Taco Meatloaf with Doritos, Cheese, and Taco Sauce Recipe

Introduction

This Taco Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on a classic comfort food, combining the zest of taco seasoning with the crunch of Dorito chips. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs lean ground beef (or ground beef/pork blend)
• 2 cups crushed Dorito chips (crushed tortilla chips or corn chips)
• 1 cup finely chopped onion
• ¼ cup taco seasoning
• 2 eggs
• ⅓ cup milk (broth or water)
• 1 cup taco sauce
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese with jalapenos (Pepper Jack cheese or mozzarella)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly spray the foil with nonstick cooking spray if desired.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed Dorito chips, finely chopped onion, taco seasoning, eggs, and milk. Mix everything together until evenly combined.
3. Step 3: Lightly spray a loaf pan with nonstick spray. Pack the meat mixture into the loaf pan, then flip the pan onto the prepared baking sheet to release the loaf. Alternatively, shape the mixture into a loaf by hand and place it directly on the baking sheet.
4. Step 4: Bake the meatloaf uncovered for 40 minutes without the sauce.
5. Step 5: While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the topping by mixing the taco sauce with a little extra crushed Dorito chips if you like. After 40 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the taco sauce over the top. Sprinkle the shredded cheese and some additional crushed Dorito chips on top.
6. Step 6: Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the meatloaf is cooked through.
7. Step 7: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a small amount of chopped cilantro or diced jalapeños into the meat mixture.
• Substitute crushed tortilla chips if Doritos aren’t available for a milder flavor.
• Try topping the meatloaf with a drizzle of sour cream or guacamole for a creamy finish.
• Make a double batch and freeze one loaf for a quick meal later.

Storage

Store leftover taco meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also freeze cooked meatloaf portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Keep in mind the texture may be slightly different, and you might want to add an extra egg or some breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture.

What if I don’t have a loaf pan?

No loaf pan is needed—you can shape the meat mixture into a loaf by hand and place it on a baking sheet lined with foil. This method helps the meatloaf develop a nice crust all around.

Taco Meatloaf with Doritos, Cheese, and Taco Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 87 reviews

• Author: Lila
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

This Taco Meatloaf recipe combines the classic comfort of meatloaf with zesty, flavorful taco seasonings, crunchy Dorito chips, and melted pepper jack cheese, creating a delicious and fun twist on a traditional dish. Perfect for a family dinner, this easy-to-make meatloaf delivers a satisfying balance of savory and spicy flavors baked to perfection.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs lean ground beef (or ground beef/pork blend)
• 2 cups crushed Dorito chips (or crushed tortilla chips or corn chips)
• 1 cup finely chopped onion
• ¼ cup taco seasoning
• 2 eggs
• ⅓ cup milk (or broth or water)

Topping

• 1 cup taco sauce
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese with jalapenos (or pepper jack cheese or mozzarella)
• Additional crushed Dorito chips, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly spray the foil with nonstick cooking spray if desired to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the lean ground beef, crushed Dorito chips, finely chopped onion, taco seasoning, eggs, and milk. Mix everything thoroughly until well integrated but don’t overmix to keep the texture tender.
3. Shape Meatloaf: Lightly spray a loaf pan with nonstick spray. Pack the meat mixture into the loaf pan evenly. Then, flip the loaf pan onto the prepared baking sheet so the meatloaf sits directly on the foil. Alternatively, shape the mixture into a loaf by hand directly on the baking sheet.
4. Bake Meatloaf: Bake the meatloaf uncovered for 40 minutes. This initial baking allows the meat to cook through but does not yet include the toppings. Consider making a second meatloaf at this point for another meal if desired.
5. Add Toppings and Finish Baking: While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the topping by mixing the taco sauce and shredding the cheese if not pre-shredded. After the 40 minutes is up, remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the taco sauce evenly on top. Sprinkle the shredded cheese and some extra crushed Dorito chips over the sauce. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the meatloaf is cooked through.
6. Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, making for a moist and flavorful slice. After resting, slice and serve warm.

Notes

• Using crushed Dorito chips adds flavor and texture but tortilla chips or corn chips can be substituted if desired.
• For a lower-fat option, use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
• Adjust the amount of taco seasoning to taste depending on how spicy you prefer your meatloaf.
• Resting the meatloaf before slicing is essential to prevent it from falling apart and to retain moisture.
• To save time, prepare a double batch and freeze one loaf for a quick meal later.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Taco Meatloaf, Ground Beef Meatloaf, Mexican Inspired Meatloaf, Easy Meatloaf Recipe, Family Dinner