Mexican Taco Meatloaf with Salsa and Corn

When I want to combine classic comfort food with bold, zesty flavors, this Mexican Taco Meatloaf is my go-to.

It takes everything you love about taco night—salsa, corn, jalapeños, and taco spices—and bakes it into a juicy, tender loaf that slices beautifully.

The best part? It’s family-friendly, but has just enough kick to keep things exciting.

The recipe is simple to follow and perfect for a family dinner. It can be served with additional salsa on the side and pairs well with rice or a fresh salad.

Jump to Recipe

Recipe Highlights

This meatloaf is anything but ordinary. It’s loaded with bold Mexican flavors and topped with salsa that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Every bite is savory, juicy, and just a little spicy.

• Combines the comfort of meatloaf with the flavors of tacos.
  .
• Packed with corn, jalapeños, salsa, and taco seasoning.
  .
• Juicy texture with a slightly spicy kick.
  .
• Kid-approved but customizable for heat lovers.
  .
• Perfect with rice, beans, or even tortillas on the side.

Ingredient Notes

• Ground beef – Provides the hearty base for the meatloaf, soaking up all the spices.
  .
• Salsa – Mixed in and spread on top, keeping the loaf moist and tangy.
  .
• Corn kernels – Add sweetness and texture for a “street corn” vibe.
  .
• Jalapeños – Bring heat and freshness (seed them for milder spice).
  .
• Taco seasoning – Ensures every bite has authentic taco flavor.
  .
• Eggs – Bind everything together for a firm but tender loaf.
  .
• Breadcrumbs – Help hold shape while keeping the meatloaf moist.
  .
• Shredded cheddar cheese – Melty, cheesy goodness mixed in.

How to Make My Mexican Taco Meatloaf

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5 loaf pan or line with parchment.
   .
2. Mix the base. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, eggs, breadcrumbs, taco seasoning, corn, diced jalapeños, half of the salsa, and shredded cheese. Mix until just combined.
   .
3. Shape the loaf. Press the mixture into the prepared loaf pan or shape freeform on a baking sheet.
   .
4. Top with salsa. Spread the remaining salsa evenly over the top.
   .
5. Bake. Place in oven for 55–60 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
   .
6. Rest & serve. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with extra cheese, cilantro, or jalapeños if desired.

Overview of the Dish

This Mexican taco meatloaf is a delightful twist on a traditional favorite, bringing together ground beef, eggs, and breadcrumbs with a medley of flavors.

Infused with taco seasoning, this dish features corn kernels and fresh jalapeños, ensuring each bite is packed with taste.

Topped with vibrant salsa and melted shredded cheddar cheese, it presents a colorful and inviting meal that is perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners.

Preparation Steps

To create this hearty meatloaf, begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, breadcrumbs, taco seasoning, corn kernels, and diced jalapeños.

Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated before transferring it to a greased loaf pan.

Baking the Meatloaf

Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the preheated oven.

Bake for approximately 45 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meatloaf to cook through.

Once the initial baking time is complete, remove the meatloaf and spread the remaining salsa on top, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.

Finishing Touches

Return the meatloaf to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

This final step adds a delicious layer of flavor and texture, making the dish even more appealing.

Once done, let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing to ensure it holds its shape.

Serving Suggestions

This Mexican Taco Meatloaf pairs perfectly with cilantro-lime rice, refried beans, or roasted vegetables.

For a fun twist, slice it and serve in tortillas with avocado and sour cream for taco-style meatloaf sandwiches.

It’s also great alongside a crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette.

This combination not only enhances the presentation but also complements the flavors of the meatloaf beautifully.

For those who enjoy a bit more spice, additional salsa can be offered on the side, making it a versatile dish that caters to various taste preferences.

Nutritional Information

This hearty meatloaf serves approximately six slices, making it a great option for family meals.

Each serving contains around 345 calories, with 18g of fat and 25g of protein, providing a satisfying and nutritious option for dinner.

The combination of ingredients not only delivers on flavor but also ensures a fulfilling meal that everyone will enjoy.

Tips for the Best Mexican Taco Meatloaf

Don’t over-mix the beef mixture or the meatloaf will turn dense—combine until just blended. For spicier results, leave the seeds in your jalapeños or add chili powder.

To keep the loaf extra juicy, cover it loosely with foil for the first 30 minutes of baking, then uncover to let the salsa glaze caramelize.

Storage and of Warming Leftovers

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in the microwave with a spoonful of salsa to keep moist, or cover with foil and warm in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for 15 minutes.

Meatloaf can also be frozen in slices—wrap tightly and freeze up to 3 months.