Bison Meatloaf with Green Chile
Lean bison gets a flavorful, juicy upgrade with smoky green chiles and a tangy, slightly spicy glaze. A delicious Southwest twist on a classic American comfort food, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
For 6 servings
10 steps. 60 minutes total.
- 1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- a.Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- 2
In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat
- a.Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- 3
Step 3
- a.In a small bowl, prepare the glaze by whisking together 1/2 cup of ketchup, the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and chipotle powder until smooth. Set aside.
- 4
Step 4
- a.In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground bison, panko breadcrumbs, drained green chiles, beaten egg, the remaining 1/4 cup of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the cooled onion and garlic mixture.
- 5
Using your hands, gently mix all the meatloaf ingredients until just combined
- a.Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a free-form loaf, approximately 9x5 inches.
- 7
Bake for 40 minutes
- a.Remove the meatloaf from the oven and carefully spread half of the prepared glaze evenly over the top and sides.
- 8
Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes
- a.Remove it again, spread the remaining glaze over the top, and bake for a final 10 minutes. The meatloaf is done when the glaze is caramelized and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center registers 160°F (71°C).
- 9
Step 9
- a.Let the meatloaf rest on the baking sheet for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful slice.
- 10
Step 10
- a.Slice and serve warm with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Bison is very lean. Avoid overmixing the meat to prevent a dense, tough texture.
- 2Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked to a safe 160°F (71°C) without overcooking it.
- 3Resting the meatloaf is crucial. It allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and moist slice.
- 4For extra moisture, you can add 1/4 cup of milk or beef broth to the meat mixture.
- 5Baking on a sheet pan instead of a loaf pan allows the exterior to brown better and the fat to render away.
Adapt it for your goals.
Cheesy Green Chile Meatloaf
Mix 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese into the meat mixture for a gooey, cheesy interior.
Spicier KickSpicier Kick
Use hot green chiles instead of mild, and add a finely chopped jalapeño to the onion and garlic mixture for extra heat.
Different MeatsDifferent Meats
If you can't find bison, this recipe works well with lean ground beef (90/10), ground turkey, or a combination of ground beef and pork.
Gluten Free OptionGluten-Free Option
Substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb, gluten-free binder.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Lean Protein Powerhouse
Ground bison is an excellent source of high-quality lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function. It's also typically lower in fat and calories compared to ground beef.
Rich in Iron and B Vitamins
Bison meat is packed with essential nutrients like iron, which helps transport oxygen in the blood, and B vitamins (especially B12), which are vital for energy production and brain health.
Metabolism-Boosting Capsaicin
Green chiles contain capsaicin, a compound that can provide a temporary boost to your metabolism and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it can be a healthy choice. Bison is a lean meat, lower in fat and calories than beef, and high in protein, iron, and B vitamins. The green chiles add flavor and vitamins with minimal calories.