Green Chile Meatloaf
A juicy, flavorful twist on classic comfort food! This meatloaf is packed with zesty green chiles and melty Monterey Jack cheese, then topped with a tangy, sweet glaze. A perfect weeknight dinner.
For 8 servings
5 steps. 65 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Preheat oven and sauté aromatics.
- b.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- c.Heat the vegetable oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened.
- d.Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Combine the meatloaf mixture.
- b.In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, drained green chiles, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, Worcestershire sauce, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- c.Add the cooled onion and garlic mixture to the bowl.
- d.Using your hands or a spatula, gently mix all ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure a tender meatloaf.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Form the loaf and prepare the glaze.
- b.Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a free-form rectangular loaf, approximately 9x5 inches.
- c.In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar until smooth to create the glaze.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Bake the meatloaf in two stages.
- b.Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes.
- c.Carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven and evenly spread the prepared glaze over the top and sides.
- d.Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the glaze is bubbly and caramelized and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) on a meat thermometer.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Rest, slice, and serve.
- b.Let the meatloaf rest on the baking sheet for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
- c.Slice into 8 equal portions and serve warm.
What to keep in mind.
7 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't overmix the meat mixture, as this can result in a tough, dense meatloaf. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- 2Using 85/15 ground beef provides enough fat to keep the meatloaf moist and flavorful without being greasy.
- 3Letting the sautéed onions and garlic cool slightly prevents them from scrambling the eggs when mixed in.
- 4Shaping the meatloaf on a baking sheet instead of in a loaf pan allows the fat to render and drain away, resulting in a better crust.
- 5Resting the meatloaf for 10 minutes before slicing is crucial. It allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is moist.
- 6For a spicier kick, use hot diced green chiles or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
- 7Leftover meatloaf makes fantastic sandwiches the next day!
Adapt it for your goals.
Meat Swap
Substitute half of the ground beef with ground pork or ground turkey for a different flavor and texture.
Cheese ChangeCheese Change
Use shredded sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend instead of Monterey Jack.
Spicier GlazeSpicier Glaze
Add a teaspoon of adobo sauce from a can of chipotle peppers to the glaze for a smoky, spicy kick.
Binder AlternativeBinder Alternative
Crushed saltine crackers or regular breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute for panko breadcrumbs.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Ground beef is rich in high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and maintaining overall body function.
Rich in Iron
This dish provides a significant amount of heme iron from the red meat, a form that is easily absorbed by the body. Iron is crucial for preventing anemia and maintaining energy levels.
Contains B Vitamins
Beef is a natural source of several B vitamins, including B12, niacin, and B6, which are vital for energy metabolism, brain function, and the formation of red blood cells.
Frequently asked questions
A single slice of this meatloaf contains approximately 380-420 calories, depending on the exact fat content of the ground beef and specific brands of ingredients used.