Savory & Simple Mexican Meatloaf: A Tex-Mex Twist on a Classic

Craving a dinner that’s both comforting and exciting? Look no further than Mexican Meatloaf! This isn’t your grandma’s meatloaf recipe; we’re taking this classic dish on a flavorful detour south of the border. Imagine the hearty satisfaction of meatloaf combined with the zesty, vibrant tastes of Tex-Mex cuisine. This recipe delivers just that, infusing ground beef with taco seasoning, green chilies, and salsa for a truly unforgettable meal. And the secret ingredient? Crushed tortilla chips replace traditional breadcrumbs, adding a delightful crunch and authentic Tex-Mex touch.

Perfect for busy weeknights when time is short but flavor is essential, this mexican meatloaf recipe is incredibly easy to prepare. Simply mix the ingredients, shape it, bake it, and then top it with extra salsa and fresh green onions for a vibrant finish. No complicated steps or fancy techniques are needed – just straightforward cooking that results in a deeply satisfying dish. Serve it as a standalone star, or alongside rice, a refreshing salad, or even more tortilla chips for scooping up every last bite.

If you’re a fan of bold flavors and the comforting familiarity of meatloaf, this Mexican Meatloaf is destined to become a new staple in your dinner rotation. Get ready to experience a delicious fusion of classic comfort food and vibrant Tex-Mex zest!

Why This Mexican Meatloaf Recipe is a Must-Try

Explosion of Tex-Mex Flavor: Forget bland meatloaf! Taco seasoning, zesty green chilies, and flavorful salsa create a vibrant and delicious taste profile that will awaken your taste buds.
Goodbye Breadcrumbs, Hello Tortilla Chips: Crushed tortilla chips not only provide a unique texture but also enhance the Tex-Mex essence and offer a gluten-friendly alternative (just ensure you use certified gluten-free chips!).
Effortless Weeknight Meal: This recipe is designed for ease and speed. Minimal prep time and straightforward baking instructions make it ideal for even the busiest cooks.
Meal Prep Champion: Leftovers are not just good; they’re fantastic! Mexican Meatloaf transforms beautifully into fillings for tacos, burritos, or hearty sandwiches the next day.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: A fun and unexpected twist on traditional meatloaf that appeals to all ages, even those picky eaters in your family will be asking for seconds.
Versatile Serving Options: From classic rice and beans to fresh salads or crunchy tortilla chips, this meatloaf pairs wonderfully with a wide array of side dishes, making it adaptable to your preferences and pantry staples.

Ingredients for Your Mexican Meatloaf

For the complete recipe with detailed measurements and printable instructions, please scroll down to the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef (90/10 or leaner) to minimize grease and maintain a moist, not oily, meatloaf.
Tortilla Chips: The star ingredient for texture and flavor! Crushed tortilla chips replace breadcrumbs, adding a distinctive Tex-Mex crunch. Corn chips can also be substituted if you prefer.
Cheddar Cheese: Freshly shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully into the meatloaf, adding a creamy, cheesy layer. While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, shredding your own from a block ensures better melting and avoids added preservatives. Mild, medium, or sharp cheddar all work wonderfully – choose your favorite!
Salsa: Use your go-to salsa for this recipe! It infuses moisture and flavor into the meatloaf mixture and adds a vibrant topping. Homemade garden salsa is an excellent choice if you have it on hand.
Eggs: The essential binder! Eggs provide richness, moisture, and crucial binding power, holding all the ingredients together for a perfectly formed meatloaf.
Taco Seasoning: A packet of store-bought taco seasoning offers a convenient flavor boost. Alternatively, about two tablespoons of homemade taco seasoning will work perfectly for a more customized flavor profile.
Green Chilies: Diced green chilies introduce a mild kick of heat and authentic Tex-Mex flavor. Mild green chilies are recommended for family-friendly meals, while medium can be used for those who prefer a bit more spice.
Green Onions: Fresh green onions, added right before serving, provide a bright, fresh flavor and a touch of visual appeal.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mexican Meatloaf

Step One: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step Two: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed tortilla chips, shredded cheddar cheese, ⅔ cup of salsa, eggs, taco seasoning, and diced green chilies.

Mixing ingredients for Mexican Meatloaf in a bowl.

Using clean hands, thoroughly mix all the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tougher meatloaf.

