Craving comfort food without the guilt? This Weight Watchers-friendly meatloaf recipe delivers all the juicy, savory goodness of a classic meatloaf, but with a significantly lighter footprint. It's perfect for a busy weeknight – quick to prepare, easy to bake, and satisfying enough to leave everyone happy. This healthy and delicious recipe is a testament to the fact that homemade cooking doesn't have to mean hours in the kitchen or compromising on flavor. Get ready to enjoy a guilt-free, delicious meal the whole family will adore!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground turkey (93% lean or higher)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats (quick-cooking)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup low-sodium tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan (approximately 9x5 inches). This simple step ensures easy removal of your perfectly baked meatloaf.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground turkey, rolled oats, onion, green bell pepper, egg, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
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Shape the Loaf: Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Try to make it as even as possible for consistent cooking.
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Bake: Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through. This guarantees a safe and perfectly cooked meatloaf every time.
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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 meatloaf. Serve with your favorite sides – a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables would be perfect complements.
Tips for Success:
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can make it tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to add other finely chopped vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to increase the nutritional value.
Variations:
- Cheesy Meatloaf: Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the meatloaf mixture for extra flavor and richness.
- Spicy Meatloaf: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Mediterranean Meatloaf: Add 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese, 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximately):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 (depending on serving size and ingredients)
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This easy recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meal options. It's perfect for meal prepping, making it a time-saving solution for busy weeknights. Enjoy your delicious and healthy homemade meatloaf!