Can I make this meatloaf without the loaf pan?

Absolutely! You can form the meat mixture into a freestanding loaf on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. The cooking time might be slightly shorter, so keep an eye on it and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

How can I ensure my meatloaf isn't dry?

Don't overcook it! Use a meat thermometer to cook to exactly 160°F. The salsa in this recipe adds moisture, but if you're concerned, you could add 1/4 cup of shredded zucchini or 2 tablespoons of tomato paste to the mixture.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! A mixture of beef and pork works wonderfully, or try ground turkey for a lighter option. If using lean meats like turkey, consider adding a tablespoon or two of olive oil to keep it moist.

What if I don't have all the spices listed?

If you have taco seasoning on hand, you can substitute about 2 tablespoons of it for the individual spices (cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder) in the meat mixture.

Tex-Mex Meatloaf Recipe

Name: Tex-Mex Meatloaf Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 2 lbs ground beef; 2 eggs; 1 tablespoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup seasoned bread crumbs; 1 teaspoon dried onion; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 3/4 cup chunky salsa; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1/4 teaspoon chili powder; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or cilantro; 3/4 cup ketchup; 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; Pinch chili powder; 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 bell pepper, seeds removed and sliced into rings

Description

Experience the flavors of the Southwest with this Tex-Mex Meatloaf. Packed with bold spices, fresh herbs, and a tangy glaze, this dish takes the traditional meatloaf to a whole new level. Perfect as a main-course, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Meatloaf

2 lbs ground beef
2 eggs
1 tablespoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup seasoned bread crumbs
1 teaspoon dried onion
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
3/4 cup chunky salsa
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or cilantro

For the Glaze

3/4 cup ketchup
1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
Pinch chili powder
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1 bell pepper, seeds removed and sliced into rings

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Instructions

Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
Preheat your oven to 375˚F. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, salt, black pepper, seasoned bread crumbs, dried onion, onion powder, garlic powder, chunky salsa, cumin, chili powder, and fresh parsley or cilantro. Mix thoroughly until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into an 8″x5″ loaf pan.
Make the Glaze
In a separate bowl, whisk together the ketchup, light brown sugar, soy sauce, chili powder, and ground cumin. This glaze will give the meatloaf a tangy and slightly sweet finish.
Glaze and Bake
Spread half of the prepared glaze over the top of the meatloaf. Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
Add Bell Pepper Topping
Carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven and arrange the sliced bell pepper rings on top of the loaf. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Rest and Serve
Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This will help retain its juices and make slicing easier. Serve warm and enjoy.

Notes

If you prefer a spicier meatloaf, consider using hot salsa or adding a pinch more chili powder to the meat mixture.
Using fresh herbs like cilantro instead of parsley offers a more authentic Tex-Mex flavor.
Swap out ground beef for a mix of ground pork and beef for a richer texture.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 350
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 95mg