This hearty Chipotle Meatloaf brings a spicy twist to a classic dish. Made with tender ground meat and a kick of chipotle peppers, it’s full of flavor and sure to please.
I love how easy it is to make—just mix, shape, and bake! Plus, the leftovers are perfect for sandwiches. Who doesn’t love a good meatloaf sandwich, right? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a juicy meatloaf. If you’re looking to lighten things up, you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind it may need more moisture.
Chipotle Peppers: These give the meatloaf its signature heat and smokiness. If you prefer less spice, use just one pepper or substitute with smoked paprika for flavor without the burn.
Breadcrumbs: I use plain breadcrumbs to bind the mixture. You can opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers if needed.
Cilantro: This adds freshness. If you’re not a fan, parsley or green onions make great alternatives!
Ketchup: For a twist, barbecue sauce can be a fun substitute for the glaze! It adds a different flavor profile that still tastes great.
How Do You Ensure Your Meatloaf Stays Moist?
Keeping meatloaf moist can be tricky, but here are some tips:
- Soak the breadcrumbs in milk. This adds moisture and helps bind the meatloaf.
- Avoid overmixing when combining ingredients. Just mix until everything is combined to keep it tender.
- Bake at the right temperature. Cooking at 350°F lets the meatloaf cook evenly without drying out.
- Let it rest after baking. This step allows juices to redistribute, keeping every slice juicy.
How to Make Chipotle Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- 1 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup finely diced carrot
- 1/2 cup finely diced celery
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced (adjust for heat preference)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- For the Glaze:
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons adobo sauce (from chipotle peppers)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Time Needed:
This delicious Chipotle Meatloaf will take about 15 minutes to prep and about 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes to bake. Overall, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish, plus 10 minutes of resting time before slicing.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper so your meatloaf comes out easily after baking.
2. Soak the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and whole milk. Let them soak for about 5 minutes, until the breadcrumbs absorb the milk and soften. This will help keep your meatloaf moist!
3. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, carrot, celery, minced garlic, minced chipotle peppers, eggs, chopped cilantro, Worcestershire sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a fork to combine everything gently—just mix until it’s together, being careful not to overmix.
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Now it’s time to shape your meat mixture into a loaf. Place the shaped loaf into your prepared pan, making sure it’s nicely packed in.
5. Make the Glaze:
In a separate bowl, combine the ketchup, adobo sauce, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. This is your flavorful glaze! Spread it evenly over the top of the meatloaf so it bakes into a tasty crust.
6. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour to 1 hour 10 minutes. Check the internal temperature; it should reach 160°F (71°C) to be fully cooked.
7. Rest and Slice:
Once baked, carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to settle and makes slicing easier!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your meatloaf with extra chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. Serve warm with sides like roasted vegetables or a crisp salad. Enjoy your delicious and spicy Chipotle Meatloaf!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for a lighter meatloaf. Just be aware that it can be drier than beef, so you might want to add a bit more moisture, like an extra splash of milk or an additional egg.
What Should I Do with Leftover Meatloaf?
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It makes for delicious sandwiches or can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Freeze Meatloaf for Later?
Yes! You can freeze the meatloaf before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. Just make sure to label it! It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you want less heat, use only one chipotle pepper or omit the adobo sauce in the glaze. Adding a tablespoon of brown sugar in the meat mixture can also help balance the spice, making it more mild!
