Mexican Meat Loaf
Mexican Meat Loaf offers a flavorful twist on traditional meatloaf, combining ground meat with tomatoes, chilies, and cheese for a spicy, cheesy dish. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it pairs well with rice or vegetables and is sure to satisfy those craving bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground meat, tomatoes and green chilies, bread crumbs, egg, chopped onion, and salt in a bowl.
- Shape the mixture into a meat loaf and place it in a shallow baking pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 1 hour.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the meat loaf.
- Return to the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers or jalapeños to the meat mixture. If you're looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef. To boost nutrition, incorporate grated zucchini or carrots into the mixture. Serve with a side of salsa for extra zest, reminiscent of flavors found in other Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Mexican meatloaf with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with tortilla chips and your favorite salsa or guacamole, making it a great addition to a casual gathering. For a fun twist, consider serving slices in tortillas, similar to Mexican Roll-Ups.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the meatloaf to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For reheating, slice the meatloaf and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Meat Loaf contains roughly 763 calories, with 19g protein, 144g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (37% of the Daily Value), calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2113mg per serving (92% 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 freeze the Mexican meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf before or after baking. If freezing before baking, shape the loaf and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking as directed.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Shredded cheddar cheese is a popular choice for its melting qualities and flavor, but you can also use Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend for a different taste. For a spicier kick, consider using pepper jack cheese to complement the tomatoes and green chilies.
How can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure all other ingredients, including canned tomatoes and green chilies, are labeled gluten-free. This allows you to enjoy the dish without compromising dietary needs.
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).