Description
Hearty Mexican taco meatloaf brings zesty southwestern flavors to classic comfort cuisine. Ground beef, spices, and cheese combine for a mouthwatering meal home cooks will savor and celebrate.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
Flavoring and Binders:
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 2 tablespoons ketchup or more salsa (for topping)
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs
Vegetables and Cheese:
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 1/4 cup diced bell pepper (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by heating to 375F (190C) and prepare a loaf pan with a light grease or parchment paper lining.
- In a spacious mixing bowl, thoroughly blend ground beef with zesty taco seasoning, crushed tortilla chips, vibrant salsa, melted cheese, whisked egg, finely diced onion, and chopped bell pepper until ingredients are just incorporated.
- Carefully mold the seasoned meat mixture into a cohesive loaf shape and transfer to the prepared baking vessel.
- Generously distribute ketchup or additional salsa across the meatloaf’s surface to create a flavorful coating.
- Position the loaf in the preheated oven and roast for 40-45 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 160F for safe consumption. Once cooked, sprinkle an extra layer of cheddar cheese on top and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese transforms into a molten, golden layer.
- Allow the meatloaf to settle and cool for 5-10 minutes, which helps the juices redistribute. Slice carefully and garnish with fresh cilantro, then serve alongside complementary sides like sour cream, creamy guacamole, or extra salsa for a complete Mexican-inspired meal.
Notes
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter, healthier alternative that maintains the bold Mexican flavor profile.
- Crush tortilla chips coarsely to provide extra texture and crunch, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the meat mixture for consistent seasoning.
- Control sodium levels by using low-sodium taco seasoning and fresh salsa, which helps manage overall salt content without compromising taste intensity.
- Make this dish gluten-free by selecting gluten-free tortilla chips or almond flour as a binding replacement, perfect for those with wheat sensitivities.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 330 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 21 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 13 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg