Dive into the enticing flavors of Mexico with this unique take on a classic dish. These Mexican Meatloaf Muffins are a fun and flavorful twist on traditional meatloaf. The combination of taco seasoning, ground beef, and tortillas brings the vibrant taste of Mexico to your dinner table. Topped with guacamole, salsa, cheese, and sour cream, it's a fiesta of flavors in every bite!
While most ingredients required for this recipe are common staples in most kitchens, Club House® Taco Seasoning might not be. It's a pre-made mix of spices often used in Mexican cuisine. If you don't have it, you can replace it with a mix of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano. Also, mini flour tortillas might not be commonly found in your pantry. These are smaller versions of regular tortillas and can be found in the international or Mexican aisle of most supermarkets.
Key Ingredients for Mexican Meatloaf Muffins
Tomato sauce: A base for the taco sauce, it brings tanginess and depth to the overall flavor.
Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance out the spiciness of the taco sauce.
White vinegar: Provides an acidic element to the taco sauce, enhancing other flavors.
Club House® Taco Seasoning: Adds the distinctive Mexican flavor to the meatloaf.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing the onion and garlic, it adds richness.
Yellow onion: Adds a sweet and savory flavor to the meatloaf mix.
Garlic: Brings a pungent and spicy flavor that mellows and sweetens considerably with cooking.
Ground beef: The main ingredient of the meatloaf, it should be lean for the best outcome.
Bread crumbs: Helps to bind the meatloaf mix together.
Eggs: Acts as a binder for the meatloaf mix, ensuring it holds its shape.
Flour tortillas: Serves as the 'muffin' part of the dish, holding the meatloaf.
Guacamole: A creamy and zesty topping, adding a fresh contrast.
Salsa: Adds a spicy kick, complementing the flavors of the meatloaf.
Cheese: Melts over the meatloaf adding a layer of creamy, salty goodness.
Sour Cream: Provides a cool, tangy contrast to the spicy and savory ingredients.
One reader, Catina Schumacher says:
These Mexican meatloaf muffins were a game-changer! The flavors were incredible, and the individual servings made them so convenient. The taco sauce added a perfect kick, and they were a hit with the whole family. I'll definitely be making these again!
Techniques Required for Mexican Meatloaf Muffins Recipe
How to make the taco sauce: Whisk together the tomato sauce, honey, vinegar, and club house® taco seasoning until smooth. Set aside.
How to sauté onions and garlic: Heat olive oil in a medium pan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes, until softened and starting to brown. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute, until fragrant. Remove the pan from the heat.
How to make the meatloaf mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked onion and garlic, bread crumbs, club house® taco seasoning, eggs, and ½ cup taco sauce. Mix until well combined.
How to form the meatloaf muffins: Divide the beef mixture into 12 4-ounce balls. Gently press the tortillas into each muffin cup, creating mini bowls. Place a meatloaf ball in each bowl and top each with 1 teaspoon taco sauce.
How to bake the meatloaf muffins: Bake the meatloaf muffins for 30 minutes at 350°F, or until the internal temperature of the beef reaches 160°F. Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes.
How to serve: Remove the muffins from the tin and serve with guacamole, salsa, shredded cheese, and sour cream for topping.
How To Make Mexican Meatloaf Muffins
Here’s a creative way to serve meatloaf. Make it as appetizing as an actual cupcake by making these meatloaf muffins with our easy and simple recipe.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1cuptomato sauce
- 2tsphoney
- 1tbspwhite vinegar
- 1tbspClub House® Taco Seasoning
- 1tbspolive oil
- ¼cupyellow onionminced
- 1clovegarlic, minced
- 2lblean ground beef
- ¼cupbread crumbs
- 1packetClub House® Taco Seasoning
- 2largeeggsbeaten
- cooking spraynonstick , for greasing
- 12smallflour tortillas
- Guacamole
- salsa
- cheeseshredded
- sour cream
Instructions
-
Make the taco sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the tomato sauce, honey, vinegar, and Club House® Taco Seasoning until smooth. Set aside.
-
Make the meatloaf muffins: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
-
Heat olive oil in a medium pan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes, until softened and starting to brown. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute, until fragrant. Remove the pan from the heat.
-
Add the ground beef to a large bowl with the cooked onion and garlic, bread crumbs, Club House® Taco Seasoning, eggs, and ½ cup taco sauce. Mix until well combined.
-
Divide the beef mixture into 12 4-ounce balls.
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Grease a muffin tin with nonstick spray. Gently press the tortillas into each muffin cup, making mini bowls. Place a meatloaf ball in each bowl and top each with 1 teaspoon taco sauce.
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Bake the meatloaf muffins for 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the beef reaches 160 degrees F. Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes.
-
Remove the muffins from the tin. Serve with guacamole, salsa, shredded cheese, and sour cream for topping.
