Southwestern Meat Loaf
A flavorful southwestern meat loaf packed with spicy tomatoes, green chilies, and chili powder, perfect for comforting dinners and gatherings with a zesty kick.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Combine ground sirloin, bread crumbs, egg, Ro-Tel diced tomatoes & green chilies, chopped onion, chopped green chilies, chili powder, black pepper, and chili sauce in a bowl.
- Spread the mixture into an ungreased loaf pan.
- Bake for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moist meatloaf, consider adding grated carrots or zucchini to the mixture. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can substitute the chili powder with chipotle powder. Make sure to let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes after baking before slicing to ensure it holds its shape. Pairing it with a side of That'S It Salad can add a refreshing crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This Southwestern Meat Loaf is great served with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a hearty meal. For a lighter option, consider a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh salad. You can also drizzle extra chili sauce on top for added flavor. It pairs well with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the juices.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a microwave-safe dish, covering it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southwestern Meat Loaf contains roughly 609 calories, with 15g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (93% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and iron (39% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1871mg per serving (81% 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 a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just be mindful that the cooking time may vary slightly, so ensure the meat reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this Southwestern Meat Loaf gluten-free, use gluten-free bread crumbs instead of Progresso bread crumbs. Additionally, check that your chili sauce and canned tomatoes are also gluten-free to ensure the entire dish meets dietary needs.
Can I freeze the meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven or microwave.
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).