Mexican Taco Meatloaf
Ingredients
1 ½ pounds ground beef
1 cup crushed tortilla chips or plain breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
½ cup milk
1 small onion finely diced
2 cloves garlic minced
1 packet about 1 oz taco seasoning
½ cup chunky salsa
½ cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro optional
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Topping
⅓ cup salsa
½ cup shredded cheese
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed tortilla chips, eggs, milk, diced onion, garlic, taco seasoning, salsa, cheese, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
Use clean hands or a spoon to mix everything gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it into the prepared pan or onto the baking sheet.
Spread ⅓ cup salsa evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Remove from the oven, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top, and return to the oven for 5 minutes until melted.
Let the meatloaf rest for 8–10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold its shape.