When I made this Mexican Meatloaf Recipe for the first time, I couldn’t believe how much my family loved it! I enjoy Tex-Mex flavors, so the idea of mixing salsa, crispy tortilla chips, and melted cheddar into a comforting meatloaf was too tempting to resist. Spoiler alert – it was amazing!
The juicy, cheesy pockets of flavor and the spicy kick from the taco seasoning created a perfect balance. My favorite way to enjoy it is topped with sour cream and fresh avocado slices. It’s such an easy and fun recipe that guarantees big, bold flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe blends classic meatloaf with exciting Tex-Mex flavors for a truly unforgettable meal.
- 6 oz cubed cheddar cheese, 2 oz shredded cheddar cheese (for topping): The melty, gooey cheese adds essential creaminess.
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (85% lean recommended): The right mix of lean fat ensures juicy and flavorful meatloaf.
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained: Add a hearty texture and earthy undertone to each bite.
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned): Provides a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
- 1 ¼ cups crushed tortilla chips: A Tex-Mex twist replacing breadcrumbs.
- 2 large eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients together.
- 1 cup salsa, divided (¾ cup for the mix, ¼ cup as a topping): Adds zest and a touch of heat.
- 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 oz): Brings bold, spicy Tex-Mex flavor.
Note: This recipe serves 8 hearty portions.
Exciting Variations You’ll Love
It’s easy to customize this Mexican Meatloaf to suit your tastes and diet. Give these variations a try!
- Low-Carb Swap: Use ground pork rinds or almond flour instead of tortilla chips.
- Vegetarian Alternative: Combine cooked lentils and finely chopped mushrooms for a satisfying meatless version.
- Crank Up the Spice: Add diced jalapeños or use extra-hot salsa for more heat.
- Healthy Remix: Swap in ground turkey and cut back on the cheese for a lighter version.
How Long Does It Take?
You’ll have this delicious dish ready in no time!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
What You’ll Need to Get Cooking?
Gather these tools to make your cooking experience smooth and easy.
- Mixing Bowl: To combine the meatloaf ingredients effortlessly.
- Baking Sheet: Lined with foil for quick cleanup.
- Knife and Grater: Perfect for cubing and shredding your cheese.
How to Make Mexican Meatloaf?
Making meatloaf has never been more fun or flavorful!
Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover a baking sheet with aluminum foil to minimize cleaning later. Chop 6 oz of cheddar into cubes for the filling while grating 2 oz to sprinkle on top right before serving.
Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl, add ground beef, cubed cheddar, crushed tortilla chips, black beans, corn, eggs, taco seasoning, and ¾ cup salsa. Use your hands to gently mix it all together. Be careful not to overwork the meat – this keeps your loaf light and tender.
Form It Like a Pro
Transfer the mix to your lined baking sheet. Shape it into a loaf around 12 inches long and 6 inches wide. Don’t stress about perfection – just make it compact enough to hold its shape during baking.
Into the Oven
Bake your meatloaf for about 55 minutes. Then, remove it from the oven, spread the remaining salsa across the top, and sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over it. Return to the oven for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the loaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
Rest, Slice, and Serve
Allow your meatloaf to rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps seal in the juices and makes slicing easier. Slice into thick portions, top with your favorite garnishes, and enjoy the cheesy Tex-Mex goodness.
Personal Tips for the Perfect Loaf
These tried-and-true tips helped me achieve optimal results!
- Go Fresh: Fresh salsa and high-quality cheese make all the difference in flavor.
- Be Gentle: Try not to overmix the meat mixture to avoid a dense loaf.
- Always Rest: Resting your meatloaf after baking ensures juicy, clean slices.
How to Plate and Serve Mexican Meatloaf?
Add some flair to your presentation with colorful toppings and sides.
Arrange slices of your cheesy meatloaf on a serving plate and decorate with toppings like fresh avocado slices, dollops of sour cream, and sprinkles of diced cilantro. Pair it with a tangy green salad, roasted veggies, or a side of creamy guacamole and chips for the ultimate Tex-Mex meal.
Nutritional Facts You Should Know
Each serving offers bold flavors and energy to fuel your day.
- Calories: 486
- Protein: 29g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fat: 29g
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Here’s how to enjoy your meatloaf even after dinner’s over.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the meatloaf a day early and refrigerate it. Bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Store Leftovers: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They reheat well in both the oven and microwave.
- Freeze It: Slice the meatloaf and freeze portions individually for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight when ready to reheat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
Mexican Meatloaf mixes convenience and vibrant flavors in one satisfying dish.
- Big Bold Flavors: Salsa, taco seasoning, and cheese make every bite a joy.
- Customizable Fun: Switch ingredients to suit your diet or preferences.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults love topping and eating this together.
- Simple Yet Impressive: Easy to make but looks worthy of a dinner party.
- Fantastic Leftovers: Just as delicious reheated, making meal prep easy.
Mexican Meatloaf truly puts a Tex-Mex spin on a beloved classic. It’s flavorful, fuss-free, and a surefire crowd-pleaser. Try it once, and I bet it will join your favorite recipes list in no time!
Mexican Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients
Cheese
- 6 oz cubed cheddar cheese
- 2 oz shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Meat & Binding
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef 85% lean recommended
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ¼ cups crushed tortilla chips
Add-ins
- 1 cup black beans rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn frozen or canned
Seasoning & Sauce
- 1 cup salsa divided (¾ cup for the meatloaf, ¼ cup for topping)
- 1 packet taco seasoning about 1 oz
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover a baking sheet with aluminum foil to minimize cleaning later. Chop 6 oz of cheddar into cubes for the filling while grating 2 oz to sprinkle on top right before serving.
- In a large mixing bowl, add ground beef, cubed cheddar, crushed tortilla chips, black beans, corn, eggs, taco seasoning, and ¾ cup salsa. Use your hands to gently mix it all together. Be careful not to overwork the meat – this keeps your loaf light and tender.
- Transfer the mix to your lined baking sheet. Shape it into a loaf around 12 inches long and 6 inches wide. Don’t stress about perfection – just make it compact enough to hold its shape during baking.
- Bake your meatloaf for about 55 minutes. Then, remove it from the oven, spread the remaining salsa across the top, and sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over it. Return to the oven for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the loaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
- Allow your meatloaf to rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps seal in the juices and makes slicing easier. Slice into thick portions, top with your favorite garnishes, and enjoy the cheesy Tex-Mex goodness.
Notes
- Low-Carb Option: Use crushed pork rinds or almond flour in place of tortilla chips.
- Vegetarian Swap: Use lentils and finely chopped mushrooms instead of ground beef.
- Spice It Up: Add jalapeños or hot salsa for extra heat.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the loaf a day in advance and refrigerate before baking.