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Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 362.07kcal
- Fat: 21.66g
- Saturated Fat: 6.75g
- Trans Fat: 0.90g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10.27g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.00g
- Carbohydrates: 23.31g
- Fiber: 1.49g
- Sugar: 3.07g
- Protein: 17.64g
- Cholesterol: 84.68mg
- Sodium: 500.57mg
- Calcium: 90.18mg
- Potassium: 345.69mg
- Iron: 3.34mg
- Vitamin A: 21.33µg
- Vitamin C: 1.80mg
Helpful Technique Tip for Mexican Meatloaf Muffins Recipe
When preparing the meatloaf muffins, it's important to evenly distribute the ground beef mixture into the tortilla bowls. This ensures that each muffin cooks evenly and at the same rate. Additionally, pressing the tortillas into the muffin tin to create mini bowls not only gives a fun twist to the traditional meatloaf presentation, but also provides a crispy, delicious base for the meatloaf. For an extra touch of flavor, consider lightly toasting the tortillas in the oven before adding the meatloaf mixture.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Mexican Meatloaf Muffins
Prep ahead: Prepare the taco sauce and meatloaf mixture the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly chop the onions and garlic for the meatloaf mixture.
Bake in advance: Bake the meatloaf muffins in advance and reheat them when ready to serve for a time-saving meal.
Organize ingredients: Organize all the ingredients and utensils before starting to cook for a smoother and faster cooking process.
Multi-task: While the meatloaf muffins are baking, prepare the toppings and sides to save time in the kitchen.
Pre-portion: Portion out the meatloaf mixture and taco sauce in advance for easy assembly when making the meatloaf muffins.
Substitute Ingredients For Mexican Meatloaf Muffins Recipe
tomato sauce - Substitute with salsa: Salsa can add a similar tomato flavor with added spices and heat, enhancing the Mexican-inspired taste of the dish.
honey - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar provides a similar sweetness and viscosity, while also adding a subtle earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
white vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar offers a slightly milder and fruitier flavor compared to white vinegar, which can work well in the recipe.
club house® taco seasoning - Substitute with homemade taco seasoning: Making your own taco seasoning allows you to customize the flavors and adjust the level of heat and salt to your preference.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
yellow onion - Substitute with white onion: White onion can provide a similar pungent flavor and texture to yellow onion, making it a suitable replacement in the recipe.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a convenient option with a milder flavor.
lean ground beef - Substitute with lean ground turkey: Lean ground turkey can be a healthier alternative to beef while still providing a similar texture and flavor in the dish.
bread crumbs - Substitute with crushed tortilla chips: Crushed tortilla chips can add a unique texture and flavor to the dish, enhancing the Mexican-inspired theme.
club house® taco seasoning - Substitute with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano: A blend of these spices can replicate the flavors of taco seasoning, allowing for a homemade alternative.
eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water: A mixture of flaxseed meal and water can act as a binding agent similar to eggs, making it suitable for this recipe.
flour tortillas - Substitute with corn tortillas: Corn tortillas can provide a more authentic Mexican flavor and texture to the dish, adding a different dimension to the recipe.
guacamole - Substitute with sliced avocado: Sliced avocado can offer a similar creamy texture and rich flavor, serving as a simple alternative to guacamole.
salsa - Substitute with pico de gallo: Pico de gallo can provide a fresh and chunky alternative to salsa, adding a vibrant flavor and texture to the dish.
cheese - Substitute with queso fresco: Queso fresco can offer a mild and crumbly texture, adding a unique touch to the dish with its subtle saltiness.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can provide a creamy and tangy alternative to sour cream, offering a healthier option with a similar texture and flavor.
Presenting Mexican Meatloaf Muffins
Elevate the meatloaf muffins: Instead of serving the meatloaf muffins in a traditional manner, consider elevating the presentation by serving them on a platter lined with vibrant lettuce leaves. This will add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Garnish with precision: Add a touch of finesse to the dish by garnishing each meatloaf muffin with a dollop of creamy guacamole and a drizzle of zesty salsa. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add layers of flavor to the dish.
Artful cheese placement: Instead of simply sprinkling the cheese on top, consider grating the cheese into delicate curls and artfully placing them on the meatloaf muffins. This will add a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Sour cream swirls: Create elegant swirls of sour cream on the plate using a squeeze bottle, adding a touch of elegance to the overall presentation of the dish.
Tortilla crisps: Transform the small flour tortillas into crispy, golden-brown tortilla crisps to serve alongside the meatloaf muffins. This will add texture and visual interest to the dish.
Vibrant plating: Consider using vibrant salsa as a base on the plate before placing the meatloaf muffins. This will create a stunning contrast and elevate the visual appeal of the dish.
Microgreens accent: Sprinkle a few delicate microgreens over the meatloaf muffins to add a touch of freshness and a pop of color to the presentation.
Individualized plating: Serve each meatloaf muffin on its own small plate, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of taco seasoning. This individualized plating will showcase the dish beautifully.
