Description

Zesty Mexican Taco Meatloaf is a taco-seasoned meatloaf bursting with bold spices, melty cheese, and just the right amount of heat. Topped with salsa and served with your favorite Tex-Mex sides, this is a crowd-pleaser that makes dinner exciting again.

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ lbs ground beef or ground turkey
1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade)
1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese (or cheddar/Monterey Jack)
1 cup crushed tortilla chips
¾ cup salsa (plus more for topping)
2 eggs
1 tbsp chopped cilantro (optional)
½ cup diced onions (optional)
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt & pepper to taste
Toppings: extra cheese, jalapeño slices, chopped green onions

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment.
In a large bowl, combine ground meat, taco seasoning, crushed tortilla chips, salsa, eggs, cheese, garlic powder, onions (if using), cilantro, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix just until combined—don’t overmix!
Form the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan. Top with additional salsa and cover loosely with foil.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, then remove foil and top with more cheese. Bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to help it set and stay juicy.

Notes

Don’t overmix the meat—keep it tender. Use lean meat since the salsa adds moisture. Rest before slicing to avoid crumbling. This is excellent for taco bowls or sandwiches the next day. Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baked
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 350
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 650mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: meatloaf, taco, tex-mex, dinner, comfort food