Davie'S Mexican Meat Loaf
A hearty Mexican-inspired meatloaf layered with tortillas and cheese, bursting with savory flavors from beef, chiles, and rich sauces, perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground lean beef in a skillet.
- Add the medium taco sauce, cream of mushroom soup, chicken rice soup, chopped green chilies, tomato paste, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to the beef.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for a few minutes.
- Layer the beef mixture and soft cornmeal tortillas in a casserole dish.
- Top the layered casserole with grated sharp Cheddar cheese.
- Cover the casserole with a lid or foil and bake in a 350°F oven for 30 to 40 minutes.
- Serve hot directly from the casserole.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can substitute the taco sauce with homemade salsa for a fresher taste. If you prefer a spicier kick, add jalapeños or extra chili powder. Using whole grain tortillas can enhance the dish's texture while making it healthier. Make sure to drain excess liquid from canned ingredients to avoid a soggy casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Mexican Meat Loaf hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or avocado slices for an extra layer of flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider serving with Susie'S Soft Chicken Tacos on the side for variety. A dollop of sour cream can also enhance the dish's richness.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for 2-3 minutes. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Davie'S Mexican Meat Loaf contains roughly 693 calories, with 36g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (72% of the Daily Value), calcium (45% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2480mg per serving (108% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, simply layer it with the tortillas and cheese, then bake as directed. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep.
What can I use instead of Cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for a different cheese option, Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese can work well, adding creaminess and a bit of spice. For a lower-fat option, you can use reduced-fat cheese without compromising too much on flavor.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, ensuring it's heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).