Imagine a dish that combines the hearty comfort of classic meatloaf with the bold, zesty flavors of your favorite tacos - and then takes it to the next level by stuffing it with gooey, melted cheese! This Cheese Stuffed Taco Meatloaf is not just a meal, it's a culinary adventure that will transform your dinner routine from ordinary to extraordinary. Perfect for family dinners, weekend gatherings, or when you're craving something uniquely delicious, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser that'll have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup salsa
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a standard 9x5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, taco seasoning, breadcrumbs, milk, and egg. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a large fork until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Divide the meat mixture into two equal portions. Press half of the meat mixture into the bottom of the prepared loaf pan, creating an even base layer.
- Spread the shredded cheese down the center of the meat layer, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent cheese from leaking during cooking.
- Carefully cover the cheese layer with the remaining meat mixture, sealing the edges and ensuring the cheese is completely enclosed.
- Spread salsa evenly over the top of the meatloaf, creating a flavorful glaze.
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Remove from oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes cutting easier.
- Slice into 1-inch thick portions and serve hot. Optional: Garnish with additional salsa, chopped cilantro, or sour cream.
Tips
- Use fresh ground beef with a moderate fat content (80/20 blend) for maximum flavor and juiciness.
- Mix ingredients gently to avoid overworking the meat, which can make the meatloaf tough.
- Let the meatloaf rest after cooking to ensure the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
- For a crispy top, consider broiling for 2-3 minutes after baking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F for food safety.
- Experiment with different cheese types like pepper jack or Mexican blend for varied flavor profiles.
- Prep ingredients ahead of time to make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 95mg
