Mexican-Inspired Taco Meatloaf – Experience a delightful twist. On a classic with this Mexican-Inspired Taco Meatloaf. Perfect for spicing up your dinner routine. Featuring a robust blend of lean ground beef, crispy corn chips. And a tantalizing corn and black bean salsa. This recipe brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico. Right to your table. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal to impress your family. Or just a cozy night in. This taco meatloaf. Is sure to be a hit.
The first time I made this meatloaf. It was on a whim. I wanted something comforting. Yet exciting for dinner. As the aromas filled our kitchen. My husband and child. Became curious. And excited. The result was beyond satisfying. Seeing their faces light up. At first taste. Made this recipe. A beloved staple. In our home. It’s now our go-to for family gatherings. Bringing a touch of warmth. And joy every time it’s served.
What makes this Mexican-Inspired Taco Meatloaf truly unique?
This Mexican-Inspired Taco Meatloaf uniquely blends. The comforting texture of traditional meatloaf. With the vibrant, spicy flavors of Mexican tacos. Making it a standout dish. For family dinners. It’s incredibly versatile. Allowing for customization. With various types of salsa. Or cheeses. To suit individual tastes. Or dietary needs. Additionally, its ability to please. Both adults and children alike. Makes it a perfect choice. For any meal. Where you want to impress. Without spending hours in the kitchen.
What You Need To Make This Mexican-Inspired Taco Meatloaf Recipe?
Corn Chips: These aren’t just for snacking. They add a delightful crunch. And a hint of corn flavor to the meatloaf. Enhancing its overall texture and taste.
Lean Ground Beef: Chosen for its lower fat content. It keeps the dish hearty. But not heavy. Serving as the perfect base. For the other ingredients.
Eggs: Essential for binding all the ingredients together. Ensuring that each slice of meatloaf. Is firm and satisfying.
Corn and Black Bean Salsa: This salsa adds sweet and tangy flavors. As well as a nice texture. Making every bite interesting. Feel free to swap in any chunky salsa you prefer.
Taco Seasoning: This brings the classic taco flavors to the meatloaf. Infusing it with a mix of spices. That warms up the dish.
Mexican Cheese Blend: Adds creaminess and a rich, cheesy flavor. That complements the spicy elements of the meatloaf.
Salt, Pepper, and Garlic Powder: These simple seasonings. Enhance the natural flavors of the other ingredients. Making the meatloaf more savory.
Steps To Make Mexican-Inspired Taco Meatloaf:
Step 1: Preparation: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5 inch loaf pan with foil and give it a quick spray with cooking oil for easy removal later.
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Step 2: Mixing Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, and crushed corn chips. Stir in 1/2 cup of salsa, taco seasoning, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Get your hands in there and mix everything thoroughly.
Step 3: Assembling the Loaf: Fold 1 cup of the cheese into your meat mixture before pressing it into your prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top and evenly spread the remaining cup of salsa over it.
Step 4: Baking: Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. Then, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and return to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the meatloaf’s internal temperature reads 160°F.
Step 5: Serving: Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes after baking. Lift it from the pan using the foil, slice, and serve warm.
Tip:
Once your taco meatloaf is beautifully baked. And the cheese is bubbling on top. Resist the temptation. To slice it immediately. Instead, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes. After removing it from the oven. This resting period. Allows the juices. To redistribute throughout the meatloaf. Ensuring that each slice is moist, flavorful. And holds together perfectly when cut. This simple step. Transforms a good meatloaf into a great one. Making each bite consistently delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this meatloaf with turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a great substitute for beef. If you’re looking for a leaner option.
What sides go well with this taco meatloaf?
This dish pairs wonderfully. With a side of cilantro lime rice, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables.
Can the meatloaf be made ahead and frozen?
Yes. You can prepare the meatloaf. Wrap it tightly. And freeze it. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. And bake as directed. For a delicious meal any time.
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Mexican-Inspired Taco Meatloaf
Ingredients
- 6 ounces corn chips
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 c corn and black bean salsa or your choice of chunky salsa
- 1 ounce taco seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 c shredded Mexican cheese blend
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x5 inch loaf pan by lining it with aluminum foil and spraying it with cooking spray.
- Crush Corn Chips: Place corn chips in a large Ziploc bag and crush them using a rolling pin until coarsely ground.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the crushed corn chips, ground beef, eggs, 1/2 cup salsa, taco seasoning, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly with your hands.
- Add Cheese: Mix in 1 cup of the shredded cheese into the meat mixture.
- Form the Loaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing it in evenly.
- Add Topping: Spread the remaining 1 cup of salsa evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes.
- Add More Cheese: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese on top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes, then use the foil to lift it out of the pan. Slice and serve warm.
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!
