Hidden Veggie Meatloaf Recipe

Cook Time: 90 minutes

Meatloaf Recipe

Ingredients (for 6 servings):

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• lb ground turkey
• 1 egg
• cup finely chopped celery
• cup regular rolled oats
• cup skim milk
• cup ketchup
• cup finely chopped onion
• cup finely chopped green bell pepper
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
• teaspoon salt
• teaspoon minced garlic
• teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325F (165C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground turkey, egg, celery, rolled oats, skim milk, ketchup, onion, green bell pepper, parsley, dry mustard, salt, minced garlic, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well incorporated. The mixture will be moist.
3. Transfer the mixture into a 9x5-inch loaf pan, spreading it out evenly.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the center of the meatloaf reads 160F (70C). The meatloaf may still appear slightly pink inside due to the ketchup.

Tips:

• If you prefer not to see the vegetables in the meatloaf, blend them with the milk using a food processor. This will give a smoother texture and keep the veggies hidden from picky eaters.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 310
• Total Fat: 15g (19% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 5g (25% DV)
• Cholesterol: 118mg (39% DV)
• Sodium: 590mg (26% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 16g (6% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (7% DV)
• Total Sugars: 7g
• Protein: 28g (57% DV)
• Vitamin C: 15mg (17% DV)
• Calcium: 70mg (5% DV)
• Iron: 3mg (17% DV)
• Potassium: 524mg (11% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

This flavorful meatloaf made with ground turkey, lean ground beef, bell pepper, onion, and celery is a great way to sneak veggies into your unsuspecting kids.

History of Hidden Veggie Meatloaf

Meatloaf is a classic American comfort food with roots dating back to the 19th century. Originally a way to stretch meat during tough economic times, meatloaf has evolved into a versatile dish with numerous variations. The idea of hiding vegetables in meatloaf became popular as parents sought creative ways to get picky children to eat more vegetables. This recipe combines traditional meatloaf with finely chopped or blended vegetables, making it easier for kids to consume healthy ingredients without noticing them. Its a modern twist on a time-honored dish.

Regional Variations

In the United States, meatloaf is a popular dish found in many regional cuisines, from the South to the Midwest. The addition of vegetables in meatloaf, however, is not limited to any specific region. While the use of vegetables such as onions, peppers, and celery is common in most American meatloaf recipes, some regions have their own twists. In the Northeast, for example, its common to add breadcrumbs or even potatoes to meatloaf, whereas in the South, some might use a glaze of ketchup or BBQ sauce. The Hidden Veggie Meatloaf specifically focuses on incorporating vegetables that may not be traditionally associated with the dish, offering a new approach to an American classic.

What Makes It Different?

While traditional meatloaf recipes often focus on meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, the Hidden Veggie Meatloaf differentiates itself by blending in vegetables such as celery, onions, and bell peppers. These ingredients are finely chopped or blended into the meat mixture, making them virtually invisible to the eye. This technique is ideal for families with picky eaters or for those looking to sneak in extra nutrients. Unlike other meatloafs that may appear heavy or dry, the addition of vegetables helps to keep the meatloaf moist and flavorful.

Where is Hidden Veggie Meatloaf Typically Served?

Hidden Veggie Meatloaf is typically served as a family dinner, perfect for a cozy weeknight meal. Its a great option for busy parents looking for a nutritious yet easy-to-make dish. It can also be served in schools or daycare settings, where getting kids to eat vegetables might be a challenge. The recipes versatility allows it to be paired with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a simple green salad. Some families enjoy serving it with a side of ketchup or a tangy tomato-based sauce.

Fun Facts About Hidden Veggie Meatloaf

• In some variations of Hidden Veggie Meatloaf, you can sneak in even more nutritious ingredients like spinach, zucchini, or carrots.
• Meatloaf has often been a favorite in American school cafeterias, thanks to its affordability and ability to feed large groups of people.
• Some versions of this recipe include grated cheese or spices like curry powder, offering a different twist to the flavor profile.
• Another interesting fact is that meatloaf, when served in a muffin tin, can be turned into a fun, individual-sized meal thats even easier for kids to enjoy!

Conclusion

Hidden Veggie Meatloaf is an innovative way to incorporate more vegetables into your family's diet while still enjoying a beloved American dish. Whether you're trying to sneak in extra nutrients for picky eaters or just looking for a fresh take on meatloaf, this recipe offers a delicious, healthy option that everyone can enjoy.

FAQ about Hidden Veggie Meatloaf Recipe

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