Why You’ll Love This Mexican Taco Meatloaf
- Leftover-Friendly: Perfect for next-day tacos, burritos, or sandwiches.
- Bursting with Flavor: Taco seasoning, salsa, and cheese make this meatloaf anything but boring.
- Easy and Versatile: Simple ingredients and prep—great for busy weeknights.
- Family-Friendly: A fun twist on meatloaf that kids and adults will both enjoy.
Tools You’ll Need
- Meat thermometer: To ensure it’s cooked perfectly.
- Mixing bowl: To combine ingredients.
- Loaf pan: To shape and bake the meatloaf.
- Spatula: For spreading toppings.
Mexican Taco Meatloaf Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Description
This Mexican Taco Meatloaf takes your classic comfort food to a whole new level with bold taco-inspired flavors! Packed with seasoned ground beef, zesty spices, salsa, and melty cheese, this meatloaf is a crowd-pleaser perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Serve it with a side of rice or a fresh green salad for a delicious, satisfying meal everyone will love.
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Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed tortilla chips for extra flavor)
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup salsa (mild, medium, or spicy—your choice)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon sour cream (optional, for moisture)
- 1 teaspoon cumin (for extra taco flavor, optional)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For the Topping:
- ½ cup salsa
- ½ cup shredded cheese
Garnishes (optional):
- Fresh cilantro
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced jalapeños
- Avocado slices
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs (or crushed tortilla chips), eggs, salsa, taco seasoning, chopped onion, shredded cheese, cumin, sour cream, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything until just combined—don’t overmix, as it can make the meatloaf tough.
Step 3: Shape and Bake
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down gently to form an even loaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes.
Step 4: Add Toppings
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven. Spread the additional salsa over the top and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Return to the oven for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold its shape.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, tomatoes, or avocado slices, and serve warm.
Notes
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until the ingredients come together to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Use Fresh Salsa: Fresh or chunky salsa adds great texture and flavor.
- Try Different Cheese: Pepper Jack adds a nice kick, while cheddar keeps it classic.
- Add Veggies: Mix in corn, black beans, or diced bell peppers for extra texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Storage Instructions
- To Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- To Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey works perfectly as a leaner option. Just watch the cooking time to avoid over-drying.
Q2: How can I make this meatloaf spicier?
Add chopped jalapeños to the mixture or use a spicy salsa and extra taco seasoning.
Q3: Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the meatloaf mixture, place it in the loaf pan, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Conclusion: A Flavorful Twist on Classic Comfort Food
This Mexican Taco Meatloaf is a fun and delicious way to switch up your dinner routine. With bold taco flavors, melty cheese, and zesty salsa, it’s a guaranteed hit with your family. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a satisfying, hearty meal!
Did you try this recipe? Leave a comment and share your photos with us—we’d love to see your tasty creation!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
Enjoy every flavorful bite of this Mexican-inspired meatloaf—it’s comfort food with a fiesta twist!