Pepper Jelly Meatloaf: A Sweet and Spicy Twist on Classic Comfort Food

If you’re looking to elevate your meatloaf game, this pepper jelly meatloaf offers a deliciously sweet and spicy twist on the traditional recipe. Combining the savory flavors of beef and pork with the unique kick of pepper jelly, this meatloaf is glazed to perfection. It’s easy to prepare and makes for a satisfying weeknight meal or an impressive dish for entertaining guests.

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What sets this recipe apart is its use of pepper jelly. The jelly's sweet heat complements the meatloaf's hearty flavors while adding an unexpected zing. A mix of ground beef and pork ensures a tender and flavorful loaf, and the glaze—made with a combination of pepper jelly and ketchup—seals in the moisture and adds a tangy, sticky layer of goodness on top.

This recipe stands out for its unique flavor profile and ease of preparation. The pepper jelly glaze adds a layer of sweetness and spice, giving this meatloaf a distinctive edge over more traditional versions. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this meatloaf is moist, flavorful, and topped with a glaze that creates a caramelized, sticky finish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Pair it with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete, comforting meal.

The History of Meatloaf: A Comfort Classic with Global Origins

Meatloaf, while often considered a quintessential American dish, has deep roots in culinary history. The earliest iterations of meatloaf can be traced back to ancient Roman times, where seasoned minced meat was shaped into loaves and cooked. Over the centuries, this concept spread throughout Europe, with each culture adding its unique twist.

In the United States, meatloaf gained immense popularity during the Great Depression. It became a practical meal that stretched ingredients like ground meat by adding fillers such as breadcrumbs, oatmeal, or vegetables. The meatloaf we know today—often topped with a ketchup-based glaze—evolved over time, with the mid-20th century marking its solidified place in American cuisine. As for pepper jelly, its roots can be traced to the Southern United States, where it became a staple condiment known for balancing sweet and spicy flavors. When combined with meatloaf, it introduces a delightful Southern flair to a classic dish.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 8 Servings):

• Calories: 430 kcal
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 23g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Sugar: 15g

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the meatloaf in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can also freeze the meatloaf by wrapping it tightly and storing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Cooking Tips

Customize your meatloaf by using ground turkey or a blend of pork and beef. If you prefer more heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the glaze or use a spicier variety of pepper jelly. To ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

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Pepper Jelly Meatloaf Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups seasoned panko bread crumbs
• ½ cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup minced onion
• 1 tablespoon finely minced garlic
• 1 cup Hot Pepper Jelly, divided (Recipe HERE, or use store bought)
• ¾ cup ketchup, divided
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or 90/10 works fine)
• ½ pound ground pork

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and place the oven rack in the center.
2. Spray a 9½ x 4-inch loaf pan with non-stick spray. Line a small baking sheet with foil and spray it with non-stick spray as well.
3. In a large bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, milk, and beaten eggs. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes while you mince the onions and garlic.
4. Stir in the minced onions, garlic, ½ cup of the pepper jelly, ¼ cup of ketchup, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.
5. Gently fold in the ground beef and pork until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a tender texture.
6. Scrape the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the meatloaf from the oven, drain any excess fat, and carefully invert the half-cooked meatloaf onto the foil-lined baking sheet.
8. In a small bowl, mix the remaining ½ cup of pepper jelly with ½ cup of ketchup. Brush the glaze evenly over the meatloaf.
9. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

This pepper jelly meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic comfort dish. The sweet heat of the pepper jelly glaze perfectly complements the savory meat, making it a dish that stands out on any dinner table. With its rich flavor and satisfying texture, this meatloaf is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh salad for a complete and hearty meal. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this recipe is straightforward and sure to impress!