This hidden vegetable meatloaf recipe is a delicious way to sneak more vegetables into your diet. It combines lean ground beef and turkey with a variety of vegetables that are finely diced so they blend seamlessly into the meatloaf. The result is a moist and flavorful dish that packs a nutritious punch.
The ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in most households. However, if you do not typically use ground turkey, it can be found in the same section as ground beef in your local supermarket. Also, for rolled oats, make sure to get the regular kind, not the quick-cook or steel-cut varieties.
Hidden Vegetable Meatloaf Recipe Ingredients
Lean ground beef: This forms the base of the meatloaf and is a great source of protein.
Ground turkey: A leaner option to ground beef, adding a different flavor profile.
Egg: Binds the ingredients together in the meatloaf.
Celery: Adds a nice crunch and nutritional boost.
Rolled Oats: Helps to bind the meatloaf and add texture.
Skim milk: Works with the oats to keep the meatloaf moist.
Ketchup: Adds a tangy sweetness to the meatloaf.
Onion: Adds flavor and aromatic depth to the meatloaf.
Green bell pepper: Contributes a slight bitterness and additional nutritional value.
Parsley: Provides a fresh, herby note.
Dry mustard powder: Adds a bit of a kick and enhances the overall flavor.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Garlic: Infuses the meatloaf with its unique flavor.
Ground black pepper: Adds heat and depth to the overall flavor.
One reader, Darla Collins says:
This hidden vegetable meatloaf recipe is a game-changer! The combination of beef, turkey, and veggies makes it so flavorful and moist. My family couldn't even tell there were veggies in it! It's a great way to sneak in extra nutrients. I highly recommend it for a healthy and delicious meal.
Techniques Required for Making Hidden Vegetable Meatloaf
How to combine ingredients: Mix the ground beef, ground turkey, egg, celery, rolled oats, skim milk, ketchup, onion, green bell pepper, parsley, dry mustard powder, salt, garlic, and black pepper in a bowl until thoroughly combined. The mixture will be moist.
How to transfer mixture into loaf pan: Once the ingredients are combined, transfer the mixture into a 5 by 9-inch loaf pan, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
How to bake meatloaf: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake until an instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the center of the meatloaf reads at least 160 degrees F, about 1 1/2 hours.
How to check for doneness: The meatloaf may still look pink inside due to the ketchup, so use a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached the correct internal temperature.
How To Make Hidden Veggie Meatloaf
Feeding your kids nutrient vegetables becoming a headache? Hide veggies in this veggie meatloaf that is so meaty and tasty they won’t even notice.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lblean ground beef
- ⅔lbground turkey
- 1egg
- ¾cupcelery,finely chopped
- ¾cupregular rolled oats
- ½cupskim milk
- ½cupketchup
- ½cuponion,finely chopped
- ½cupgreen bell pepper,finely chopped
- 1tbspparsley,dried
- 1tspdry mustard powder
- ⅔tspsalt
- ½tspgarlic,minced
- ½tspground black pepper
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.
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Combine ground beef, ground turkey, and the rest of the ingredients in a bowl until thoroughly combined. Mixture will be moist.
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Transfer mixture into a 5 by 9-inch loaf pan.
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Bake in the preheated oven until an instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the center of the meatloaf reads at least 160 degrees F, about 1 1/2 hours.
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Meatloaf may still look pink inside due to ketchup.
Nutrition
- Calories: 353.95kcal
- Fat: 20.60g
- Saturated Fat: 7.14g
- Trans Fat: 0.95g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 8.57g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.94g
- Carbohydrates: 15.88g
- Fiber: 1.75g
- Sugar: 6.48g
- Protein: 26.55g
- Cholesterol: 115.52mg
- Sodium: 519.78mg
- Calcium: 89.42mg
- Potassium: 543.14mg
- Iron: 2.87mg
- Vitamin A: 65.71µg
- Vitamin C: 13.33mg
Technique Tip for Perfectly Moist Meatloaf
When preparing your meatloaf, it's important to not overmix the ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough loaf. Instead, gently combine the ground beef, ground turkey, and other ingredients until just combined for a tender and juicy result.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Meatloaf
Prep ahead: Chop and prepare all the vegetables and ingredients the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Use a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly chop vegetables and mix ingredients for the meatloaf.
