Jalapeno Bison Meat Loaf Recipe – A Lean, Flavor Forward Comfort Classic
- Shane & Ibby Bridwell
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
This Jalapeno Bison Meat Loaf recipe is a refined take on a timeless comfort dish, made with lean ground bison, fresh peppers, and a gentle kick of jalapeno.
Naturally lower in fat than traditional beef meat loaf, bison delivers clean protein and rich flavor without heaviness. The result is a nourishing, satisfying meal with warmth, depth, and a subtle heat that elevates every bite. Perfect for anyone searching for a healthier meatloaf recipe that doesn’t sacrifice comfort or taste.
Key Benefits:
Made with lean ground from Bluestem Bison, naturally lower in fat and calories than beef
High in clean protein and iron to support energy, strength, and heart health
Fresh peppers and jalapeno deliver warmth, depth, and a refined kick of flavor
Satisfying and nourishing without heaviness: comfort food, elevated
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50-55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Serves: 3-4
Ingredients
For the Meat Loaf
1 lb ground bison
2 tsp olive oil or butter
1⁄2 medium yellow onion, finely diced
1⁄2 green bell pepper, finely diced
1 jalapeno, finely diced (seeded for mild, leave seeds for heat)
1 clove garlic, minced
1⁄2 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned)
1⁄3 cup milk
1 large egg
1 tsp kosher salt
3⁄4 tsp black pepper
3⁄4 tsp smoked paprika
3⁄4 tsp Worcestershire sauced
Glaze
1⁄3 cup ketchup
1.5 tbsp brown sugar
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Optional heat:
○ Pinch chili powder or cayenne
Instructions
1. Sauté vegetables
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add onion, green pepper, and jalapeno.
Cook 5–6 minutes until softened.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Mix the base
In a large bowl, combine:
Rolled oats
Milk
Egg
Salt, pepper, smoked paprika
Worcestershire
Let it sit for 2–3 minutes so the oats absorb liquid.
3. Add meat & vegetables
Add cooled vegetables and ground bison.
Mix gently just until combined. Do not overmix.
4. Shape
Place mixture into a lightly greased loaf pan
or shape free-form on a lined baking sheet.
5. Glaze
Mix glaze ingredients.
Spread 1⁄2 the glaze over the meatloaf.
6. Bake
Bake uncovered at 350°F for 40 minutes.
Remove, spread remaining glaze.
Return to oven and bake 10–15 more minutes, until: Internal temperature reaches 155–160°F
7. Rest & Serve
Rest 10 minutes before slicing.
Pro Tips
Lean bison cooks quickly. Avoid overbaking.
Allowing the oats to hydrate ensures a tender, cohesive loaf.
Resting before slicing preserves moisture and clean edges.
Variations
BBQ Finish: Swap ketchup for BBQ sauce in the glaze.
Mild Version: Omit jalapeno or remove all seeds.
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