This Mexican Meatloaf packs a flavorful punch with spices, ground beef, and that special twist of Mexican ingredients like salsa and cheese! It’s a hearty, warm dish that everyone will love.
I love serving it with a side of rice or mashed potatoes—it’s like a cozy hug on a plate! Plus, leftovers make the best sandwiches. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This recipe calls for 2 lbs of ground beef, which gives the meatloaf a rich flavor. If you prefer a healthier option, try ground turkey or chicken. They work well, just keep in mind the texture may be a bit different!
Cheeses: Pepper jack cheese adds a nice kick with its spicy flavor. If you want to tone it down, you can use mozzarella instead. For the cheddar topping, feel free to swap in any cheese you like, such as Monterey Jack or even a vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
Salsa: Salsa gives the meatloaf that Mexican flair! If you don’t have salsa on hand, you can use diced tomatoes or a mixture of tomato sauce with some spices for a similar effect.
Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs work great, but you can use crushed tortilla chips for an added crunch and flavor! Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also available if you need a gluten-free option.
How Can You Make Sure Your Meatloaf is Juicy?
To keep your Mexican Meatloaf juicy, it’s all about the mixing technique and cooking time. Don’t overmix the meat; just combine everything until it’s blended. Overworking can make it tough. Also, using eggs and milk keeps it moist. Ensure you monitor the internal temperature, aiming for 160°F. Letting it rest before slicing allows juices to redistribute, so it stays deliciously tender!
- Preheat the oven to ensure even cooking.
- Use lean ground beef to avoid excess fat, but feel free to add some moisture if you want more flavor.
- Let it rest after baking—about 10 minutes is perfect!
How to Make Mexican Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Cheese Layers:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
- 1 cup pepper jack cheese, cubed (for stuffing)
For the Topping:
- 3/4 cup salsa
- Garnishes: chopped fresh cilantro and diced white onion
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 20 minutes for prep, plus 60-70 minutes for baking, and then let it rest for about 10 minutes before cutting into it. The total time comes to around 1 hour and 30 minutes, but it’s well worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf cooks evenly!
2. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, cilantro, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. This will give your meatloaf that vibrant Mexican flavor!
3. Add the Binding Ingredients:
Now, add the breadcrumbs, eggs, and milk to the meat mixture. These ingredients will help keep the meatloaf moist and together.
4. Spice It Up:
Season the mixture with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently, being careful not to overwork the meat—it should be well combined but still tender!
5. Shape the Meatloaf:
On a baking sheet or in a loaf pan, shape half of the meat mixture into a loaf. Flatten it out a little, so there’s space for the cheese filling.
6. Add the Cheese:
Evenly distribute the cubed pepper jack cheese over the meatloaf base. This will create a delicious melty center!
7. Top It Off:
Carefully cover the cheese with the remaining meat mixture, shaping it so the cheese is completely enclosed. Make sure it’s sealed well!
8. Salsa Time:
Spread the salsa evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This adds moisture and flavor to the crust.
9. Cheese It Up:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the salsa layer for a gooey, cheesy topping.
10. Bake It:
Bake the meatloaf uncovered in the oven for about 60-70 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). It should be nicely browned on top!
11. Rest Before Slicing:
Let your meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes after taking it out of the oven. This helps the juices settle and makes slicing easier!
12. Garnish & Serve:
Garnish your meatloaf with freshly chopped cilantro and diced onion before serving. Enjoy it warm alongside rice or mashed potatoes for a heartwarming meal!
This Mexican Meatloaf is juicy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for family dinners or as leftovers for sandwiches!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for beef and will still yield a tasty meatloaf. Just keep in mind that turkey tends to be leaner, so you might want to add a bit of olive oil or an extra egg to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance! Simply combine all the ingredients and store it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, shape it and pop it in the oven. You may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it goes in cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual slices or warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
What Can I Serve with Mexican Meatloaf?
This flavorful meatloaf pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh salad. You can also serve it with tortillas for a fun twist, transforming it into tacos!
