Are you craving a comforting, classic meatloaf but watching your weight? This delicious turkey meatloaf recipe is the perfect solution! It's surprisingly easy to make, packed with flavor, and surprisingly healthy, making it a fantastic addition to your weekly meal plan. Say goodbye to heavy, greasy meatloaf and hello to a lighter, leaner version that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal. This recipe is designed to be Weight Watchers friendly, focusing on lean protein and healthy ingredients. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean or higher)
- 1/2 cup quick-cooking oats (rolled oats work too!)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup ketchup (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. Finely chop the onion and green bell pepper. If using rolled oats, pulse them briefly in a food processor to reduce their size.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground turkey, oats, onion, green bell pepper, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
Step 3: Shape and Bake
Gently shape the meatloaf mixture into a loaf in the prepared pan.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Step 5: Rest and 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.
Serving Suggestions:
This healthy turkey meatloaf is incredibly versatile. Serve it with a side of mashed sweet potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a complete and balanced meal. A dollop of your favorite low-fat gravy adds extra richness without significantly impacting the calorie count.
Tips and Variations:
- Add some spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
- Get creative with veggies: Add finely chopped mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Make it cheesy: Sprinkle shredded low-fat cheddar cheese over the top before baking.
- Meal prep friendly: This meatloaf is perfect for meal prepping. Make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 (depending on ingredients and serving size)
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Moderate
Please note that this nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This recipe is a fantastic example of healthy eating without sacrificing taste. It's a quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights, and a delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food while staying on track with your healthy eating goals. Enjoy!