Pepperjack Meatloaf 

This Pepperjack Meatloaf will transport you back to grandma’s kitchen with its comforting, cheesy aroma and tender texture. Featuring lean ground beef laced with savory seasoned breadcrumbs, onions, and the creamy kick of Monterey Jack pepper cheese, it's a dish that delivers both nostalgia and flavor. Ideal for family dinners or friendly gatherings, it's simple to make yet unforgettable once you taste it.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients 

• 1 large egg

• 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs

• ¼ cup finely chopped onion

• ½ to 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 to 1½ pounds lean ground beef

• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack pepper cheese (or regular Monterey Jack), divided

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400 °F (205 °C) for even cooking and a nice crust.

2. Mix Base Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, breadcrumbs, onion, salt, and pepper until the mixture is slightly sticky.

3. Combine with Beef: Add the lean ground beef and gently mix by hand just until ingredients are evenly combined avoid overmixing to keep the loaf tender.

4. Form the Loaf: Press about three-quarters of the meat mixture into a loaf pan, creating a small well down the center (a dampened spatula helps smooth it out).

5. Add Cheese Layer: Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese into the well to create a gooey, cheesy pocket in the middle.

6. Top and Seal: Cover the cheese layer with the remaining meat mixture and gently press to seal the edges. Top with the remaining cheese, pressing it lightly into the surface so it melts and adheres as it bakes.

7. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the top turns golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 160 °F (71 °C).

8. Rest Before Serving: Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after baking to help it hold its shape when sliced.

Nutrients & Nutrition Info

• From Taste of Home (similar recipe):

  • Calories: ~331 kcal

  • Fat: ~16 g (7 g saturated fat)

  • Cholesterol: 111 mg

  • Sodium: 681 mg

  • Carbohydrates: 15 g (1 g sugars, 1 g fiber)

  • Protein: 30 g

• From Hot Rod’s Recipes (close variant):

  • Calories: ~367 kcal

  • Carbs: 14 g

  • Protein: 40 g

  • Fat: 15 g (7 g saturated fat)

  • Sodium: 866 mg

  • Cholesterol: 137 mg