Bake multiple: Consider making two meatloaves and freezing one for later to save time on future meals.
One-pan meal: Serve the meatloaf with a side of roasted vegetables to create a complete meal in one pan, saving time on additional cooking.
Leftover makeover: Use leftover meatloaf to make sandwiches or wraps for quick and easy meals the next day.
Quick oats: Use quick oats instead of regular rolled oats to reduce the preparation time for the meatloaf.
Substitute Ingredients For Hidden Veggie Meatloaf Recipe
lean ground beef - Substitute with lean ground chicken: Ground chicken is a lean alternative to beef and will work well in this recipe, providing a lighter flavor and texture.
ground turkey - Substitute with ground chicken: Ground chicken can be used as a substitute for ground turkey, as it has a similar texture and flavor profile.
egg - Substitute with flaxseed egg: A flaxseed egg can be used as a vegan substitute for eggs, providing binding properties similar to a regular egg.
celery - Substitute with shredded zucchini: Shredded zucchini can be used as a hidden vegetable in the meatloaf, adding moisture and nutrients without altering the flavor significantly.
regular rolled oats - Substitute with quinoa flakes: Quinoa flakes can be used as a gluten-free alternative to rolled oats, providing a similar texture and nutritional benefits.
skim milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative to skim milk, adding moisture and richness to the meatloaf mixture.
ketchup - Substitute with tomato sauce: Tomato sauce can be used as a substitute for ketchup, providing a smoother texture and a slightly less sweet flavor.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a milder alternative to onions, adding a subtle flavor to the meatloaf mixture.
green bell pepper - Substitute with red bell pepper: Red bell pepper can be used as a substitute for green bell pepper, providing a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color.
parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro can be used as a substitute for parsley, adding a fresh and citrusy flavor to the meatloaf mixture.
dry mustard powder - Substitute with prepared mustard: Prepared mustard can be used as a substitute for dry mustard powder, adding a tangy flavor to the meatloaf mixture.
salt - Substitute with low-sodium soy sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce can be used as a substitute for salt, adding savory umami flavor to the meatloaf mixture.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a more subtle and evenly distributed garlic flavor.
ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as a substitute for black pepper, providing a milder and less visible specks in the meatloaf mixture.
Presenting Your Hidden Vegetable Meatloaf
- Elevate the meatloaf: Instead of serving the meatloaf in a traditional loaf shape, consider shaping it into individual portions using a ring mold for a more refined presentation.
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a pop of color and freshness to the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or chives.
- Create a colorful vegetable medley: Serve the meatloaf alongside a vibrant array of roasted bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini to add visual appeal to the plate.
- Drizzle with a savory glaze: Create a glossy finish on the meatloaf by lightly drizzling it with a reduction of balsamic vinegar and honey for a touch of sweetness.
- Accompany with a velvety puree: Serve the meatloaf with a smooth and creamy cauliflower puree or sweet potato mash for an elegant and luxurious touch.
- Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce a touch of sophistication by delicately placing edible flowers such as nasturtiums or pansies on the plate for a visually stunning presentation.
- Add a sprinkle of finishing salt: Just before serving, lightly sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the meatloaf to enhance the flavors and add a gourmet touch.
Essential Tools for Making Meatloaf
Food processor: A food processor can be used to finely chop vegetables and mix the meatloaf ingredients together.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the ground beef, ground turkey, and other ingredients to form the meatloaf mixture.
Loaf pan: A loaf pan is used to shape and bake the meatloaf in the oven.
Instant-read meat thermometer: An instant-read meat thermometer is necessary to ensure the meatloaf reaches the proper internal temperature for safe consumption.
Oven: The oven is used to bake the meatloaf until it is fully cooked.
Storing and Freezing Your Meatloaf
Let the meatloaf cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the meatloaf soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, wrap the cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the meatloaf, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Place the wrapped meatloaf in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Frozen meatloaf can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw the meatloaf overnight in the refrigerator.
