This Chipotle Meatloaf is a fun twist on a classic dish. It’s packed with flavor from the smoky chipotle peppers and savory spices, making it super tasty!
I love how easy it is to make! Just mix everything up, pop it in the oven, and soon you have a cozy meal to enjoy. It’s perfect with mashed potatoes or a salad on the side!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I often use a mix of beef and pork for added flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well, too. Just keep in mind that these may cook a bit differently.
Chipotle Peppers: These give great smoky heat! If you prefer less spice, use just one pepper or replace them with a teaspoon of smoked paprika for that smoky flavor without the heat.
Breadcrumbs: I like using plain breadcrumbs, but if you want a gluten-free option, try almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Oats can work too for a different texture.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness, but if you’re not a fan, parsley is a great substitute. You could also skip it altogether to keep it simple.
Ketchup: While ketchup is classic for the glaze, BBQ sauce can add a fun twist. Honey or maple syrup mixed with some tomato paste is a delicious alternative for a sweeter topping.
How Do I Mix Meatloaf Without Overdoing It?
Mixing the ingredients for meatloaf properly is crucial. Overmixing can make it dense, so here’s how to do it right:
- Start by combining the wet ingredients (eggs, milk) in one bowl, and the dry ingredients (breadcrumbs, spices) in another.
- Add the wet ingredients to the meat and dry mix.
- Use your hands or a fork to gently combine everything. Stop mixing as soon as it’s just blended.
- This keeps your meatloaf tender!
Remember, you want to keep some air in the mixture to allow it to rise and stay fluffy!
How to Make Chipotle Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped (adjust for heat preference)
- 1/4 cup adobo sauce from the chipotle peppers
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup ketchup or tomato sauce (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for topping)
- Optional: sliced jalapeños for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chipotle Meatloaf takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 1 hour to bake. Plus, you’ll want to let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. In total, you should plan for about 1 hour 25 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the meatloaf cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, and milk. Mix these ingredients until combined, but be careful not to overmix; you want a tender loaf!
3. Add Flavor:
Now, add the finely chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, and chopped cilantro. Gently mix everything together until just combined.
4. Shape and Glaze:
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish or loaf pan. In a small bowl, combine the ketchup (or tomato sauce) with brown sugar. Spread this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake the Meatloaf:
Put the meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 1 hour. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
6. Rest and Slice:
Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This helps retain the juices when slicing!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with extra chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños if you like a little more spice. Serve warm with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or a crisp salad.
This Chipotle Meatloaf brings a smoky, slightly spicy flavor to the classic dish, topped with a sweet and tangy glaze. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option! Just keep in mind that these meats can be a bit drier, so you might want to add an extra egg or a bit more milk to keep the meatloaf moist.
How Should I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Freeze Meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the meatloaf after it’s baked. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep well in the freezer for about 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
What Can I Serve with Chipotle Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it with steamed vegetables or roasted potatoes for a hearty meal.
