Mexican Taco Meatloaf (Print Version)

Ingredients:

01 - 2 pounds ground beef, 80% lean.
02 - 1 ½ cups corn tortilla chips, crushed.
03 - 1 small yellow onion, finely diced.
04 - 1 green bell pepper, finely diced.
05 - 2 large eggs, whisked.
06 - 1 (10 oz.) can Rotel tomatoes.
07 - 4 oz. canned corn, drained.
08 - 1 packet taco seasoning or 3 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning.
09 - 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese, divided.
10 - ⅓ cup red taco sauce (mild or medium), optional.
11 - 2 tablespoons cilantro or parsley, for garnish.

Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, crushed tortilla chips, onion, bell pepper, whisked eggs, Rotel tomatoes, corn, taco seasoning, and 1 cup of the shredded cheese. Mix gently just enough to combine.
03 - Transfer the meatloaf mixture into a 9x5-inch loaf pan lined with parchment paper. Shape into a loaf, making sure to create a small well around the edges for fat to drain off.
04 - Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes.
05 - Remove from the oven and top with red taco sauce and the remaining ½ cup of cheese.
06 - Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
07 - Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
08 - Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley.

Notes:

01 - A flavorful twist on classic meatloaf, infused with Mexican spices and ingredients. Perfect for a family dinner.