Tex-mex Meatloaf

Tex-mex Meatloaf Recipe - Beef, Garlic, Cumin, Onions, Corn, Red Peppers & Cheddar

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tex-mex Meatloaf is a delicious twist on the classic meatloaf recipe, incorporating flavors inspired by Tex-Mex cuisine. This dish is packed with savory ground beef, zesty salsa, crunchy vegetables, and gooey cheese, making it a flavorful and satisfying meal for the whole family.

History

The origins of Tex-mex Meatloaf can be traced back to the fusion of traditional American meatloaf recipes with the bold and spicy flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine. This unique combination of ingredients and seasonings creates a dish that is both comforting and exciting, perfect for those who love a little kick in their meals.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) of lean ground beef
1 egg
0.33 cup of mild salsa
0.25 cup of seasoned dry bread crumbs
0.25 cup of chopped fresh coriander
1.5 tsp of minced garlic
0.5 tsp of cumin
0.75 cup of diced onions
0.5 cup of drained canned corn
0.5 cup of diced sweet red peppers
0.25 cup of shredded cheddar cheese

How to prepare

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
2. Spray an 8 x 4 inches loaf pan with cooking spray.
3. In a bowl, combine ground beef, egg, 0.33 cup of salsa, bread crumbs, coriander, garlic, and cumin.
4. On a 12 inches square piece of waxed paper, pat out the mixture into an 8 inches square.
5. For the filling, in a nonstick skillet sprayed with cooking spray, cook onions over medium heat for 5 minutes or until softened.
6. Stir in corn and cook for 5 to 8 minutes or until the corn begins to brown.
7. Stir in red peppers and cook for 3 minutes or until softened.
8. Spread the filling over the meatloaf and sprinkle with cheese.
9. Using the waxed paper as a guide, roll up the meatloaf and carefully place it in the loaf pan seam side down.
10. Spoon 0.25 cup of salsa over the top.
11. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until the meat is well cooked.
12. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a serving platter.
13. Slice and serve with extra salsa.

Variations

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef for a lighter version of the dish.
Add diced jalapenos or hot sauce to the meat mixture for an extra kick of heat.
Use different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or queso fresco, for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to thoroughly mix the ingredients for the meatloaf to ensure that all the flavors are evenly distributed.

- Use lean ground beef to reduce the fat content of the dish without sacrificing flavor.

- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together before slicing and serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Tex-mex Meatloaf with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Rolling the meatloaf with the filling inside creates a beautiful spiral effect when sliced.

- Baking the meatloaf in a loaf pan helps it retain its shape and ensures even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use panko breadcrumbs instead of seasoned dry breadcrumbs for a lighter texture.

- Swap out the cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or Colby Jack for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Tex-mex Meatloaf can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator before baking. Simply cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the Tex-mex Meatloaf into thick slices and arrange them on a platter with a drizzle of salsa and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Tex-mex Meatloaf with a cold beer, a glass of red wine, or a refreshing margarita for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Tex-mex Meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Tex-mex Meatloaf contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Tex-mex Meatloaf contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Tex-mex Meatloaf contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Tex-mex Meatloaf contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Tex-mex Meatloaf is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron, thanks to the inclusion of vegetables like red peppers and onions.

Alergens

Tex-mex Meatloaf contains eggs, dairy (cheese), and wheat (bread crumbs), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Tex-mex Meatloaf is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Tex-mex Meatloaf is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the classic comfort of meatloaf with the bold and spicy flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine. Packed with savory ground beef, zesty salsa, crunchy vegetables, and gooey cheese, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to make. I was flipping through an old cookbook that I had inherited from my own grandmother, and there it was: Tex-mex Meatloaf. The combination of classic meatloaf with a spicy Tex-mex twist was just too tempting to resist.

I decided to try my hand at making it for dinner that night, and I'm so glad I did. The flavors were incredible – the savory meatloaf mixed with the smoky chipotle peppers and tangy salsa created a dish that was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. It quickly became a family favorite, and I've been making it ever since.

But the story of how I learned to make Tex-mex Meatloaf goes back further than that cookbook. It actually starts with a trip I took to Texas many years ago. I had always been fascinated by Tex-mex cuisine, with its bold flavors and unique combinations of ingredients. So when I had the opportunity to visit the Lone Star State, I jumped at the chance.

During my time in Texas, I made it a point to try as many Tex-mex dishes as I could. From sizzling fajitas to spicy enchiladas, I sampled it all. But it was the meatloaf that really caught my attention. I had never seen anything like it before – a traditional meatloaf with a Tex-mex twist, filled with bold flavors and spices.

I knew I had to learn how to make it myself, so I set out to find the best Tex-mex Meatloaf recipe I could. I asked locals for their recommendations, scoured cookbooks, and even took a cooking class to learn the secrets of this delicious dish.

After much trial and error, I finally perfected my own version of Tex-mex Meatloaf. It's a dish that combines the best of both worlds – the comfort of classic meatloaf with the bold flavors of Tex-mex cuisine. And every time I make it, I'm transported back to that trip to Texas, where I fell in love with the food and the culture.

Over the years, I've shared my Tex-mex Meatloaf recipe with friends and family, passing down the tradition of this unique dish. It's a recipe that holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of my love for Tex-mex cuisine and the adventures that led me to discover it.

So the next time you're looking for a new twist on an old favorite, give Tex-mex Meatloaf a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows – maybe you'll create your own memories and stories to go along with it.