Step Three: Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, gently pressing it in to create an even shape. Place the loaf pan on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer inserted into the center of the meatloaf.
Step Four: Remove the baked meatloaf from the oven and let it rest in the pan for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful meatloaf. Carefully flip the meatloaf onto a serving platter. Spread the remaining ½ cup of salsa evenly over the top of the meatloaf and sprinkle with chopped green onions. Serve hot and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions for Mexican Meatloaf

Mexican Meatloaf is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some delicious ideas to create a complete and satisfying meal:

Mexican Rice: A classic and essential side dish for any Tex-Mex meal. Mexican rice perfectly complements the flavors of the meatloaf and is excellent for soaking up any extra salsa.
Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add another layer of Tex-Mex comfort to your plate. Consider black beans for a slightly different flavor profile. Slow cooker black beans are a fantastic option for ease and rich flavor.
Roasted or Grilled Vegetables: Balance the richness of the meatloaf with a side of healthy roasted or grilled vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, onions, or corn on the cob are all excellent choices. Southern-style green beans also offer a comforting and flavorful vegetable side.
Tortilla Chips and Guacamole: For a true Tex-Mex experience, serve with a side of crunchy tortilla chips and creamy guacamole. This is perfect for scooping up bites of meatloaf and adding extra texture to your meal.
Simple Green Salad: A light and fresh green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty meatloaf. A simple vinaigrette dressing complements the Tex-Mex flavors without overpowering them.
Mashed Potatoes with a Southwestern Twist: Elevate classic mashed potatoes by adding a touch of taco seasoning or roasted garlic for a flavorful side dish that complements the meatloaf beautifully. Mashed potato casserole is a hearty and comforting option as well.
Cornbread: Slightly sweet and buttery cornbread offers a delightful contrast to the savory and slightly spicy meatloaf.
Mac and Cheese: For a kid-friendly and ultimate comfort food pairing, serve Mexican Meatloaf with creamy mac and cheese. Baked macaroni and cheese is an especially delicious and crowd-pleasing choice.

Variations and Substitutions to Customize Your Meatloaf

Protein Swap: For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for ground beef. A mixture of ground beef and pork can also be used for a richer flavor.
Spice it Up: Increase the heat by adding finely chopped jalapeños, using a spicier salsa, or incorporating a dash of your favorite hot sauce into the meatloaf mixture.
Milder Flavor: For a milder version, use mild taco seasoning and mild salsa, and consider omitting the green chilies altogether.
Cheese Variations: While cheddar is classic, explore other cheese options like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack for extra spice, or a pre-shredded Mexican cheese blend for a variety of flavors.
Gluten-Free Meatloaf: Ensure the recipe is completely gluten-free by using certified gluten-free tortilla chips.
Low-Carb Option: For a keto-friendly or low-carb alternative, replace the tortilla chips with crushed pork rinds or almond flour as a binder.
Vegetable Boost: Finely diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms can be mixed into the meatloaf for added texture, flavor, and nutritional value.
BBQ Fusion: For a smoky-sweet twist, blend a little BBQ sauce with the salsa for a unique topping and flavor profile.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover Mexican Meatloaf in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer Storage: For longer storage, allow the meatloaf to cool completely. Wrap the whole meatloaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen meatloaf will keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating Methods:

Oven Reheating: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatloaf in an oven-safe dish and warm for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
Microwave Reheating: For individual slices, microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking for even heating.

Expert Recipe Tips and Tricks for Perfect Mexican Meatloaf

Mix with Your Hands: While it might be a little messy, using your hands is the most effective way to evenly combine the ground beef and other ingredients. This gentle mixing helps maintain a light and tender texture and prevents overmixing.
Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can lead to a dense and tough final product. Mix just until all ingredients are combined.
Freshly Crushed Tortilla Chips are Best: For optimal texture, crush your own tortilla chips right before using them. A rolling pin or food processor makes quick work of this.
Rest Before Slicing: Allow the baked meatloaf to rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meatloaf, resulting in a more moist and flavorful slice.
Remove from Pan for Neat Slices: Carefully flip the meatloaf out of the loaf pan onto a serving platter before slicing. This makes it much easier to achieve clean, even slices without crumbling.
Check Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the center of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C). This guarantees it is safely cooked and juicy.
Make Ahead Option: Prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great time-saving tip for busy schedules.
Drain Excess Grease if Needed: If your meatloaf releases a significant amount of liquid during baking, carefully tilt the pan and drain off the excess grease to maintain the desired texture.
Customize Your Topping: While salsa is classic, experiment with other toppings! Enchilada sauce, warm queso, or even a drizzle of sour cream can add extra layers of flavor.
Leftover Meatloaf Tacos: Crumble leftover Mexican Meatloaf and use it as a flavorful filling for tacos! Simply warm it up and serve in tortillas with your favorite taco toppings like cheese, lettuce, and pico de gallo for an easy and delicious second meal.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moist Meatloaf

What is the Secret to a Moist Meatloaf?

