A flavorful twist on the classic meatloaf, featuring gooey pepper jack cheese and a hint of spice.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Preheating ensures even cooking from the start.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the egg, bread crumbs, onion, salt, and pepper.
Mix gently to avoid overworking the mixture, which can make the meatloaf dense.
Add the ground beef to the bowl and mix until just combined.
Use your hands for even mixing, but don't overmix.
Press half of the beef mixture into a greased 8x4-inch loaf pan, shaping it to cover the bottom and sides.
Greasing the pan prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Sprinkle 3/4 cup of the shredded pepper jack cheese over the beef layer, keeping it away from the edges.
Keeping the cheese away from the edges prevents it from leaking out during baking.
Cover the cheese with the remaining beef mixture, pressing gently to seal the edges.
Ensure the edges are well-sealed to keep the cheese inside.
Bake the meatloaf uncovered for 50 minutes.
Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until melted.
For a golden crust, broil for the last minute.
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf juicier.