Essential Tools for Making Mexican Meatloaf Muffins
Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for quickly and efficiently preparing various components of a recipe.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential kitchen tool for combining ingredients, marinating meats, and preparing various components of a dish. It comes in various sizes and materials to suit different cooking needs.
Storing and Freezing Mexican Meatloaf Muffins
Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for the Mexican meatloaf muffins recipe:
- Allow the meatloaf muffins to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making them soggy.
- To store in the refrigerator:
- Place the cooled muffins in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, place the muffins on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
- To freeze the meatloaf muffins:
- Wrap each cooled muffin individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring a tight seal.
- Place the wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat frozen meatloaf muffins:
- Remove the desired number of muffins from the freezer and unwrap them.
- Place the muffins on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of reheating to crisp up the tortilla cups.
- For best results, consume the reheated meatloaf muffins immediately, as the tortilla cups may become soggy if left to sit for too long.
How To Reheat Leftover Mexican Meatloaf Muffins
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover mexican meatloaf muffins on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover the muffins loosely with foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of reheating to crisp up the tortilla cups.
For a quicker option, place the muffins on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. The damp paper towel will help keep the muffins moist during reheating.
If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover muffins in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and the tortilla cups are crispy.
For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the muffins in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until warmed through. This method will help crisp up the tortilla cups while keeping the meatloaf moist.
If you want to add extra flavor and moisture to your reheated muffins, brush them with a bit of olive oil or tomato sauce before reheating. This will help prevent them from drying out and add a burst of flavor.
Interesting Fact About Mexican Meatloaf Muffins
The Mexican meatloaf muffins recipe is a creative twist on traditional meatloaf, combining classic flavors with a fun and portable presentation. These mini meatloaf muffins are a great way to enjoy the flavors of a taco in a convenient and delicious form. They are perfect for parties, gatherings, or even as a quick and easy weeknight meal. The use of taco seasoning and tortillas adds a unique Mexican flair to the dish, making it a versatile and flavorful option for any occasion. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, these meatloaf muffins are sure to be a hit with everyone!
Is Making Mexican Meatloaf Muffins at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this Mexican meatloaf muffins recipe is quite favorable for a household. The use of affordable ingredients like ground beef, bread crumbs, and basic pantry staples makes it a budget-friendly option. The versatility of the dish allows for creative variations, maximizing its value. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it an economical choice. The overall verdict for this recipe is 8/10, considering its balance of cost, flavor, and nutritional value.
Are Mexican Meatloaf Muffins Healthy or Unhealthy?
The Mexican meatloaf muffins recipe, while tasty, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- The recipe uses 2 lbs of ground beef, which is high in saturated fat and calories.
- Bread crumbs are used as a filler, adding extra carbohydrates without much nutritional value.
- The recipe calls for two packets of taco seasoning, which often contain high amounts of sodium and preservatives.
- Flour tortillas are used as the base for the muffins, adding more refined carbohydrates to the dish.
- Toppings like cheese and sour cream increase the overall fat and calorie content of the meal.
However, the recipe does include some healthier elements, such as the use of lean ground beef, onion, and garlic, which provide some nutrients and flavor without adding excessive fat or calories.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace half of the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken to reduce the overall fat content.
- Use whole wheat bread crumbs or oats instead of regular bread crumbs to increase the fiber content.
- Make your own taco seasoning blend using herbs and spices, reducing the sodium and preservatives found in store-bought packets.
- Opt for whole wheat or corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas to increase the fiber content and reduce refined carbohydrates.
- Use reduced-fat cheese and sour cream, or replace them with healthier toppings like diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, or fresh cilantro.
- Increase the amount of vegetables in the recipe by adding diced bell peppers, grated carrots, or chopped spinach to the meat mixture.
- Serve the meatloaf muffins with a side salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the meal and add more nutrients.
Editor's Opinion on This Mexican Meatloaf Muffins Recipe
The Mexican meatloaf muffins recipe is a delightful fusion of classic meatloaf and bold Mexican flavors. The use of taco seasoning and tortillas adds a unique twist to the traditional meatloaf, creating individual-sized portions that are perfect for serving and enjoying. The combination of savory beef, zesty taco sauce, and the option to customize with guacamole, salsa, cheese, and sour cream makes this recipe a versatile and fun addition to any meal. The muffin-sized servings also make it a great option for entertaining or family dinners. Overall, it's a creative and delicious take on a comfort food classic.
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Why trust this Mexican Meatloaf Muffins Recipe:
This recipe offers a unique twist on traditional meatloaf, combining the flavors of Mexican cuisine with the comfort of classic meatloaf. The use of club house® taco seasoning adds an authentic and robust flavor profile, while the incorporation of guacamole, salsa, cheese, and sour cream provides a delightful and customizable topping experience. The careful combination of tomato sauce, honey, and white vinegar in the taco sauce showcases a balance of sweet and tangy flavors. With its creative approach and well-crafted ingredients, this recipe is a trustworthy choice for a delicious and satisfying meal.
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