The key to a moist meatloaf lies in incorporating sufficient moisture-rich ingredients such as eggs, salsa, and cheese. Equally important is avoiding overmixing the meat and allowing the meatloaf to rest after baking to lock in those precious juices.

Why Does My Meatloaf Crumble When I Cut It?

Meatloaf that falls apart when sliced often lacks sufficient binders like eggs and crushed tortilla chips. Overmixing or underbaking can also contribute to crumbling. Resting the meatloaf before slicing is essential for it to hold its shape better.

Is it Better to Cook Meatloaf at 350°F or 375°F?

Cooking meatloaf at 350°F (175°C) is generally recommended for even cooking and a juicy, tender texture. Higher temperatures like 375°F (190°C) can cause the meatloaf to dry out more quickly, especially if using leaner ground beef. A lower, slower bake at 350°F promotes a moist and evenly cooked meatloaf.

Can I Use Ground Beef with a Higher Fat Content?

Yes, you can use ground beef with a higher fat content for Mexican Meatloaf. However, be aware that it will release more grease into the pan during baking. To manage this, use a broiler pan or carefully drain off excess fat during baking to prevent a greasy final product. Leaner ground beef (90/10 or leaner) is a good choice for a moist meatloaf without excessive grease.

Can I Make Mexican Meatloaf in a Slow Cooker?

Absolutely! You can easily adapt this Mexican Meatloaf recipe for your slow cooker.

Step One: Follow the recipe instructions to combine all the meatloaf ingredients in a large bowl.
Step Two: Shape the meat mixture into a loaf that will fit comfortably in your slow cooker. You can line the slow cooker with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier removal later.
Step Three: Place the shaped meatloaf into the slow cooker. Spread ½ cup of salsa evenly over the top.
Step Four: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center registers 160°F (71°C).

More Delicious Mexican Inspired Recipes

If you enjoyed this Mexican Meatloaf, you might also love these other Tex-Mex inspired recipes:

Dill Pickle Roast Beef

Follow me on Instagram @simplystacieblog, Facebook at Simply Stacie, TikTok @simplystacierecipes or Pinterest at @simplystacie and let me know how you liked this recipe and my other recipes.

Rate this Recipe

4.51 from 73 votes

Mexican Meatloaf Recipe

Created by Stacie Vaughan

Servings: 6

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

This Easy Mexican Meatloaf recipe is packed with bold Tex-Mex flavors, crushed tortilla chips, and melty cheese. A simple, family-friendly dinner ready in no time!

Rate this Recipe

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Save Saved!

Prevent your screen from going dark

SAVE THIS RECIPE!

Enter your email and we’ll send this recipe to your inbox.

Ingredients

2 lb extra lean ground beef
1 ½ cup crushed tortilla chips
1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
⅔ cup salsa + ½ cup salsa
2 large eggs
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can green chilies 127ml can
3 green onions chopped

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a loaf pan with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, add ground beef, tortillas, cheese, ⅔ cup salsa, eggs, taco seasoning and green chilies. With your clean hands, combine the mixture until everything is mixed together well.
Add meat to a loaf pan. Place on a baking sheet and put in the oven for 1 to 1 hour 10 minutes, or until meat is cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check.
Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before flipping over onto a serving platter. Spread ½ cup salsa and green onions on top. Serve hot.

Video

Shop the recommended products Plus browse all of my favorite products I use to create easy everyday recipes!

Save this recipe for later! Click the heart to save it to your recipe box. Recipe saved! Check your recipe box for all your saved recipes.

Nutrition

The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.

Course: Main Dishes

Cuisine: Mexican

Keyword: beef, ground beef, meatloaf

Did you make this recipe?

I’d love to see it! Make sure to share it on your favorite social platform.

Share on Facebook Pin Recipe Rate this Recipe

Want Even More Recipes?

Join Moms Best Recipes to find more delicious family recipes.

The Best of Simply Stacie ebook cover.

free ebook!

The Best of Simply Stacie

When you subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates!