Mexican Meatloaf with Salsa

Name: Mexican Meatloaf with Salsa
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 lb ground pork; 1 cup salsa; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Home Recipes

I love making a Mexican twist on the classic meatloaf recipe! This Mexican Meatloaf with Salsa not only offers a satisfying savory flavor but also surprises with a delightful kick from fresh herbs and spices. The addition of salsa infuses moisture, enhancing the meat's taste, while the smoky undertones provide a rich depth. This unique recipe has quickly become a family favorite at our table, and I'm excited to share how easy it is to prepare. It’s perfect for weekday dinners or casual gatherings with friends!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:25:27.496Z

When I first attempted to integrate traditional Mexican flavors into meatloaf, I was pleasantly surprised by how well they blended. The spicy salsa and fresh cilantro not only kept the meat moist but also added layers of flavor that I hadn’t expected. Using a combination of ground beef and pork created a juicy meatloaf that my family devoured!

One tip I discovered is to let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice even more tender. You can serve it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

        What You'll Love About This Recipe
        Unique blend of spices that brings a fiesta to your dinner table
Juicy and tender texture that melts in your mouth
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of ground beef and ground pork in this meatloaf not only enhances the flavor but also balances the fat content, resulting in a moist and tender loaf. The pork brings a slight sweetness to the dish, while the beef provides that classic meaty richness. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be used, but keep in mind that you may need to add additional moisture to maintain tenderness.

Salsa is the star ingredient in this recipe, adding both moisture and flavor. Choosing a chunky salsa can contribute texture to the meatloaf, helping it maintain its form while baking. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a spicy salsa will add an extra kick to the final dish, while a milder version can ensure it's family-friendly. Feel free to experiment with different types, such as roasted salsa, for a smoky flavor.

Baking and Serving Tips

When shaping the meatloaf, avoid overmixing; excessive handling can lead to a dense texture. It's ideal to just combine the ingredients until they're well integrated—a few lumps are perfectly fine. Using a loaf pan helps the meatloaf to maintain its shape during baking. To ensure even cooking, you might consider placing a baking sheet under the loaf pan to catch any drippings, preventing a smoky oven disaster.

Once baked, letting the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes is crucial. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the loaf, ensuring slices are juicy and flavorful. For a fun twist when serving, consider topping each slice with additional salsa and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or diced avocado. This adds a burst of freshness and color, elevating your presentation.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious Mexican Meatloaf with Salsa:

Meatloaf Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 lb ground pork
1 cup salsa
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 egg
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have everything ready, it’s time to mix and bake!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Mexican Meatloaf with Salsa:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, salsa, breadcrumbs, cilantro, egg, cumin, and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.

Bake

Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Rest and Serve

Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with additional salsa on top if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Mexican Meatloaf!

Pro Tips

For even more flavor, try using spicy salsa or adding shredded cheese to the meat mixture. This recipe pairs wonderfully with cornbread or a side of guacamole.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the great aspects of this Mexican Meatloaf is its make-ahead potential. You can easily prepare the mixture a day in advance, covering it tightly and storing it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, simply shape it into a loaf and follow the cooking instructions. This convenience is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without the hassle.

If you're looking to make this dish in bulk, cooked meatloaf can be frozen for up to three months. Allow the meatloaf to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in a low oven (around 325°F/160°C) until heated through, ensuring it remains juicy.

Variations and Flavor Enhancements

This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing for various mix-ins or toppings. For a cheesy version, consider folding in some shredded cheese such as Monterey Jack or cheddar into the meat mixture. You can also top the meatloaf with cheese during the final minutes of baking for a delightful melted finish. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

For those who enjoy additional tex-mex flavors, add diced jalapeños or bell peppers to the mix for an extra crunch. Incorporating corn can also add a sweet, pop-like texture that complements the spices beautifully. The key is to keep the ingredient ratios balanced, ensuring that the meat's integrity remains the focus while still having fun with flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use only ground beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute ground pork with ground beef, though the meatloaf may be slightly less moist.

→ Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking.

→ What can I serve with Mexican Meatloaf?

It goes great with rice, beans, or a fresh side salad. You can also add tortilla chips for a fun crunch.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.