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Keto Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf with Bacon! 🍖

Published: · Updated: by Cast Iron Keto · 6 Comments

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This Keto Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf is a show-stopper of a meatloaf. Stuffed with a cheesy jalapeño popper filling and wrapped in bacon, this is a keto lovers' dream. Just be sure to add some veggies to your plate and a big side salad to balance out all this goodness.

Keto Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf cut in half to show the stuffed center

This unique meatloaf recipe takes the classic dish to a whole new level by incorporating the flavors of a jalapeno popper into the mix. Wrapped in crispy bacon, each slice offers a deliciously smoky taste, perfectly complementing the spiciness of the jalapenos.

But seriously, this meatloaf is especially delicious with a side of Brussels sprouts or charred broccoli…or both!

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Preparation and cooking overview

Making this Keto Jalapeno Popper Meatloaf is a breeze! Start by mixing together your meatloaf ingredients and shaping it in your favorite baking dish, leaving a cozy nook in the middle for the cheesy jalapeno filling. Then, wrap the meatloaf with a bacon blanket and bake until the bacon gets all crispy and the meatloaf is cooked through. It will be ready in about 1h and 30mins, so it's perfect for weekend cooking!

Chef's note

This keto meatloaf recipe is versatile, adaptable, and easily adjusted to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with different types of ground meat, such as beef or turkey, and adjust the heat level by using more or fewer jalapenos based on your spice tolerance.

Keto Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf before baking
Keto Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf filled with jalapeño popper mixture before baking
Keto Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf raw before baking
Keto Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf raw after being wrapped in bacon before baking
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Recipe Makes 8 Servings

🍖 Ingredients for this jalapeno popper meatloaf recipe

  • 2 lbs fresh ground chicken
  • 2 eggs
  • ¾ cup almond flour
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoons salt
  • 8 slices thin-cut bacon
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

For the filling

  • 8 ounces of packaged cream cheese
  • ¾ cup Mexican blend cheese
  • 1 7 oz can diced pickled jalapeno peppers

Ingredient substitutions

If you're looking for some ingredient substitution options for this classic meatloaf in bacon, here are a few suggestions:

  • Ground meat: You can use ground beef, turkey, or pork for a different taste and texture.
  • Almond flour: Use coconut flour or ground flaxseed as a keto-friendly alternative. You may need to adjust the quantity, as these flours have different absorbency levels.
  • Cheese: Instead of Mexican blend cheese, combine cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese or use one of them.
  • Jalapenos: For a milder flavor, use fresh jalapenos instead of pickled ones or switch to a different type of pepper, like poblano or Anaheim peppers.

Additional ingredients

Add toppings of your choice to enhance the flavors of cream cheese meatloaf without disrupting your keto diet. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Avocado slices: To add a creamy and healthy element, serve it with fresh avocado slices on top or the side.
  • Keto sour cream: Drizzle or serve it on the side as a cool and tangy complement to the spicy jalapeno flavor. Ensure that the one you're using is keto-friendly.
  • Chopped cilantro or parsley: Sprinkle some freshly chopped cilantro or parsley over the cooked dish for fresh flavor and a vibrant pop of color.
  • Keto-friendly BBQ sauce: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of barbeque sauce over it or serve it on the side for dipping.
  • Chopped green onions: Add a touch of color and a mild flavor by sprinkling some chopped green onions on top.

Cooking tools required

To make this Jalapeno Popper Meatloaf recipe, you'll need the following tools:

  • A large mixing bowl
  • A medium bowl
  • A 10.5-inch cast iron skillet or a loaf pan
  • A spatula or wooden spoon for mixing
  • A cutting board
  • A sharp knife
  • A meat thermometer
  • Aluminum foil (optional for easy cleanup)
  • Oven mitts

Tools substitute options

If you still need the exact cooking tools listed for the recipe, don't worry! Here are some substitute options that can help you get the job done:

  • Skillet: Use an oven-safe baking dish or loaf pan.
  • Mixing tools: Use a silicone spatula or wooden spoon interchangeably.
  • Oven mitts: Use a thick dish towel with caution.

