Are you craving a hearty, comforting meatloaf but looking for a plant-based twist? Look no further! This Impossible Burger meatloaf recipe delivers all the classic flavors and textures you love, without the meat. It's a fantastic option for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone looking for a delicious and healthy meal. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and it's guaranteed to impress even the most skeptical meat-lovers. Get ready to experience the best of both worlds – comfort food with a conscious conscience!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Impossible Burger crumbles
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan option – see tips below)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (vegetarian version recommended)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This simple step ensures easy removal of your perfectly baked meatloaf.
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Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in a little olive oil until softened. This enhances the flavor profile of your meatloaf significantly.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the Impossible Burger crumbles, sautéed onion and garlic, breadcrumbs, ketchup, brown sugar, eggs (or flax eggs), Worcestershire sauce, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until everything is well incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
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Add Moisture: Gradually stir in the vegetable broth until the mixture is moist but not soggy. The right moisture content is key to a juicy and tender meatloaf.
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Shape & Bake: Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through.
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Rest & Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. Serve with your favorite sides – mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad all pair perfectly.
Cooking Tips for the Best Impossible Burger Meatloaf:
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Flax Eggs (Vegan Option): For a vegan version, replace the eggs with 1/4 cup of flaxseed meal mixed with 3/4 cup of water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken before adding to the meatloaf mixture.
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Don't Overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can result in a tough final product. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
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Internal Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked through to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Variations:
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Spicy Meatloaf: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
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Cheesy Meatloaf: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite vegan cheese over the top of the meatloaf during the last 15 minutes of baking.
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Mushroom Meatloaf: Add a cup of finely chopped mushrooms to the meatloaf mixture for an earthy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This Impossible Burger meatloaf recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a healthy and delicious plant-based twist. It's a quick, easy, and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!