Tex-Mex Meatloaf

Meatloaf - one of my husband's favorite dishes to eat. He doesn't care how I flavor it, as long as it is meaty, tasty and sliced thick. I don't blame him. I enjoy a good piece of meatloaf, I just don't like how greasy some of them can be. I try to make mine as lean as possible and bring some moisture to the loaf by having plenty of veggies. I also have a special loaf pan that has small holes in the bottom, to allow the excess fat to drip into another loaf pan. It's perfect for reducing the saturated fat in the meat. This version of meatloaf is very flavorful and slightly spicy. No need for gravy or anything extra - it's perfect as is. 

The jalapeno is optional, if you aren't fond of spicy foods. The spices that are in the meatloaf help keep the flavors on par, so the jalapeno isn't missed if you choose to omit it. I served this dish with some mashed potatoes (skinny) and simple steamed green beans. Very filled and diet-friendly. 

Tex-Mex Meatloaf

Cook Time: 50 minutes @ 350F
Prep Time: < 5 minutes
Serves: 6 (cut into 6 slices)

Ingredients:

• oil spray
• 1 lb grass-fed lean ground beef
• 1/2 large onion, diced
• 1/2 medium bell pepper, diced
• 1 jalapeno, diced (seeds and ribs removed, if you like)
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup whole wheat bread crumbs
• 1.5 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground chili powder
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, minced
• salt and pepper, to taste

Preheat oven to 350F. Prep a loaf pan with some olive oil spray and set aside.

In a large bowl, combine all of the ingredients by hand. Make sure to not over mix.

Place the meatloaf mixture into the loaf pan and spread evenly.

Transfer the loaf pan to the oven and bake for about 50 minutes or until the meatloaf is completely cooked through. 

Allow the meatloaf to set for about 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. 

Nutritional Info per serving:
Calories: 250 ; Fat: 15g ; Carbohydrate: 9g ; Fiber: 1.5g ; Sugar: 0 ; Protein: 15.5g