Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's also good for you? Then look no further! This beef and turkey meatloaf recipe is the perfect solution. It's a delicious and healthy twist on a classic, packed with flavor and surprisingly easy to make. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a quick dinner idea that the whole family will love. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
This recipe yields a delicious, 6-serving meatloaf. Adjust ingredient quantities accordingly if you need to serve more or fewer people.
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean or higher recommended)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Prepare the meat mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef and ground turkey. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until just combined.
Shape and bake: Carefully transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Shape it into an even loaf.
Bake to perfection: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here – it ensures perfectly cooked meatloaf every time!
Let it rest: Once cooked, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.
Tips for the Best Meatloaf:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the meat mixture will make the meatloaf tough. Just mix until the ingredients are combined.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through.
- Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps to keep it moist and juicy.
- Get creative with toppings: Try adding a glaze during the last 15 minutes of baking for extra flavor. A simple glaze can be made with ketchup, brown sugar, and a dash of mustard.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Finely chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers can be added to the meat mixture for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Cheese please!: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This beef and turkey meatloaf is a delicious and healthy meal option perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. The combination of lean ground beef and turkey makes it a relatively healthy dish, while the flavorful ingredients ensure it's anything but boring. It’s a simple yet satisfying recipe that is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!