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Veggie Loaded Meatloaf

Veggie Loaded Meatloaf: A Savory Twist on Comfort Food

Veggie Loaded Meatloaf combines comforting flavors with hidden nutritious veggies, perfect for families.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 2 pounds Lean Ground Beef Consider mixing with ground pork for extra moisture.
  • 1 cup Carrots Finely chopped or pureed.
  • 1 cup Red Bell Pepper Can swap with green bell pepper.
  • 1 medium Onion Finely chopped and sautéed.
  • 1 cup Celery
  • 1 cup Tomato Juice V-8 juice works well.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil For sautéing veggies.
For the Seasoning Mix
  • 1 tablespoon Seasoning Mix Includes black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, dried basil, kosher salt, dried thyme, onion powder, and optional ancho chile powder.
  • 1/2 cup Ketchup/Chili Sauce Opt for low-sugar varieties.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • baking sheet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Veggie Loaded Meatloaf
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
    Veggie Loaded Meatloaf
  2. Mix the dry seasoning mix in a small bowl and set aside.
    Veggie Loaded Meatloaf
  3. Create the topping by mixing ketchup, black pepper, and salt in another bowl.
    Veggie Loaded Meatloaf
  4. Sauté onions, celery, carrots, and red bell pepper in olive oil for 3-4 minutes, then stir in half of the seasoning mix.
    Veggie Loaded Meatloaf
  5. Combine the sautéed vegetable mixture with ground beef, tomato juice, and remaining seasoning mix in a large bowl.
    Veggie Loaded Meatloaf
  6. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf on the baking sheet and brush the topping over it.
    Veggie Loaded Meatloaf
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, then rotate and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F–165°F.
    Veggie Loaded Meatloaf
  8. Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
    Veggie Loaded Meatloaf

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Ensure vegetables are finely chopped and sautéed to enhance flavor and prevent moisture issues. Resting the meatloaf after baking maximizes flavor and makes slicing easier.

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