Mexicali Meat Loaf
A flavorful Mexican-inspired meat loaf with green chilies, Monterey Jack cheese, and spices, perfect for hearty family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef ⓘ
- 1 lb. mild pork sausage ⓘ
- 1 cup crushed plain pork rinds ⓘ
- 1 (4 1/2 oz.) can diced mild green chilies ⓘ
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped ⓘ
- 8 oz. Monterey Jack cheese, cubed or shredded
- 3/4 cup salsa ⓘ
- 1 egg ⓘ
- 2 or 3 cloves garlic, crushed ⓘ
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano ⓘ
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon salt ⓘ
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and knead thoroughly until well blended.
- Form the mixture into a loaf about 3 inches thick on a clean broiler rack.
- Bake for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or using spicy sausage. If you're looking for a lower-carb option, substitute the crushed pork rinds with almond flour. Ensure the meat mixture is kneaded well for a consistent texture, and if you prefer a moister loaf, add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Mexicali Meat Loaf with a side of refried beans or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Avocado Tostado Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier option, consider a side of Mexican rice or homemade salsa to enhance the flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexicali Meat Loaf contains roughly 480 calories, with 13g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (116% of the Daily Value), calcium (62% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1042mg per serving (45% 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 use ground turkey instead of beef and pork?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. However, be aware that turkey may yield a drier meatloaf, so consider adding extra moisture with ingredients like diced tomatoes or a splash of broth.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make the Mexicali Meat Loaf gluten-free, ensure that the salsa and any other processed ingredients are labeled gluten-free. The crushed pork rinds are naturally gluten-free, making them a great binder without compromising texture.
What can I serve with this meatloaf?
This meatloaf is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables. It also complements other Mexican recipes, such as Beef Fajitas or Super Skillet Nachos, for a themed dinner.
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).