Tamale Meat Loaf
A hearty meatloaf with a tamale twist, featuring savory beef, cornmeal, and chili flavors. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings seeking comfort food with a kick.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brown ground beef, chopped onions, and minced garlic in a large frying pan.
- Drain off any fat from the meat mixture.
- Add canned tomatoes and green chilies and creamed corn, then bring to a boil.
- Remove from heat and stir in cornmeal, oregano, milk, cayenne pepper, beaten eggs, and salt.
- Mix well and pour the mixture into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until the meatloaf is firm.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve with salsa on the side.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some shredded cheese or chopped bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Additionally, using a low-sodium canned tomato option can help control the saltiness. Serve with a side of fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.
Serving Suggestions
This Tamale Meat Loaf pairs beautifully with salsa on the side for a zesty kick. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a comforting touch, you might also enjoy it with mashed potatoes or cornbread, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
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. Heat on medium power until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes. You can also reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tamale Meat Loaf contains roughly 970 calories, with 28g protein, 211g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (342% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (193% of the Daily Value), and iron (177% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 862mg per serving (37% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before putting it in the oven.
What can I use instead of creamed corn?
If you don't have creamed corn, you can blend regular corn kernels with a bit of cream or milk until smooth, or use a combination of corn and a small amount of sour cream to achieve a similar consistency.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
To check if the meatloaf is cooked through, insert a meat thermometer into the center; it should register at least 160°F (71°C). Alternatively, you can cut into the middle to ensure there is no pink remaining and the juices run clear.
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).