Skinny Meatloaf

 Skinny Meatloaf

Here’s a delicious, **Skinny Meatloaf** recipe — a lighter twist on the classic comfort food, with all the flavor and none of the guilt. Perfect for a hearty, satisfying dinner that fits into a healthier lifestyle.

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## 🥩 Skinny Meatloaf Recipe

### ⭐ Why You'll Love It

This meatloaf is juicy, tender, and full of savory flavor — yet it's made with lean ground meat, wholesome veggies, and clever ingredient swaps to keep calories and fat in check. It’s ideal for meal prep and weeknight dinners.

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### 🛒 Ingredients & Their Roles

* **1 lb lean ground turkey or lean ground beef (93% lean or higher)**

  → Provides the protein base without excess fat.

* **1 small onion, finely chopped**

  → Adds moisture, flavor, and texture.

* **1/2 cup finely grated carrot**

  → Boosts nutrition and natural sweetness.

* **1/2 cup rolled oats (or whole wheat breadcrumbs)**

  → Binds the meatloaf while adding fiber and keeping it gluten-free (if using oats).

* **1/4 cup skim milk (or unsweetened almond milk)**

  → Moistens the oats for a tender texture.

* **2 tablespoons tomato paste**

  → Adds depth and richness.

* **2 tablespoons low-sodium Worcestershire sauce**

  → Brings umami and a savory punch.

* **1 egg**

  → Binds everything together.

* **1 teaspoon garlic powder**

  → For subtle aromatic flavor.

* **1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or thyme, oregano, basil mix)**

  → Adds flavor without extra calories.

* **Salt and pepper to taste**

#### For the Skinny Glaze:

* **2 tablespoons ketchup**

* **1 teaspoon mustard**

* **1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey (optional for sweetness)**

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### 👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. **Preheat the oven** to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment or spray with nonstick cooking spray.

2. **Soften the oats:** In a small bowl, mix oats and milk. Let sit for 5 minutes so the oats absorb the liquid.

3. **Mix the ingredients:**

   In a large bowl, combine ground meat, onion, carrot, soaked oats, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, egg, garlic powder, herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined — don’t overmix or the loaf can become dense.

4. **Shape the loaf:**

   Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan or shape it by hand on a baking sheet lined with parchment.

5. **Prepare the glaze:**

   Mix ketchup, mustard, and maple syrup. Spread evenly over the top of the loaf.

6. **Bake:**

   Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.

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### 💡 Pro Tips

* **Don’t overmix** the meat mixture — it can lead to a tough loaf.

* **Use a thermometer** to ensure it's fully cooked without overbaking.

* Add finely chopped mushrooms or zucchini to sneak in more veggies.

* For individual servings, form into mini loaves and reduce bake time to 25–30 minutes.

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### 🍽 Serving Suggestions

* Serve with **roasted garlic mashed cauliflower** or **steamed green beans** for a low-carb side.

* Top leftovers with a fried egg for a protein-rich breakfast!

* Try it in a whole-grain sandwich with lettuce and mustard.