Taco Meatloaf (Mexican Meatloaf)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Taco Meatloaf is a fun and creative spin on the traditional meatloaf, bringing all the delicious flavors of tacos into a juicy, baked loaf. The addition of salsa, green chiles, and taco seasoning adds a wonderful depth of flavor. The melted cheddar jack cheese on top brings everything together, making it both comforting and exciting. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, and the result is a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds lean ground beef

• ½ cup whole milk

• 2 large eggs

• 1 packet taco seasoning (¼ cup)

• 1 cup white onion, finely chopped

• 4 ounces green chiles, drained

• 1 cup crushed tortilla chips

• 2 teaspoons minced garlic

• 1½ cups grated cheddar jack cheese (divided into 1 cup and ½ cup)

• 1 cup salsa (divided in half)

• Chopped cilantro, for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Spray a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, milk, eggs, taco seasoning, onion, green chiles, crushed tortilla chips, garlic, 1 cup of grated cheese, and ½ cup salsa. Use gloved hands to mix the ingredients until thoroughly combined.

3. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan. Top with the remaining ½ cup of salsa.

4. Bake for 1 hour and 20 minutes.

5. Top with the remaining ½ cup grated cheese and return to the oven to bake for about 5 more minutes until the cheese is melted and the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.

6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat crumbles for a vegetarian version of this recipe.

• Cheese: Feel free to swap out the cheddar jack cheese for other varieties such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a spicy pepper jack for extra kick.

• Spicy: If you like extra heat, add chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the meat mixture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the meatloaf in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes until hot.

FAQs

1. Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf up to a day in advance, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Bake it the next day when you’re ready to enjoy it.

2. Can I freeze Taco Meatloaf?

Absolutely! After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F for 45-60 minutes, or until heated through.

3. Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for the beef, though the texture and flavor will vary slightly.

4. How can I make this Taco Meatloaf spicier?

To make the meatloaf spicier, add chopped jalapeños or extra taco seasoning. You can also stir in some hot sauce for an added kick.

5. Can I use store-bought salsa?

Yes, you can use any store-bought salsa you like. However, using a homemade salsa can add an extra layer of flavor.

6. Can I substitute the tortilla chips with something else?

You can replace the crushed tortilla chips with crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs if preferred.

7. Do I need to add cheese to the meat mixture?

While the cheese adds a delicious creamy texture to the meatloaf, you can omit it if you’re looking for a lighter option.

8. What should I serve with Taco Meatloaf?

Taco Meatloaf pairs perfectly with rice, refried beans, or a fresh side salad. You could also serve it with some crispy tortilla chips.

9. Can I cook this meatloaf in a different-sized pan?

Yes, you can use a 9.5 x 5.5-inch loaf pan, and the cooking time will remain the same.

10. How do I know when my meatloaf is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 160°F for it to be fully cooked and safe to eat.

Conclusion

Taco Meatloaf is a delicious and fun twist on the traditional meatloaf recipe. With its bold taco flavors, melty cheese, and the added crunch of tortilla chips, it’s a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a sure-fire hit!