Mexican Meatloaf Green Chiles (Print Version)

Classic Mexican meatloaf with taco spices, green chiles, cheddar jack, salsa, and tortilla chips.

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 2 pounds lean ground beef
02 - 1/2 cup whole milk
03 - 2 large eggs
04 - 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1/4 cup)
05 - 1 cup white onion, finely chopped
06 - 4 ounces canned green chiles, drained
07 - 1 cup tortilla chips, crushed
08 - 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
09 - 1 1/2 cups cheddar jack cheese, shredded, divided (1 cup plus 1/2 cup)
10 - 1 cup salsa, divided (1/2 cup plus 1/2 cup)

→ For Serving

11 - Chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

# Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C) and coat a 9x5 inch loaf pan with nonstick spray.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, milk, eggs, taco seasoning, chopped white onion, green chiles, crushed tortilla chips, minced garlic, 1 cup shredded cheese, and 1/2 cup salsa. Mix thoroughly by hand or with a large spoon until just incorporated.
03 - Shape the mixture into a loaf and transfer to the prepared pan. Spread remaining 1/2 cup salsa evenly over the surface. Bake in the center of the oven for 1 hour and 20 minutes.
04 - Remove pan from oven, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheese evenly over the top, then return to oven. Bake an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the center reaches 160°F (71°C).
05 - Allow the meatloaf to rest for several minutes prior to slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired, before serving.

# Notes:

01 - Let the meatloaf rest after baking to ensure easier slicing and optimum juiciness.