This Mexican Meatloaf is a fun twist on the classic! It’s packed with flavorful spices, ground beef, and even a hint of cheese. You won’t be able to resist a second slice!
Honestly, the spicy kick makes this meatloaf so exciting. Serve it with some salsa on top, and you’ll feel like you’re celebrating Cinco de Mayo every day! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for a juicy meatloaf. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken will work. Just remember to manage moisture, since lean meats can be drier.
Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs are great for binding. If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its robust flavor! If you’re open to alternatives, try Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for an extra kick!
Salsa: You can use any salsa you have on hand, but fresh salsa or homemade is always a nice touch. To avoid spice, look for mild varieties.
Cilantro: This adds freshness, but if you’re not a fan, try parsley instead. It’s not the same but still offers a nice herbaceous note.
How Do I Ensure My Meatloaf Stays Moist and Flavorful?
Keeping your meatloaf moist can be tricky. Start by mixing ingredients gently; overmixing can lead to a dense loaf. Adding a bit of milk and eggs helps retain moisture. Try this:
- Don’t skip the cheese—it melts and adds moisture!
- Cover the loaf with foil during the first half of baking. This prevents excessive browning while keeping steam in.
- After baking, let it rest. This allows juices to redistribute for a juicier slice.
Follow these tips, and you’ll end up with a deliciously moist Mexican Meatloaf! Enjoy!
How to Make Mexican Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1-2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for the center)
- 1 cup salsa or enchilada sauce (for topping)
- Sour cream (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Total time for this Mexican Meatloaf is about 75-90 minutes. This includes 15 minutes for prep and up to 75 minutes for baking. Letting it rest for 10 minutes before slicing also helps keep it juicy and flavorful!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a loaf pan to help the meatloaf come out easily after baking.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently with your hands or a spoon until it’s just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
3. Add Binding Ingredients:
Add the eggs and milk to the meat mixture. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined. This will help bind the ingredients and keep your meatloaf moist.
4. Layering the Meatloaf:
Spread half of the meat mixture evenly in the greased loaf pan, pressing it gently to form an even base. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly on top of this layer. This is where the cheesy goodness comes in! Finally, cover the cheese layer with the remaining meat mixture, pressing down gently to seal the cheese inside.
5. Top It Off:
Spread the salsa or enchilada sauce over the top of the meatloaf. This adds a nice flavor and keeps it moist while baking.
6. Bake:
Put the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60 to 75 minutes or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check.
7. Rest and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices settle. When ready, slice it and serve topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Enjoy this cheesy, flavorful dish with a side of rice, beans, or a fresh salad!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just make sure to add a little extra seasoning and perhaps a bit more moisture to prevent it from drying out.
How Can I Make This Meatloaf Spicier?
If you like a little extra heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. You can also use spicy salsa instead of mild for the topping!
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes! You can freeze slices of cooked meatloaf. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Can I Serve with Mexican Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with rice, beans, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with tortilla chips and extra salsa on the side for a festive touch!
