Delicious Meat Loaf(Salpicon Al Queso)
A savory meat loaf with melted Cheddar, seasoned bread crumbs, and a flavorful onion topping, perfect for hearty family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 slice white bread ⓘ
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon oil ⓘ
- 1 medium onion ⓘ
- 1 large clove garlic
- 2 pounds lean ground chuck ⓘ
- 2 large eggs ⓘ
- 3 tablespoons tomato sauce ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon hot pepper sauce ⓘ
- 1 cup diced Cheddar cheese ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon minced parsley ⓘ
- 1 scant teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1/2 cup seasoned bread crumbs ⓘ
- additional bread crumbs for coating ⓘ
Instructions
- Place bread in small dish and add hot evaporated milk.
- Use a fork to crumble soaked bread and set aside.
- Heat oil in a medium nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until tender, about 5 minutes, stirring often.
- Place ground meat in a large mixing bowl.
- Add sautéed onion mixture to the meat but do not mix.
- Froth egg yolks with a fork and add to the meat along with tomato sauce, hot pepper sauce, cheese, parsley, salt, and 2 tablespoons seasoned bread crumbs.
- Use wooden spoons to mix lightly and thoroughly.
- Add the soaked bread and mix again.
- Whip egg whites until soft peaks form.
- Fold egg whites into the meat mixture gently.
- Place a long piece of wax paper on a work surface and spread remaining bread crumbs down the middle.
- Place the meat mixture on the crumbs and gently mold into a loaf about 14 x 4 inches.
- Do not handle the meat too much or press the mixture firmly.
- Pull up the sides of the paper to coat the meat loaf with crumbs.
- Gently roll the meat loaf onto a greased pan, placing at an angle if necessary to fit.
- Sprinkle any remaining crumbs evenly over the surface.
- Bake on the center rack of a 325°F oven, uncovered, for 30 minutes.
- Pour Onion Topping over the meat loaf.
- Bake for an additional 40 minutes, basting occasionally.
- Serve hot, sliced into portions.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter meat loaf, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of lean ground chuck. You can also substitute the Cheddar cheese with a lower-fat option or a different cheese like mozzarella. If you prefer a spicier kick, add more hot pepper sauce to taste. To enhance the flavor, try incorporating herbs like oregano or thyme. Remember, do not overmix the meat to keep the loaf tender.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat loaf sliced with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a classic meal. It also pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or roasted root vegetables. For a comforting twist, try serving it with a dollop of ketchup or barbecue sauce on the side. For a lighter option, consider a refreshing Cottage Cheese Fruit Salad as a side dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes for a crispy exterior.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Delicious Meat Loaf(Salpicon Al Queso) contains roughly 792 calories, with 29g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (110% of the Daily Value), protein (57% of the Daily Value), and potassium (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1565mg per serving (68% 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 meat loaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance. Simply cover it tightly and refrigerate until you are ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can also freeze the uncooked meat loaf for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
What can I use instead of evaporated milk?
If you don't have evaporated milk on hand, you can substitute with a mix of regular milk and heavy cream, using a 1:1 ratio. Alternatively, non-dairy options like almond milk or soy milk can work, but the flavor and creaminess may differ slightly. Adjust seasoning accordingly to maintain the desired taste.
How do I know when the meat loaf is done?
The meat loaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Additionally, the outside should be nicely browned, and juices should run clear when you cut into it. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing for easier serving.
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).