Taco Meatloaf is a zesty twist on a classic comfort food, blending the bold flavors of tacos with the heartiness of a meatloaf. Packed with spices, cheese, and a hint of salsa, this dish is perfect for a family dinner or an exciting addition to your weekly meal plan. It’s everything you love about tacos, in a comforting loaf form!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Full of Flavor: Infused with taco seasoning, salsa, and cheese for a Tex-Mex kick.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick preparation make this a weeknight favorite.
- Customizable: Add your favorite taco toppings or mix-ins for a personalized touch.
- Meal Prep-Friendly: Make it ahead and reheat for an easy meal.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Combines two favorites—tacos and meatloaf—into one delicious dish.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and ground pork)
- Taco seasoning
- Breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips
- Egg
- Salsa
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Onion (finely diced)
- Garlic (minced)
- Optional topping: Extra salsa or taco sauce
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, taco seasoning, breadcrumbs or tortilla chips, egg, salsa, cheese, onion, and garlic. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into an even loaf.
- Add Topping: Spread a layer of extra salsa or taco sauce over the top of the loaf for added flavor.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45–55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Rest: Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Serve: Slice and serve with your favorite taco-inspired sides, like Mexican rice or a salad.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Serves 6–8.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture.
- Low-Carb Option: Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs.
- Vegetarian: Substitute ground meat with plant-based alternatives like lentils or textured vegetable protein (TVP).
- Cheese Lovers: Stuff the center of the meatloaf with extra cheese for a gooey surprise.
- Taco Toppings: Garnish slices with sour cream, guacamole, or chopped cilantro before serving.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the cooked or uncooked meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating or baking.
- Reheating: Reheat slices in the microwave or cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
FAQs
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well for a lighter version of this recipe.
2. Can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips.
3. What type of salsa works best?
Use a chunky, mild or medium salsa for the best texture and flavor.
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
5. How can I ensure my meatloaf stays moist?
Do not overmix the ingredients, and allow the meatloaf to rest after baking to retain its juices.
6. Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
Certainly! Finely diced bell peppers or grated zucchini make great additions.
7. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake two loaves or one larger loaf, adjusting the baking time as needed.
8. What sides go well with taco meatloaf?
Mexican rice, refried beans, a crisp salad, or tortilla chips with guacamole are excellent pairings.
9. Can I use pre-packaged taco seasoning?
Yes, pre-packaged taco seasoning works perfectly, or you can make your own blend.
10. Can I use cheese other than cheddar?
Yes, Monterey Jack, Colby, or Pepper Jack are delicious alternatives.
Conclusion
Taco Meatloaf is a creative and flavorful spin on traditional meatloaf, making it a hit for both taco lovers and comfort food enthusiasts. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or as a make-ahead meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Serve it with your favorite taco-inspired sides and enjoy the best of both worlds in every bite!
Print
Taco Meatloaf
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
This taco meatloaf takes classic comfort food to the next level with bold Mexican flavors. Juicy ground beef is mixed with taco spices, cheese, and salsa, then baked to perfection. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for a fun and flavorful twist on traditional meatloaf!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
- 1 pound ground pork or ground turkey (optional, for a mix)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
- 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips (or breadcrumbs)
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for added moisture)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Topping:
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease a loaf pan.
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork or turkey (if using), taco seasoning, crushed tortilla chips, 1 cup of shredded cheese, 1/2 cup salsa, diced onion, cilantro (if using), eggs, sour cream (optional), salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Form the Meatloaf: Shape the meat mixture into a loaf on the prepared baking sheet or press it into a greased loaf pan.
- Add Topping: Spread 1/2 cup salsa over the top of the meatloaf, then sprinkle with 1/2 cup shredded cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for beef or 165°F (74°C) for turkey or pork.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with additional toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or chopped cilantro.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, use medium or hot salsa and add diced jalapeños to the meat mixture.
- Leftovers can be used in tacos or burritos!
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.