This Mexican Meatloaf packs a punch with juicy ground beef, zesty salsa, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning. It’s like a fiesta in every bite!
Honestly, I love how easy it is to whip up. Just mix, shape, and bake—no complicated steps. Pair it with cheesy mashed potatoes for a dinner that feels like a hug!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using 80/20 ground beef for its balance of flavor and moisture. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you want a leaner option. Just note that the texture may change a bit.
Jalapeños: Adjust the heat by adding more or less jalapeños. If you’re sensitive to spice, try using bell peppers or mild green chilies instead for a nice flavor without the heat.
Shredded Cheese: A Mexican blend cheese is great, but feel free to use any cheese you love! Cheddar or pepper jack adds a nice kick. Vegan cheeses can also work if you’re avoiding dairy.
Salsa: I love using a medium salsa for balance, but you can choose mild or hot depending on your taste. If you have fresh tomatoes, you can make your own chunky salsa for a fresher taste!
How Can I Keep My Meatloaf Moist and Tender?
Keeping meatloaf moist requires attention to mixing and baking. Overmixing can lead to a tough loaf, so combine ingredients just until mixed.
- Use a combination of breadcrumbs and moist ingredients (like milk and egg) to retain moisture.
- Bake it on a baking sheet or line the loaf pan with parchment paper to allow fat to drain.
- Let the meatloaf rest after baking to help the juices redistribute before slicing.
How to Make Mexican Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 oz) or homemade equivalent
- 1 cup salsa (for topping and mixing)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Mexican Meatloaf recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 60-70 minutes to bake, plus a 10-minute resting time after baking. So you’re looking at about 1 hour and 30 minutes in total. It’s an easy and satisfying dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan lightly with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, jalapeños, minced garlic, beaten egg, milk, taco seasoning, and half of the shredded cheese. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper! Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together gently—just until combined. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Take half of the meat mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of the prepared loaf pan. This forms the first layer. Then, sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over this layer. Next, add the rest of the meat mixture on top, pressing it down gently to form an even loaf shape.
4. Add the Salsa:
Spread the salsa evenly over the top of your meatloaf. This will give it flavor and moisture while it cooks.
5. Bake:
Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reads 160°F (71°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, the meatloaf should be firm and no longer pink in the middle.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once baked, allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes. This is really important for letting the juices settle. Then, slice it into pieces and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. You can serve it with lettuce, pico de gallo, and a dollop of sour cream for a delicious touch!
Enjoy your spicy, cheesy Mexican Meatloaf, a comforting twist on a classic dish!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter option. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may differ slightly, so you might want to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Can I Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meat mixture and shape it in the loaf pan a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to bake, add the salsa on top and follow the baking instructions!
What Can I Serve with Mexican Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with sides like cheesy mashed potatoes, Mexican rice, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with extras like guacamole, sour cream, or additional salsa for dipping!
