Imagine a mouthwatering fusion of classic meatloaf and zesty Mexican flavors that will transform your dinner routine forever! This Crock Pot Taco Meatloaf is not just another boring weeknight meal - it's a flavor explosion that combines the hearty comfort of traditional meatloaf with the bold, spicy essence of taco seasoning. Perfect for busy families and taco lovers, this recipe promises to be your new go-to dish that delivers maximum taste with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, taco seasoning, breadcrumbs, and diced bell peppers. Mix thoroughly using your hands to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Shape the meat mixture into a compact loaf that will fit comfortably inside your crock pot, ensuring it's not too wide or tall to allow proper cooking.
- Lightly grease the interior of the crock pot with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Carefully transfer the formed meatloaf into the crock pot, placing it in the center of the cooking vessel.
- Cover the crock pot with its lid and set the temperature to low heat setting.
- Cook the meatloaf for 5-6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), which indicates the ground beef is fully cooked.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the meatloaf to create a melted cheese topping.
- Once cooking is complete, carefully remove the meatloaf from the crock pot using two large spatulas to prevent breaking.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute and make cutting easier.
- Slice and serve hot, optionally garnishing with additional taco-style toppings like salsa, sour cream, or chopped cilantro.
Tips
- Use fresh ground beef with a moderate fat content (80/20) to ensure a juicy and flavorful meatloaf.
- Mix ingredients thoroughly but avoid overmixing, which can make the meatloaf tough.
- For extra moisture, consider adding a small amount of salsa or diced onions to the meat mixture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F for food safety.
- Let the meatloaf rest after cooking to help it retain its juices and make slicing easier.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties like pepper jack or Mexican blend for added flavor.
- Line your crock pot with parchment paper for even easier cleanup.
- Serve with additional taco toppings like fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 90mg
