Mexican Meatloaf

Mexican Meatloaf Recipe - Ground Beef, Tomatoes, Bread Crumbs and Cheddar

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

Mexican Meatloaf is a delicious twist on the classic meatloaf recipe, incorporating bold flavors and spices commonly found in Mexican cuisine. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a little heat and a lot of flavor in their meals.

History

The exact origins of Mexican Meatloaf are unclear, but it is believed to have been created as a fusion of traditional meatloaf recipes and Mexican ingredients. This dish has become a popular choice for those looking to spice up their dinner routine.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) of lean ground beef
10 oz (283 g) of canned tomatoes and green chilies
1.5 cups of soft bread crumbs
1 egg
3 tbsp of onion flakes
1.25 tbsp of salt
0.75 cup of grated cheddar cheese

How to prepare

In a bowl, combine beef, tomatoes and green chilies, bread crumbs, egg, onion flakes, and salt.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a shallow pan.
Bake at 375°F (191°C) for 1 hour.
Sprinkle cheese over the top.
Return the loaf to the oven until the cheese melts.

Variations

Add diced jalapenos for an extra kick of heat.
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
Top the meatloaf with salsa or avocado slices for added flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to thoroughly mix the ingredients together to ensure even distribution of flavors.

- Use lean ground beef to reduce the fat content of the dish.

- Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Serving Suggestions

Mexican Meatloaf pairs well with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the preferred cooking technique for Mexican Meatloaf, as it allows the flavors to meld together while the meat cooks through.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use crushed tortilla chips instead of bread crumbs for a Mexican twist.

- Substitute Monterey Jack cheese for cheddar for a milder flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Mexican Meatloaf can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the meatloaf and arrange it on a platter with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a colorful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Mexican Meatloaf pairs well with a glass of red wine, such as a Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Mexican Meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Mexican Meatloaf contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Mexican Meatloaf contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Mexican Meatloaf contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Mexican Meatloaf contains approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Mexican Meatloaf is a good source of iron, vitamin B12, and zinc.

Alergens

Mexican Meatloaf contains dairy (cheddar cheese) and eggs.

Summary

Mexican Meatloaf is a protein-rich dish that is moderate in carbohydrates and fats. It is a good source of essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Mexican Meatloaf is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is sure to become a new family favorite. With a blend of spices and ingredients, this dish offers a unique twist on a classic comfort food.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Mexican Meatloaf. It was a hot summer day and I was visiting my friend Maria in her small village in Mexico. Maria's abuela, or grandmother, was known far and wide for her delicious cooking. As soon as I walked into the kitchen, I was hit with the mouthwatering aroma of spices and herbs that filled the air. Abuela was busy at the stove, stirring a pot of simmering salsa and grilling up some juicy carne asada.

I watched in awe as she effortlessly moved around the kitchen, her hands working magic with every ingredient she touched. I knew right then and there that I had to learn her secrets to cooking such delicious food. As if she could read my mind, abuela beckoned me over and handed me a worn and tattered piece of paper. "This is my recipe for Mexican Meatloaf," she said with a smile. "It has been passed down in our family for generations. Take it and make it your own."

I held the recipe in my hands, feeling a sense of excitement and gratitude wash over me. I knew that this recipe was a treasure, a gift from a masterful cook who had spent a lifetime perfecting her craft. I vowed to honor abuela's legacy by learning how to make this Mexican Meatloaf with love and care.

Back home in my own kitchen, I gathered the ingredients listed on the recipe: ground beef, onions, garlic, bell peppers, tomatoes, jalapeños, breadcrumbs, eggs, and an array of spices that made my mouth water. I followed the instructions carefully, chopping and sautéing and mixing with precision. As the meatloaf baked in the oven, the delicious scent filled my house, bringing back memories of that hot summer day in Maria's village.

When the meatloaf was finally done, I couldn't wait to taste it. I cut a thick slice and took a bite, savoring the rich flavors and the perfect blend of spices. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before, a true masterpiece of Mexican cuisine. I knew that abuela's recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen, a dish that would bring joy and comfort to my family for years to come.

As time went on, I continued to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twists and variations to make it truly my own. Sometimes I would swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, or add extra vegetables like corn and black beans. Each time, the meatloaf turned out delicious, a testament to the power of abuela's recipe and the love and care that went into making it.

I shared the recipe with friends and family, who all raved about its mouthwatering taste and unique flavors. They couldn't believe that something so simple could be so incredibly delicious. I knew that I had struck gold with abuela's Mexican Meatloaf recipe, a secret weapon in my culinary arsenal that would never fail to impress.

Years passed, and I continued to make the meatloaf for special occasions and family gatherings. It became a tradition, a dish that everyone looked forward to with eager anticipation. I smiled knowing that abuela's legacy lived on through me, through the delicious food that I made with her recipe.

And so, as I sit here now, reminiscing about that fateful day in Maria's village, I am filled with gratitude for the gift that abuela gave me. Her recipe for Mexican Meatloaf has become a cherished part of my life, a symbol of the love and connection that food can bring. I will always treasure the memories of learning how to make this dish, and the joy it has brought to those I love.