Meat Loaf with Hidden Veggies
Try this Meat Loaf with Hidden Veggies recipe.
Try this Meat Loaf with Hidden Veggies recipe.
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 2 egg whites lightly beaten
- 4 teaspoons worcestershire sauce
- 1 lb ground turkey (97% lean) this recipe is with 20 ou since that is what is usually in one package.
- 1 cup chopped onion (add to food processor)
- 1 cup shredded carrot (add to food processor)
- 1 cup shredded zucchini (add to food processor)
- 3/4 cup oats (old fashioned quaker oats...not instant)
- 4 tablespoons of ketchup (two for the mix two for the topping...divided)
- 2 teaspoons dijon mustard (i use regular yellow mustard)
- 0.5 teaspoons (1/2 tsp) dried thyme
- 0.5 teaspoons (1/2 tsp) pepper....the original also has a half o but i always omit the salt.
- Carbohydrate 1.21695555555556 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.1122 g
- Fiber 0 g
- Protein 7.194 g
- Saturated Fat 0 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (147g)
- Sodium 892.411839653361 mg
- Sugar 1.21695555555556 g
- Trans Fat 0.1122 g
- Calories 35 calories
Step-by-step
- Put the three main vegetables in the food processor and then add that to the rest of the ingredients in a large bowl with the exception of two tablespoons of ketchup.
- Use foil to line a loaf pan, spray the foil in the pan, and add the mixture to the pan.
- You can shape it so the middle is higher than the sides.
- Add the two tablespoons of ketchup to the top and cook for an hour and 15 to an hour and 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
My Secret to a Sneaky Healthy Meal: Meatloaf with Hidden Veggies!
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy meals for my family is always a challenge. I'm constantly juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and everything else that comes with modern life. So, when I discovered this recipe for meatloaf with hidden veggies, it was a game-changer! Not only is it delicious and satisfying, but it's also a sneaky way to get my kids to eat their vegetables.
The best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile. I often adjust it based on what vegetables I have on hand. Sometimes I use a mix of carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers. Other times, I’ll throw in some finely chopped mushrooms or spinach. The possibilities are endless! The key is to finely chop or pulse the vegetables in a food processor to ensure they're well incorporated and not easily detectable.
The ground turkey keeps this meatloaf lean and healthy, which is important for me. I love the addition of oats, which adds texture and helps bind the meatloaf together. And let’s be honest, the ketchup topping is a classic for a reason – it adds a touch of sweetness and tang that complements the savory flavors perfectly.
This recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. It's easy to prepare, cooks relatively quickly, and it's always a hit with my family. Plus, knowing that I'm sneaking in some extra veggies without any complaints makes it even better. I often make a double batch and freeze half for another night when I’m short on time.
I’ve learned over the years that even the fussiest eaters can be tricked into enjoying healthy food. The key is to find creative ways to incorporate vegetables into their favorite dishes, and this meatloaf is a perfect example. It’s a delicious, satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy. And who doesn’t love a sneaky way to boost their vegetable intake?
Beyond the ease and health benefits, this meatloaf is also incredibly adaptable. Experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect flavor combination. I’ve tried adding a pinch of garlic powder, a dash of paprika, or even some Italian seasoning, all with delicious results. You can also adjust the amount of ketchup to your liking – some prefer a more generous topping than others. Ultimately, the most important thing is to find a version that your family loves.
I hope you give this recipe a try. It’s a simple way to create a healthy and delicious meal that even your pickiest eaters will enjoy. The secret to happy families? A happy belly, and this meatloaf is definitely a recipe for happy bellies all around. From quick weeknight dinners to easy meal prep, this versatile dish has become a staple in our household. Try it and let me know what you think!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top before baking.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground turkey with lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
- Meal prep friendly: Make a double batch and freeze half for a quick meal another time.
Happy cooking!
