Rotel Meat Loaf
A hearty, flavorful meatloaf with diced tomatoes, green chiles, and melted Cheddar cheese, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings with bold, comforting tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Combine ground beef, torn bread pieces, egg, Rotel tomatoes and green chiles, chopped onion, chili powder, black pepper, and chili sauce; mix well.
- Spread the mixture into a loaf pan.
- Bake for 1 hour.
- Drain excess drippings from the meatloaf.
- Spoon chili sauce over the cooked meatloaf.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider incorporating a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce into the meat mixture. If you're out of Rotel, diced tomatoes with a pinch of chili powder can work as a substitute. To make it lighter, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Ensure the bread is torn into small pieces to help bind the loaf effectively.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Rotel meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. For a comforting touch, pair it with homemade garlic bread. This dish also pairs beautifully with J B'S Mighty Fine Chili for a hearty dinner experience. Consider drizzling more chili sauce on individual servings for an extra kick.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10-15 minutes, which helps retain the meatloaf's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rotel Meat Loaf contains roughly 384 calories, with 15g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (64% of the Daily Value), iron (45% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. It also contributes 18g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Cheddar cheese is delicious on top, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even mozzarella for a milder flavor. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will slightly alter the final taste and texture of the meatloaf.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The best way to check if the meatloaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should read 160 degrees Fahrenheit when fully cooked. Additionally, the meatloaf should be firm to the touch and have no pink in the center. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
Can I freeze the meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf either before or after baking. If freezing before, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. If already cooked, slice it and freeze individual portions for easy reheating later.
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).