Are you tired of the same old beef meatloaf? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make? Then get ready to be amazed! This Beyond Beef Meatloaf recipe offers a fantastic vegetarian alternative, packed with flavor and texture, without sacrificing any of the comforting goodness you love about a traditional meatloaf. It's a perfect weeknight dinner, ideal for meal prepping, and guaranteed to impress even the most dedicated carnivores. This recipe is a winner for healthy meals, quick dinner ideas, and homemade cooking enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients:
- 1 package (14 oz) Beyond Beef plant-based ground meat
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms
- 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
-
Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
-
Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the mushrooms and bell pepper and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
-
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the Beyond Beef, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
-
Shape the Loaf: Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
-
Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover it with foil.
-
Rest & Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Tips for the Best Beyond Beef Meatloaf:
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can result in a tough loaf. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs create a lighter and crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Glaze it Up: For extra flavor, brush the meatloaf with extra ketchup or a homemade BBQ sauce during the last 15 minutes of baking.
- Add Some Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or spinach to your meatloaf for extra nutrients and flavor.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Meatloaf: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture for a spicy kick.
- Mediterranean Meatloaf: Swap the oregano and thyme for 1 tablespoon of dried Italian herbs and add 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese.
- Cheesy Meatloaf: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the top of the meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Beyond Beef Meatloaf recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and easy recipes that are also healthy. It's perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, offering a satisfying and flavorful meal that's both delicious and good for you. Try it today and experience the best of both worlds!