Skinny Meatloaf

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the lean ground turkey, lean ground beef, oats (or breadcrumbs), chopped onion, minced garlic, applesauce, low-fat milk, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, thyme, black pepper, and salt. Add the egg (or egg substitute) and mix everything together until well combined. You can use your hands or a spoon to gently combine the ingredients, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

Once the mixture is fully combined, transfer it to the prepared loaf pan. Use your hands to shape the mixture into a loaf, ensuring it is evenly spread out. If you prefer a crispier crust, you can also shape the meat mixture into a free-form loaf and place it on a baking sheet.

Step 4: Add the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix the low-sodium ketchup with a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Brush this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This will add a slightly tangy and sweet flavor, giving the meatloaf that classic comforting finish. You can add extra glaze after baking if you prefer more sauce.

Step 5: Bake the Meatloaf

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). You can check the doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the loaf. The meatloaf should be firm and fully cooked.

Step 6: Let it Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender meatloaf. After resting, slice and serve with your favorite healthy side dishes like steamed vegetables, mashed cauliflower, or a light salad.

Why You’ll Love Skinny Meatloaf:

• Lighter and healthier: By using lean ground turkey and ground beef, as well as replacing breadcrumbs with oats and using applesauce for moisture, this version of meatloaf is significantly lower in fat and calories compared to the traditional recipe.
• Packed with flavor: The combination of Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and herbs like thyme and oregano creates a savory depth of flavor that makes every bite delicious.
• Family-friendly: Just like the classic meatloaf, this version is easy to make and is loved by everyone. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies (feel free to add grated carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to the mix).
• Meal prep friendly: Meatloaf is an excellent make-ahead meal. You can prepare it the night before and refrigerate it, then bake it the next day. Leftovers can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
• Versatile: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your preferences, such as using ground chicken for a lighter version or adding your favorite spices for a personal touch.

Tips for the Perfect Skinny Meatloaf:

• Use lean ground meats: To keep this recipe low in fat, be sure to use ground turkey, ground chicken, or lean ground beef. This ensures a lighter meatloaf without sacrificing flavor.
• Add vegetables: If you want to add extra nutrition, consider incorporating finely chopped vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or carrots into the meatloaf mixture. They’ll blend in nicely and boost the dish’s fiber content.
• Don’t overmix: Overmixing the meat mixture can make the meatloaf tough. Mix the ingredients just until they’re combined for a tender, juicy texture.
• Customize the glaze: While a classic ketchup glaze is great, you can also get creative with different toppings. Try a balsamic glaze, mustard-based sauce, or a low-sugar barbecue sauce for a different twist.
• Make it ahead: Skinny meatloaf can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can even freeze it for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply bake it in the oven until heated through.

Final Thoughts

Skinny Meatloaf is proof that you don’t need to sacrifice flavor to enjoy a lighter version of a classic comfort food. With its tender texture, savory seasoning, and moist, delicious bite, this healthier take on meatloaf is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal, meal prepping for the week, or serving it at a family gathering, this dish delivers comfort, nutrition, and flavor all in one.

Try it today and enjoy the deliciousness of meatloaf without the guilt!