This tasty chipotle meatloaf packs a little heat with smoky flavors. It’s made with ground beef and a zesty chipotle sauce, which gives it a nice kick!
It’s one of those meals that makes your kitchen smell amazing! I love slicing it up and serving it with mashed potatoes. Comfort food at its finest! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I prefer using 80% lean beef for a balance of flavor and juiciness, but you can swap it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Just keep in mind the meat might cook faster.
Chipotle Peppers: These add a nice smoky heat. If you want less spice, try using just one pepper or opt for smoked paprika instead for a milder flavor. You can also skip them entirely if you prefer it plain.
Breadcrumbs: I use regular breadcrumbs, but if you’re gluten-free, substitute with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Oats can also work for a hearty texture.
Milk: If you’re lactose intolerant or avoiding dairy, almond milk or oat milk can be great substitutes, maintaining moisture without dairy.
How Do I Make Sure My Meatloaf Stays Moist?
Keeping meatloaf moist can be tricky, but here’s how to do it. The key here is to not overmix the meat when combining ingredients. Overmixing can make it dense!
- Soak breadcrumbs in milk for at least 5 minutes for added moisture.
- Gently mix all ingredients together. Use your hands for the best results.
- Add a layer of ketchup on top before baking to lock in moisture.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking before slicing, as this helps it to hold moisture.
How to Make Chipotle Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from the chipotle peppers can)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chipotle meatloaf will take about 15 minutes to prep and will need about 1 hour to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 15 minutes before you can enjoy this hearty meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will get it nice and hot for your meatloaf. Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep it from sticking.
2. Prepare the Breadcrumbs:
In a large bowl, combine your breadcrumbs and milk. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes so the breadcrumbs can soak up the milk and become fluffy.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
Now, add your ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. Use your hands or a fork to mix everything together gently until it’s well combined, but be careful not to overmix or your meatloaf could turn dense.
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Next, shape your mixture into a loaf shape or press it into your prepared loaf pan. Ensure it’s packed evenly but not overly tight.
5. Add the Ketchup Glaze:
Spread a layer of ketchup evenly on the top of the meatloaf. This will create a delicious glaze as it bakes.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes. It’s done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the top is nicely glazed.
7. Rest and Garnish:
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute. Once rested, slice it up and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
This chipotle meatloaf is perfect served with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes. Enjoy every bite of this smoky, savory dish!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as ground turkey can cook faster than beef.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer less heat, use only one chipotle pepper or omit them entirely. You can also increase the amount of smoked paprika for flavor without the heat.
Can I Prepare This Meatloaf in Advance?
Yes! You can mix all ingredients and shape the meatloaf a day in advance. Wrap it tightly and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave or a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist if needed.
