Spicy Baltimore Meatloaf

This is something I've been experimenting with for a while. I've finally perfected the recipe. It's slightly spicy, very savory, and very delicious. It reminds me of a spicier version of the meatloaf I grew up with. I've marked the spicy ingredients as optional, for those that want to try this recipe, but make it mild.

• Ready In: 1 hr
• Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 2  lbs ground beef
• 1 1⁄2 ounces bacon bits (about 1/2 a jar of store bought real bacon bits)
• 1  egg (large)
• 1⁄2 cup  breadcrumbs (I used Italian seasoned bread crumbs)
• 1  tablespoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1  tablespoon  Old Bay Seasoning
• 1⁄2 cup barbecue sauce (use your favorite)
• 1  teaspoon garlic powder
• 2  teaspoons onion powder
• 1  teaspoon sage (ground)
• 1  jalapeno pepper (chopped) (optional)
• 1  teaspoon salt
• 1⁄2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 4  tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 4  tablespoons parmesan cheese or 4  tablespoons romano cheese, grated

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Combine all ingredients except 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce and grated cheese in a large bowl.
3. Knead the meat mixture by hand until well combined (about five minutes).
4. Grease a baking pan (or use cooking spray).
5. Place meat in baking pan and form into a loaf shape.
6. Top meat with remaining BBQ sauce and grated cheese.
7. Bake meatloaf at 350 degrees for 45 minutes.
8. Once meatloaf is cooked (about 150 degrees internal temperature for medium, about 180 for well done), remove from oven and let rest for about ten minutes.
9. Slice into 3/4" thick slices and serve with BBQ sauce or ketchup.