This Mexican Meatloaf is a fun twist on a classic dish! Packed with ground beef, zesty spices, and topped with a yummy salsa, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Who knew meatloaf could be so exciting? I love to serve it with rice and beans for a hearty meal. Plus, it’s great on leftovers, just in case there’s any left! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the meatloaf. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you might use ground turkey or chicken. They work well too! I personally love a mixture of beef and pork for added flavor.
Onion and Bell Pepper: These add flavor and moisture. You can try using red onions for sweetness or even zucchini for a veggie boost. If you’re after a little heat, jalapeño works great too!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar brings richness to the dish. If you’re not a cheddar fan, Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can be good choices! They’re equally melty and delicious, plus they add their own special flavors.
Salsa: Use your favorite salsa style! Fresh salsa will give a nice zing. If you don’t have salsa, you could substitute with diced tomatoes or even barbecue sauce for a tangy twist.
How Do You Keep the Meatloaf Tender?
Mixing the meatloaf just right is crucial! If you mix too much, it can turn out tough. You want all the ingredients combined, but it’s okay if it’s a little uneven. Here’s how you can do it:
- Combine your breadcrumbs and milk, and let them soak—this keeps things moist.
- Use your hands or a fork for mixing. Don’t be overly aggressive!
- Try not to pack the meatloaf too tightly when shaping it in the pan. A gentle touch helps keep it light.
I like to let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after baking to help keep juices in when serving. Enjoy your juicy meatloaf!
How to Make Mexican Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper or poblano pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup salsa (your favorite style, chunky or smooth)
- 1-2 fresh jalapeños, sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Mexican meatloaf will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 60-70 minutes to bake. Make sure to let it rest for a few minutes before slicing so all those juicy flavors can settle in. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour 30 minutes to enjoy a wonderfully hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper so your meatloaf doesn’t stick.
2. Soak the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the milk. Let that soak for a few minutes. This step keeps the meatloaf nice and moist!
3. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, chopped pepper, minced garlic, egg, and all those spices: cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until well combined—be careful not to over-mix!
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Now, take half of the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf inside the loaf pan. You want it to be even. Sprinkle about 1/3 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the center of the loaf—let’s add some cheesy goodness!
5. Assemble and Add Toppings:
Cover the cheese layer with the remaining meat mixture, pressing gently to seal. It’s time for the salsa! Spread it evenly on top of the meatloaf, giving it that zesty punch.
6. Bake and Melt:
Pop the loaf pan into the oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). A few minutes before finishing, sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese on top and let it melt deliciously. Yum!
7. Serve It Up:
Once baked, take the meatloaf out and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with sliced jalapeños and fresh cilantro leaves for a delightful finish. Serve warm, alongside rice, beans, or your favorite salad.
Enjoy your flavorful Mexican meatloaf! It’s packed with deliciousness and a little kick that everyone will love.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works well in this recipe. Just keep an eye on cooking time, as it may vary slightly.
Can I Freeze Leftover Meatloaf?
Yes, you can! Once cooled, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. It should last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, you can use crushed tortilla chips, crushed crackers, or cooked rice as alternatives. Just make sure the consistency allows the meatloaf to hold together!
How Do I Know When the Meatloaf is Done?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for ground beef. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut into the center to check that it’s no longer pink.