful Cheddar and Jalapeno Stuffed Meatloaf Recipe with Easy Bourbon Glaze

cheddar and jalapeno stuffed meatloaf - featured image

A hearty and comforting meatloaf stuffed with melty sharp cheddar and spicy jalapenos, topped with a sticky, slightly sweet bourbon glaze. Perfect for a cozy dinner with a twist of southern charm.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (115 g)
  • 2 medium jalapenos, finely diced (seeds included or removed based on heat preference)
  • 3/4 cup breadcrumbs (75 g), plain recommended
  • 1/4 cup whole milk (60 ml) or dairy-free alternative
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup bourbon (60 ml)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (50 g)
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (120 ml)
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, chopped onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. In a small bowl, mix shredded cheddar and diced jalapenos. Set aside.
  4. Form half the meat mixture into a 9×5 inch rectangle about 1-inch thick on the baking sheet or in the loaf pan.
  5. Spread the cheddar and jalapeno mixture evenly over the base layer, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
  6. Place the remaining meat mixture over the stuffing, pressing and sealing the edges to encase the filling. Smooth the top and sides.
  7. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine bourbon, brown sugar, ketchup, and apple cider vinegar. Stir and simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened and glossy. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
  8. Brush half of the bourbon glaze over the meatloaf surface before baking.
  9. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). About 20 minutes before the end, brush on the remaining glaze.
  10. Remove from oven and tent loosely with foil. Let rest for 10 minutes.
  11. Slice thick and serve warm.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat mixture to avoid a tough meatloaf. Seal edges well to prevent cheese leakage. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure doneness at 160°F. Brush glaze twice for best flavor and sticky finish. Rest meatloaf before slicing for cleaner cuts. For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds. Adjust jalapeno seeds for heat preference.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, cheddar, jalapeno, bourbon glaze, comfort food, spicy meatloaf, stuffed meatloaf, easy dinner