Bring bold, savory flavors to your table with this Mexican Taco Meatloaf! A twist on the classic comfort food, this dish combines ground beef, taco seasoning, crushed tortilla chips, and cheese, topped with salsa and melted cheese for a flavorful finish. Perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings, it’s a hearty dish that’s sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Mexican-Inspired Flavors: The combination of taco seasoning, salsa, and cheese adds a delicious twist to traditional meatloaf.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples like ground beef, tortilla chips, and taco seasoning.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level or add your favorite mix-ins.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main dish, or use leftovers for sandwiches or tacos.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family dinners or potluck events.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips (or breadcrumbs)
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 1 medium bell pepper (red or green), finely diced
- ½ cup salsa
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
For the Topping:
- ½ cup salsa
- ½ cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
Optional Garnishes:
- Sliced jalapeños
- Sour cream
- Diced avocado or guacamole
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Additional salsa
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, taco seasoning, crushed tortilla chips, shredded cheese, eggs, onion, bell pepper, salsa, and cilantro (if using). Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
Shape the Meatloaf
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan or baking sheet. Shape it into a loaf approximately 9 inches long and 5 inches wide.
Add the First Layer of Topping
- Spread ½ cup salsa evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake the Meatloaf
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Add the Cheese Topping
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and sprinkle ½ cup shredded cheese over the top. Return it to the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Rest and Serve
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to ensure it holds its shape. Garnish with optional toppings like sliced jalapeños, sour cream, or guacamole.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with Mexican rice, cilantro lime rice, or a simple green salad.
- Serve alongside black beans or roasted vegetables.
- Use leftovers for taco-style sandwiches or wraps.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Servings: 6
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based ground meat and dairy-free cheese for a vegetarian version.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate diced jalapeños, corn, or black beans for extra texture and flavor.
- Different Toppings: Swap salsa for enchilada sauce or top with pico de gallo.
- Spicy Version: Use hot salsa, pepper jack cheese, or add chili flakes to the mixture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap cooked meatloaf in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave or oven until heated through.
FAQs
1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative.
2. What can I use instead of tortilla chips?
Breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can be substituted, but tortilla chips add a unique flavor.
3. Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the meatloaf, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
4. How do I prevent the meatloaf from falling apart?
Avoid overmixing the ingredients and let the meatloaf rest before slicing.
5. Can I make individual meatloaf portions?
Yes, shape the mixture into mini loaves or muffins and adjust the baking time to 20-30 minutes.
6. What’s the best salsa to use?
Use your favorite salsa, adjusting for spice level based on preference. Mild, medium, or hot all work well.
7. Can I skip the cheese topping?
Yes, the cheese is optional, but it adds a delicious, gooey finish.
8. How can I make the recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tortilla chips or breadcrumbs and verify that your taco seasoning is gluten-free.
9. What sides go best with this dish?
Mexican rice, black beans, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad complement the meatloaf perfectly.
10. Can I freeze the uncooked meatloaf?
Yes, assemble the meatloaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze it. Bake directly from frozen, adding additional time.
Conclusion
Mexican Taco Meatloaf is a bold and flavorful twist on a classic recipe, making it a fantastic choice for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. Packed with Mexican-inspired ingredients, it’s both hearty and satisfying. Customize the toppings to suit your taste, and enjoy this delicious dish any night of the week!
Print
Mexican Taco Meatloaf Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Elevate classic meatloaf with a Mexican twist! This Mexican Taco Meatloaf combines zesty taco seasoning, crushed tortilla chips, salsa, and gooey cheese for a flavorful, family-friendly dinner. Perfect for weeknights or potlucks, it’s a crowd-pleasing favorite!
Ingredients
Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips (or breadcrumbs)
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 1 medium bell pepper (red or green), finely diced
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Topping:
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
Optional Garnishes:
- Sliced jalapeños
- Sour cream
- Diced avocado or guacamole
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Additional salsa
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, taco seasoning, crushed tortilla chips, cheese, eggs, onion, bell pepper, salsa, and cilantro (if using).
- Mix until just combined—do not overmix to ensure a tender texture.
3. Shape the Meatloaf
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan or baking sheet.
- Shape into a loaf about 9 inches long and 5 inches wide.
4. Add the First Layer of Topping
- Spread ½ cup salsa evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake the Meatloaf
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle ½ cup shredded cheese over the top.
6. Melt the Cheese
- Return to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Rest and Serve
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to maintain its shape.
- Garnish with optional toppings like jalapeños, sour cream, or guacamole.
8. Serving Suggestions
- Pair with Mexican rice, cilantro lime rice, or black beans.
- Use leftovers for taco-style sandwiches or wraps.
Notes
- Tortilla Chip Substitution: Breadcrumbs can replace tortilla chips, but the chips add a unique flavor.
- Veggie Add-Ins: Try adding diced jalapeños, corn, or black beans for extra flavor and texture.
- Adjust Heat: Use mild, medium, or hot salsa and cheese based on your spice preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 375 kcal per serving
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