This Taco Meatloaf is a fun twist on the classic comfort dish, packed with Tex-Mex flavors.
With crunchy corn chips, salsa, melted cheese, and taco seasoning, it’s cheesy, flavorful, and perfect for an easy family dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It transforms traditional meatloaf into a taco-inspired dish.
It’s loaded with salsa, corn chips, and plenty of cheese.
It’s hearty, comforting, and simple to make in under an hour.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Ground beef is the protein base that holds everything together.
Corn chips add crunch and flavor inside the meatloaf.
Salsa provides moisture and bold taco-style taste.
Taco seasoning brings classic Mexican spices.
Shredded Mexican cheese blend makes it gooey and cheesy.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Crush the corn chips finely so they blend well with the meat.
Line the pan with foil for easy removal and cleanup.
Let the meatloaf rest before slicing—it holds together better.
Use a thermometer to check for doneness (160°F internal temp).
How to Make Taco Meatloaf
Step 1 – Crush the chips
Place corn chips in a bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
Step 2 – Mix the meatloaf base
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, eggs, and crushed chips.
Step 3 – Add flavor
Mix in salsa, taco seasoning, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
Step 4 – Fold in cheese
Stir in shredded Mexican cheese blend.
Step 5 – Shape and prep
Line a loaf pan with foil, spray with cooking spray, and press the mixture into the pan.
Step 6 – Add salsa topping
Spread salsa evenly over the top.
Step 7 – Bake and add cheese
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes.
Remove, sprinkle cheese on top, and return to the oven.
Step 8 – Finish and serve
Bake until cheese is melted and internal temp reaches 160°F.
Rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with rice or your favorite sides.
What to Serve It With
Spanish rice or cilantro lime rice pairs perfectly.
Serve with roasted vegetables or a green salad.
Cornbread or warm tortillas make it extra filling.
Variations / Substitutions
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
Swap corn chips for crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs.
Add diced jalapeños for extra heat.
Top with guacamole or sour cream for a Tex-Mex finish.
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat slices in the oven or microwave until warm.
Freeze tightly wrapped portions for up to 2 months.
FAQs
Can I make this with ground turkey?
Yes, just reduce cooking time slightly and check for doneness.
Do the corn chips make it crunchy?
They soften while baking but add flavor and texture inside.
Can I prep it ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate overnight before baking.
What cheese works best?
A Mexican blend melts beautifully, but cheddar or Monterey Jack also work.
How do I keep it from falling apart?
Let it rest before slicing so the juices settle.
Is it spicy?
It’s mild as written, but add cayenne or jalapeños for heat.
Final Thoughts
Taco Meatloaf is a flavorful, cheesy upgrade to the classic.
With salsa, corn chips, and melted cheese, it’s comfort food with a Tex-Mex twist—easy, fun, and sure to be a family favorite.
Taco Meatloaf
Ingredients
Method
- Crush corn chips in a bag with a rolling pin.
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, eggs, and crushed chips.
- Add salsa, taco seasoning, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well.
- Stir in shredded cheese.
- Line a loaf pan with foil, spray with cooking spray, and press mixture inside.
- Spread salsa over the top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/taco-meatloaf/
Notes
- Avoid overmixing the meat mixture—this keeps the loaf tender.
- For extra spice, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.
- Leftovers make excellent taco-stuffed sandwiches the next day.
Full Recipe Card
Ingredients
- 6 oz corn chips
- 2 lbs lean ground beef
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups corn and black bean salsa (or chunky salsa)
- 1 oz taco seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
Instructions
- Crush corn chips in a bag with a rolling pin.
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, eggs, and crushed chips.
- Add salsa, taco seasoning, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well.
- Stir in shredded cheese.
- Line a loaf pan with foil, spray with cooking spray, and press mixture inside.
- Spread salsa over the top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes. Remove, add cheese, and return to oven.
- Bake until cheese is melted and internal temp reaches 160°F. Rest 5 minutes, slice, and serve.
SEO Summary
SEO Title: Taco Meatloaf – A Cheesy Tex-Mex Twist on Classic Comfort Food
Meta Description: This Taco Meatloaf is packed with ground beef, salsa, corn chips, and melted cheese. A Tex-Mex spin on classic meatloaf that’s hearty, cheesy, and family-friendly.
Focus Keyword: Taco Meatloaf
Keyword Density: ~1.4%
Word Count: ~1,180
Google-safe: ✅
Ingredients preserved: ✅
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