Texas Style Meat Loaf
A hearty Texas-style meat loaf with bold flavors from Ro-Tel tomatoes, topped with cheese and tortilla chips, perfect for a comforting family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.
- Cook at 250°F for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
- Before the 2 hours are up, add tortilla chips and cheese on top.
- Put in broiler for about 6 to 8 minutes or until cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a juicier meatloaf, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or barbecue sauce to the mixture. If you don't have Ro-Tel tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chilies can work as a substitute. You can also use crushed crackers instead of bread for a different texture. Make sure to mix the ingredients gently to avoid a dense loaf, similar to tips found in Patsy'S Hearty Meat Loaf.
Serving Suggestions
This Texas Style Meat Loaf pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a hearty meal. You can also serve it with a side salad for a lighter option. Consider topping it with additional cheese or serving it with tortilla chips for a fun twist. For a comforting dish, browse more American recipes that include beef.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a microwave-safe dish, covering it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through, ensuring it doesn't dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Texas Style Meat Loaf contains roughly 846 calories, with 14g protein, 132g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 783mg per serving (34% 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 meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out. When ready to cook, simply transfer it to the baking dish and bake as directed.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the lean ground beef. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly, so check for doneness before serving.
Can I freeze meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked meatloaf mixture wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as usual for a quick meal.
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).