Southwestern Chipotle Meatloaf

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 1 hour
🍽 Serves: 6
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Meet your new favorite comfort food with a twist: Southwestern Chipotle Meatloaf. This dish combines classic meatloaf flavors with a vibrant Southwestern kick. It's perfect for shaking up your dinner routine and impressing your family with something a little different.

Ingredients for Southwestern Chipotle Meatloaf

The heart of this dish is, of course, the ground beef, providing a rich and savory base. To bulk it up and add texture, breadcrumbs help bind everything together. Corn kernels add a touch of sweetness and a pop of color, while black beans contribute earthiness and protein. Onion and garlic bring depth and aroma. The star of our show, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, infuses a smoky, spicy kick. Eggs act as a binder to keep it all intact. For a tangy note, ketchup and Worcestershire sauce round out the flavors with a slight umami edge. The spices, ground cumin and chili powder, enhance the Southwestern flair, while salt and black pepper season the dish. Finally, fresh cilantro adds a fresh, herbal finish.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you prefer a finer texture, use a food processor to chop the onion and garlic.
  • For a spicier kick, add an extra tablespoon of chipotle peppers.
  • Ensure even cooking by forming a uniform loaf.

Serving Suggestions

This meatloaf pairs beautifully with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a refreshing avocado salad. For an added Southwestern touch, serve with warm tortillas and a dollop of sour cream on the side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just note that the flavor and texture might slightly differ.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Southwestern Chipotle Meatloaf Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that's warming up, grab a large mixing bowl. Combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, corn, and black beans. Toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic next. Add the chipotle peppers carefully, as they pack quite a punch.

Now, pour in the eggs, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly using your hands or a sturdy spatula until all ingredients are well combined.

Shape the mixture into a loaf form and place it into a greased loaf pan. Slide it into your preheated oven and let it bake for about an hour. You're looking for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for perfect doneness.

Once done, allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes—this helps it retain its juices when sliced. Before serving, garnish with a generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Brings bold, smoky flavors to your table.
  • Uses wholesome, pantry-friendly ingredients.
  • A great way to incorporate more vegetables into a hearty meal.
  • Simple yet satisfying, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

2 lbs ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup corn kernels
1/2 cup black beans
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, corn, black beans, onion, garlic, chipotle peppers, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
4. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

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