To reheat the meatloaf, remove the plastic wrap and place the meatloaf in an oven-safe dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. If the meatloaf is frozen, you may need to increase the reheating time to 45-60 minutes.
Alternatively, you can slice the chilled meatloaf and reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
If you have any leftover vegetables or ketchup, store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator and use them within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
How To Reheat Meatloaf Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover meatloaf in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. This will help retain moisture and prevent the meatloaf from drying out. Heat for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
If you prefer a crispy exterior, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of reheating. You can also brush the top of the meatloaf with a little ketchup or barbecue sauce for added flavor and moisture.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place a slice of meatloaf on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help keep the meatloaf moist. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. The exact time will depend on the thickness of the slice and the power of your microwave.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat smaller portions of meatloaf. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place a slice of meatloaf on a toaster oven tray. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
For a tasty twist, try slicing the leftover meatloaf and pan-frying it in a little olive oil or butter. This will give the meatloaf a nice crispy exterior and a tender, moist interior. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until heated through.
If you have a lot of leftover meatloaf, consider repurposing it into a new dish. Crumble the meatloaf and use it as a filling for tacos, burritos, or stuffed peppers. You can also slice the meatloaf and use it to make a hearty sandwich or panini.
Random Fact About Hidden Vegetable Meatloaf
The meatloaf recipe is a great way to sneak in vegetables for picky eaters. The celery, onion, and green bell pepper are finely chopped and mixed into the meatloaf, providing added nutrients and flavor without being easily detected. This makes it a perfect dish for families looking to increase their vegetable intake without sacrificing taste.
Is Making Meatloaf at Home Economical?
This hidden vegetable meatloaf recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of lean ground beef and ground turkey makes it an affordable option. Additionally, the inclusion of rolled oats and vegetables adds nutritional value without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it a budget-friendly choice. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and nutritional content.
Is This Meatloaf Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
The hidden vegetable meatloaf recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional meatloaf, as it incorporates lean ground beef, ground turkey, and hidden vegetables. The addition of celery, onion, and green bell pepper not only adds flavor but also provides essential vitamins and minerals. The use of oats instead of breadcrumbs is a smart choice, as oats are a whole grain and provide fiber. However, the recipe still contains a significant amount of sodium from the ketchup and added salt, which could be a concern for those watching their sodium intake.
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of ketchup used or opt for a low-sodium or no-added-sugar variety
- Replace some of the ground beef with additional ground turkey to further reduce the fat content
- Increase the amount of hidden vegetables by adding grated carrots or zucchini to the mixture
- Use a low-fat or non-fat milk alternative, such as almond milk or yogurt, to reduce the overall fat content
- Experiment with adding other herbs and spices, such as basil or oregano, to enhance the flavor without relying on salt
Editor's Thoughts on This Delicious Meatloaf Recipe
This hidden vegetable meatloaf recipe is a clever way to sneak in extra nutrients without sacrificing flavor. The combination of lean ground beef and turkey, along with the addition of celery, oats, and bell pepper, creates a moist and flavorful meatloaf. The use of ketchup and mustard powder adds a tangy kick, while the inclusion of garlic and parsley enhances the overall taste. However, to elevate this dish even further, consider incorporating additional herbs and spices to add depth of flavor and experimenting with different vegetable combinations to further boost the nutritional value. Overall, this recipe offers a balanced and delicious approach to incorporating more vegetables into a classic comfort food.
Enhance Your Hidden Veggie Meatloaf Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Alternative Recipes Similar to Hidden Vegetable Meatloaf
Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Your Meatloaf Dinner
Why trust this Hidden Veggie Meatloaf Recipe:
This meatloaf recipe is a delicious and nutritious option for a family meal. The combination of lean ground beef and ground turkey provides a healthier alternative to traditional meatloaf. The addition of celery, onion, and green bell pepper not only enhances the flavor but also sneaks in extra vegetables for added nutrition. The use of rolled oats instead of breadcrumbs adds a wholesome twist. With the perfect blend of spices and herbs, this recipe promises a flavorful and satisfying dish that you can trust.
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