How to make Jalapeno Popper Meatloaf: step-by-step guide

Cooking methods

  • Oven-baking

Preparation steps

  1. Gather all the ingredients for the meatloaf, filling, and any additional toppings you plan to use.
  2. Measure the ingredients according to the recipe to have them ready.
  3. Preheat your oven to 400° F (200° C) so it's ready when needed.
  4. Collect all the required cooking tools, such as a cast iron skillet or baking dish, mixing bowls, meat thermometer, spatula, and oven mitts.
  5. Drain the pickled jalapenos and chop them if necessary.
  6. Clean your working surface and wash your hands to maintain proper cooking hygiene.

Cooking instructions

  1. Combine meatloaf ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix the ground chicken, eggs, almond flour, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt until thoroughly combined.
  2. Shape the meatloaf: Divide the meat mixture in half. Place one half in a 10.5-inch cast iron skillet or baking dish, shaping it into a large meatloaf form. Create a divot in the middle for the filling.
  3. Prepare the filling: In a separate medium-sized bowl, mix the cream cheese, Mexican blend cheese, and diced pickled jalapenos until well combined.
  4. Fill the meatloaf: Transfer the jalapeno popper filling to the divot in the center. Top it with the remaining mixture and press the sides to seal the filling.
  5. Wrap the meatloaf with bacon: Take the thin-cut bacon slices and wrap them around the top, slightly tucking in the ends underneath the loaf.
  6. Bake: Place the skillet or baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes or until the bacon is crispy. The internal temperature reaches 165° F (74° C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
  7. Cool and serve: Once cooked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your bacon-wrapped jalapeno popper meatloaf with the best smoky flavor!
Keto Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf in a cast iron skillet

Chef's pro tip

To ensure an even cooking and prevent the meatloaf from drying out, consider covering the skillet or baking dish with aluminum foil for the first 30-40 minutes of baking. This will help retain moisture and prevent the bacon from becoming too crispy too soon. After 40 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking uncovered to achieve the perfect crispiness for the bacon while keeping the meatloaf juicy and tender.

How to make it healthier

  • Use leaner ground chicken: Opt for ground chicken breast instead of a mix of light and dark meat to reduce the overall fat content of the recipe.
  • Reduced-fat dairy: Choose reduced-fat cream cheese and a lower-fat Mexican blend cheese to cut down on saturated fat and calories without sacrificing the creaminess of the filling.
  • Add vegetables to the filling: Incorporate finely chopped spinach or kale into the cream cheese filling to increase the fiber and nutrient content while adding a pop of color and texture.
  • Choose nitrate-free bacon: Select nitrate-free bacon to wrap around the meatloaf, which can be a healthier alternative as it is free from added preservatives.
  • Reduce sodium: Use low-sodium pickled jalapeños or fresh jalapeños to control the sodium content. You can also adjust the amount of salt used in the meatloaf mixture to your preference.

Time-saving tips

  • Pre-chop jalapenos: Store your pickled jalapenos in an airtight container in the refrigerator to be ready to use when needed.
  • Pre-cook bacon: You can pre-cook the bacon slightly, making it easier to wrap around the meatloaf and reducing the cooking time.
  • Pre-mix dry ingredients: Combine almond flour, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt in a small container, so you can quickly add them to the meat mixture when preparing the mix.

What can I prepare ahead of time?

  • Make the filling: Prepare the cream cheese mixture, Mexican blend cheese, and jalapenos filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble the dish.
  • Pre-shape the meatloaf: You can shape the base and top layer in advance, cover them with plastic wrap, and store them in the refrigerator. When you're ready to cook, add the filling and assemble the meatloaf in the skillet.
  • Preheat the oven: Remember to preheat your oven before assembling to ensure it's at the right temperature when ready to bake.

