Looking for a deliciously healthy twist on a classic comfort food? Look no further than this Turkey Meatloaf with Quinoa! Packed with protein and flavor, this recipe will not only satisfy your taste buds but also nourish your body. Imagine a perfectly baked meatloaf, infused with the savory goodness of ground turkey and the nutty texture of quinoa, all topped with a luscious glaze of ketchup. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping meals for the week, this dish yields eight hearty servings that are sure to impress. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this wholesome, mouthwatering recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a medium saucepan, cook 1 cup of quinoa according to package instructions. Typically, this involves rinsing the quinoa under cold water, then combining it with 2 cups of water in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool.
- While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Chop 1/2 onion finely and mince 2 cloves of garlic. You can use a knife or a food processor for this step, depending on your preference.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, cooked quinoa, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, and 1 egg. The egg acts as a binder to hold the meatloaf together.
- Add 1/4 cup of ketchup to the mixture. This adds moisture and flavor to the meatloaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined. You can use your hands or a wooden spoon for this step.
- Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf shape. Smooth the top with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Spread an additional layer of ketchup on top of the meatloaf for added flavor and moisture during cooking. This creates a delicious glaze.
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 165°F (74°C) and the top is browned.
- Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a more flavorful and moist meatloaf.
- Slice the meatloaf into 8 equal servings and serve warm. It pairs well with sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, cook the quinoa in advance and store it in the fridge. This way, you can whip up the meatloaf in no time during a busy weeknight.
- Seasoning is Key: Don't be shy with the salt and pepper! Season each layer of your meatloaf for maximum flavor. You can also experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano for a unique twist.
- Use Lean Turkey: Opt for lean ground turkey to keep the meatloaf moist without adding unnecessary fat. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can mix in a bit of ground beef or pork.
- Rest Before Slicing: Allow the meatloaf to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. This step is crucial for keeping it juicy and preventing it from falling apart when you slice it.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to get creative with your glaze! Instead of just ketchup, consider mixing in a bit of barbecue sauce or mustard for an extra kick of flavor.
- Perfect Pairings: Serve your turkey meatloaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. A fresh salad can also balance out the meal beautifully.
- Leftover Magic: This meatloaf makes fantastic leftovers! Slice it up and use it in sandwiches or wraps for a quick lunch option.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 95mg
