Easy Mexican Taco Meatloaf – Unleash the flavors of your favorite taco night in a hearty, comforting form with the Easy Mexican Taco Meatloaf. This recipe melds lean ground beef, spicy pepper Jack cheese, and the crunch of tortilla chips. All seasoned with bold taco flavors. Creating a delicious twist. On the classic meatloaf. Perfect for a family dinner or a filling meal prep option. This meatloaf brings a touch of zesty Mexican flair to your table.
The first time I tried this recipe. I was looking for a way. To spice up our weekly dinner routine. And stumbled upon the idea of a taco-themed meatloaf. The experiment was an instant hit! My husband. Always a fan of anything with a Mexican twist. Raved about how it perfectly captured the taco essence. In a less messy, sliceable form. Even my kids. Who are picky eaters. Loved the cheesy, meaty flavors. And now, it’s a requested favorite. Proving that taco night. Doesn’t always have to mean tacos.
What makes this Easy Mexican Taco Meatloaf truly stand out?
What makes this Easy Mexican Taco Meatloaf stand out? Is its creative fusion of classic comfort food. With the vibrant, spicy flavors of Mexican cuisine. The use of tortilla chips. Instead of the traditional breadcrumbs. Not only adds a delightful crunch. But also keeps the theme authentically Mexican. Pepper Jack cheese melts throughout the meatloaf. Offering little pockets of creamy, spicy goodness. With every bite. Additionally, this meatloaf is incredibly easy to prepare. Making it a perfect dish. For busy weeknights. Or a special weekend feast.
What You Need To Make This Easy Mexican Taco Meatloaf Recipe?
Lean Ground Beef: Provides a hearty base. Offering both substance and rich flavor. Without excess fat.
Onion: Softens as it cooks. Subtly enhancing the meatloaf with sweetness and depth.
Crushed Tortilla Chips: Serve a dual purpose. Adding a light corn flavor and a bit of texture. Reminiscent of taco shells.
Pepper Jack Cheese: Melts into the meat. Injecting pockets of creamy spice. For a delightful flavor contrast.
Taco Seasoning Mix: Packs a punch with traditional taco spices. Seasoning the meat thoroughly. With a robust flavor profile.
Eggs and Milk: Help to bind all the ingredients. Ensuring the meatloaf holds together. And remains moist throughout baking.
Mild Red Taco Sauce: Adds moisture and zesty spice. Enhancing the overall taste and texture of the meatloaf.
Steps To Make Easy Mexican Taco Meatloaf:
Step 1: Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5x3-inch loaf pan. And set aside.
Step 2: Mix Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, tortilla chips, pepper Jack cheese, and taco seasoning. Mix until all ingredients. Are evenly distributed.
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Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl. Whisk together the eggs, milk, and taco sauce.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures: Pour the egg mixture into the meatloaf mix. Stirring until just combined.
Step 5: Shape and Sauce: Press the mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Drizzle additional taco sauce down the center of the loaf.
Step 6: Bake: Place in the oven. And bake for 45 to 60 minutes. Or until an instant-read thermometer reads 160°F (72°C).
Step 7: Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tip:
Ensuring Even Cooking and Moisture. To make sure your Easy Mexican Taco Meatloaf cooks evenly and stays moist. Consider using a meatloaf pan with an insert. That allows fats to drain away while cooking. This keeps the meatloaf from sitting in grease. Which can make the bottom soggy and overly fatty. Without drying it out. Additionally, mixing the ingredients gently by hand. Rather than with a mixer. Ensures that the meat doesn’t become overworked and tough. Keeping the mixing to just enough to incorporate the ingredients. Helps maintain a tender, juicy texture. In your finished meatloaf.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the meatloaf a day in advance. And store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before you’re ready to serve. For the best results.
What can I serve with Mexican Taco Meatloaf?
It pairs wonderfully with a side of Spanish rice, a fresh salad, or some roasted vegetables. For a complete meal.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover meatloaf can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave. Until warmed through.
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<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Easy Mexican Taco Meatloaf
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lb lean ground beef
- 1 small onion chopped
- 1 c crushed tortilla chips
- ¾ c shredded pepper Jack cheese
- 1 1 oz packet taco seasoning mix
- 2 large eggs beaten
- ½ c milk
- ¼ c mild red taco sauce or more to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Prepare an 8x8-inch baking dish by lining it with foil and spraying with nonstick spray.
- Layer Crackers and Chips: Arrange 15 Club crackers in the bottom of the prepared dish. Sprinkle half of the peanut butter chips over the crackers.
- Make Caramel: In a saucepan, melt the butter with the brown sugar over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture becomes bubbly and takes on a creamy caramel consistency, about 4 minutes.
- Build Layers: Pour half of the caramel over the first layer of crackers and peanut butter chips. Add another layer of 15 crackers, sprinkle the remaining peanut butter chips, and cover with the remaining caramel. Finish with the last layer of 15 crackers.
- Top and Bake: Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the top layer of crackers and sprinkle with coarse sea salt. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 60 minutes or until the loaf is cooked through and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center reads at least 160 degrees F (72 degrees C).
- Cool and Serve: Allow the meatloaf to cool slightly in the pan before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm with your favorite sides or a simple salad.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
