Description

Looking to spice up your dinner routine? Try this Taco Meatloaf recipe for a delightful twist on the classic meatloaf. Bursting with Mexican flavors like taco seasoning, green chiles, and salsa, this dish is bound to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

2 pounds lean ground beef
½ cup whole milk
2 large eggs
1 packet taco seasoning (1/4 cup)
1 cup white onion, finely chopped
4 ounces green chiles, drained
1 cup crushed tortilla chips
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 ½ cups grated cheddar jack cheese (divided into 1 cup and 1/2 cup)
1 cup salsa (divided in half)
Chopped cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Spray a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
Combine ground beef, milk, eggs, taco seasoning, onion, green chiles, crushed tortilla chips, garlic, 1 cup of grated cheese, and ½ cup salsa in a large mixing bowl. Mix the ingredients until thoroughly combined.
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan. Top with the remaining ½ cup of salsa.
Bake for 1 hour 20 minutes. Top with the remaining ½ cup grated cheese and return to the oven to bake for about 5 minutes longer, until the cheese has melted and the center of the meatloaf registers 160°F.

Nutritional Information:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 8

Notes

Serving Tips:

Slice and Serve: Allow the taco meatloaf to rest for a few minutes after baking before slicing. This makes it easier to cut into neat slices.
Garnish with Cilantro: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the sliced meatloaf before serving to add a burst of freshness and color.
Accompaniments: Serve with your favorite Mexican-inspired sides such as rice, beans, guacamole, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: If you want to freeze the meatloaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw frozen meatloaf overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat slices in the microwave or oven until heated through. Add a sprinkle of cheese on top before reheating for extra gooeyness.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your taco meatloaf remains fresh and delicious for longer, allowing you to enjoy its fantastic flavors even after the initial serving.