Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a comforting, healthy meal that's surprisingly quick to make? Then look no further! This Turkey Oatmeal Meatloaf recipe offers a delicious and nutritious twist on a classic comfort food. It's packed with flavor, surprisingly moist, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This easy recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering a delicious dish the whole family will love. Get ready to experience meatloaf like never before!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean or higher)
- 1 cup rolled oats (quick-cooking or old-fashioned)
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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 and prevents sticking.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the milk and beaten egg. This ensures even distribution throughout the meatloaf.
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Mix the Meatloaf: Add the ground turkey, oats, onion, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the wet ingredients. Gently mix everything together until just combined. Overmixing can result in a tough 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 165°F (74°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 meatloaf.
Tips for the Best Turkey Oatmeal Meatloaf:
- Don't Overmix: Gently combine the ingredients. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to add finely chopped vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Customize Your Glaze: Experiment with different glazes! BBQ sauce, brown sugar glaze, or even a simple honey mustard would be delicious.
Variations:
- Spicy Meatloaf: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Meatloaf: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite cheese blend before baking.
- Herb-infused Meatloaf: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, parsley, or oregano.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. This healthy and delicious meal is a great option for a quick dinner, offering a balanced combination of protein, carbohydrates and healthy fats. Enjoy this easy recipe and its many variations! This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of best recipes and easy recipes for healthy meals. It's a true testament to the power of simple, homemade cooking.