Easy Taco Meatloaf Burgers | Juicy, Flavor-Packed Dinner Idea

Juicy, flavorful, and bursting with Tex-Mex goodness these Easy Taco Meatloaf Burgers are the perfect mashup of tacos and burgers! Ready in 30 minutes, packed with spices, and ideal for meal prep or quick family dinners.

Introduction

If you love tacos and burgers, why not combine them into one mouthwatering dish? These Easy Taco Meatloaf Burgers bring together everything you adore juicy meat, taco seasoning, melted cheese, and fresh toppings all tucked inside a soft burger bun.

This is the kind of weeknight dinner that feels indulgent but comes together effortlessly. The mix of taco spices gives these burgers a bold Mexican flavor twist, while the meatloaf-style prep keeps them incredibly juicy. Perfect for family nights, BBQs, or even as a make-ahead meal for the week!

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• ½ cup crushed tortilla chips (or breadcrumbs)
• 1 egg
• ¼ cup milk
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup finely diced onion
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 3 tbsp homemade mix)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste or salsa
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Burger buns (to serve)
• Toppings: lettuce, tomato, avocado, jalapeños, sour cream

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease a cast-iron skillet.

Step 2: Mix the meatloaf base
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, crushed tortilla chips, egg, milk, taco seasoning, tomato paste, onions, and cheese. Gently mix until combined avoid overmixing to keep the texture tender.

Step 3: Shape into patties
Form 4–5 evenly sized patties, about 1 inch thick.

Step 4: Bake or grill
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or grill over medium heat for 5–6 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 5: Assemble the burgers
Place each patty on a toasted bun, top with lettuce, tomato, avocado, and sour cream, and enjoy your flavorful taco-style burger!

Serving & Storage Tips

• Serving: Great with crispy fries, corn salad, guacamole, or grilled veggies.
• Storage: Refrigerate cooked burgers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze raw patties for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking or grilling.
• Reheating: Warm in an oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or microwave briefly.

Quick Instructions

Mix the ground beef, seasonings, and crushed chips.

Shape into patties and bake or grill until cooked through.
Assemble burgers with your favorite toppings.
Serve immediately and enjoy a delicious Tex-Mex twist on a classic!

Notes

These Easy Taco Meatloaf Burgers are a fantastic way to elevate your regular burger nights. The taco seasoning adds bold Southwestern flavors while the crushed tortilla chips keep the texture moist and flavorful.

• Use fresh garlic, onion, and cilantro to add depth and aroma.
• Add a splash of lime juice or chopped jalapeños for that authentic taco kick.
• Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner, high-protein version.
• For a low-carb option, serve the patties over cauliflower rice or inside lettuce wraps.
• To make them extra juicy, mix in 1 tablespoon of Greek yogurt or sour cream into the meat mixture.
• You can even add a layer of melted queso cheese on top for a restaurant-quality finish!

Special Notes

To make this recipe gluten-free, use corn tortilla chips instead of breadcrumbs and gluten free buns. For dairy-free, swap cheddar for vegan cheese or omit it entirely.

Save it on Pinterest or tag us Food Recipe.com when you make these irresistible Taco Meatloaf Burgers! It’s one of those dishes everyone asks for seconds.

Nutrition Facts (per burger, without toppings)

Calories: 380
Protein: 28 g
Carbs: 8 g
Fat: 25 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sodium: 510 mg

FAQs

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, it works perfectly! Just reduce the cooking time slightly, as turkey tends to cook faster.

Q: How do I keep my meatloaf burgers moist?
Avoid overmixing and don’t skip the milk or egg — they bind and keep the texture soft.

Q: Can I air fry them?
Yes! Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q: What toppings go best?
Sliced avocado, shredded lettuce, diced tomato, and creamy chipotle sauce taste amazing.

Disclaimer

Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands or portion sizes.