Storage and reheating instructions

Storage Instructions

  • Allow the leftover jalapenos meatloaf to cool completely at room temperature.
  • Once cooled, slice into individual portions.
  • Wrap each portion tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place in airtight containers.
  • Store the wrapped portions or containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Reheating Instructions

  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap or foil from the slices and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Reheat for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
  • Microwave: Remove the plastic wrap or foil from the leftovers and place them on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to trap the steam to keep the meatloaf moist. Reheat at 50% power for 1-2 minutes, checking for desired temperature. If needed, continue to reheat in 30-second increments until heated through.

Recipe wrap-up and conclusion

Get ready to cozy up to our Keto Jalapeno Popper Meatloaf. It's a tasty mix of all your favorite things – a little spice, a little crunch, and a whole lot of flavor.

Think about this: juicy ground chicken filled with creamy, cheesy jalapeno goodness, all wrapped up in a crispy bacon blanket. Sounds pretty fantastic, right? This is a meal that's sure to bring smiles all around the dinner table.

And the best part? This meatloaf isn't just for your run-of-the-mill weeknight dinner. Nope, it's a real team player. Dress it up for those special get-togethers, or make it ahead of time for your weekly meal prep. It's a go-to addition to your keto recipe toolbox.

So go on, and serve yourself a hearty slice of this delicious meatloaf. It's not just a treat for your taste buds, but it also keeps you sailing smoothly on your keto journey. So here's to good food, good health, and happy cooking! Enjoy!

Frequently asked questions

For best results, use thin-cut bacon, which will cook more evenly and become crispy during baking. You can also use turkey bacon if you prefer a leaner option.

To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative, such as vegan cream cheese, and replace the Mexican blend cheese with dairy-free shredded cheese.

Some great side dish options for this meatloaf include a green salad, sautéed vegetables, cauliflower rice, or roasted Brussels sprouts.

📖 Recipe

Keto Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf cut in half to show the stuffed center

Keto Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf

This Keto Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf is a show-stopper of a meatloaf. Stuffed with a cheesy jalapeño popper filling and wrapped in bacon this is a Keto lovers' dream. Just be sure to add some veggies to your plate and a big side salad to balance out all this goodness.
5 from 1 vote
Print Rate Pin Recipe
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 472kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs ground chicken
  • 2 eggs
  • ¾ cup almond flour
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 8 slices thin-cut bacon

Filling:

  • 8 ounces cream cheese
  • ¾ cup Mexican blend cheese
  • 1 7 oz can diced pickled jalapeños

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 400° F.
  • In a large bowl mix together the meatloaf ingredients until thoroughly mixed. Divide by half and place half in a 10.5″ cast iron skillet in the shape of a large meatloaf. Make a divot in the middle.
  • In a medium bowl mix together the filling ingredients until combined, transfer to the center of the meatloaf then top it with the remaining meatloaf mixture. Press together the sides to seal in the filling.
  • Wrap the bacon around the top of the meatloaf slightly tucking in the ends underneath the loaf.
  • Transfer to the oven and bake for 60-70 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165° F. Remove from oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Keto Jalapeño Popper Meatloaf
Amount Per Serving
Calories 472 Calories from Fat 333
% Daily Value*
Fat 37g57%
Saturated Fat 14g88%
Cholesterol 194mg65%
Sodium 954mg41%
Potassium 747mg21%
Carbohydrates 5g2%
Fiber 2g8%
Sugar 2g2%
Protein 31g62%
Vitamin A 939IU19%
Vitamin C 2mg2%
Calcium 138mg14%
Iron 2mg11%
*

Nutritional values are estimates only and do not include carbs from sugar alcohols.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. kevin says

    just made it. and it's DELICIOUS.

    Reply

  2. Kim says

    Can I sub ground beef for the chicken? What would that do to the macros?

    Reply

    • Alex Lester says

      You can! Just plug your ingredients into a free app or website to get the macros for you specific substitutions. We use the KetoDiet App.

      Reply

  3. Betty says

    Will fresh jalapeños work? BTW: happy to have found your site.

    Reply

    • Alex Lester says

      Totally, we just like the pickled flavor in this!

      Reply

  4. Susan Moore says

    Made this tonight!!! So good! I used ground turkey instead of chicken! Delish!! Definitely putting it in our favorites!

    Reply

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