Broccoli-Cheddar Meat Loaf
Juicy turkey meat loaf packed with cheesy broccoli and crunchy cracker crust, offering a savory blend of flavors. Perfect for a comforting family dinner or potluck, this dish combines the richness of cheddar with the freshness of broccoli, all rolled into a hearty, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Finely roll 12 crackers.
- Mix cracker crumbs, ground turkey, chopped onion, 2 tablespoons chili sauce, chopped parsley, and beaten egg until well combined.
- On waxed paper, pat the meat mixture into a 12 x 8-inch rectangle.
- Reserve 2 tablespoons of shredded cheese; sprinkle remaining cheese and drained chopped broccoli onto the meat mixture, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
- Coarsely break the remaining 12 crackers.
- Sprinkle the broken crackers over the broccoli, pressing lightly into the meat mixture.
- Starting at the short end, roll up the meat mixture jellyroll fashion using waxed paper to help roll; seal the ends.
- Place the loaf into a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50 to 55 minutes.
- During the last 5 minutes of baking, spread the remaining 2 tablespoons chili sauce over the meatloaf and sprinkle with the reserved cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating minced garlic or bell peppers into the meat mixture. If you don’t have ground turkey, ground chicken or beef can be used as substitutes. For a gluten-free version, replace the crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or add spices to customize the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Broccoli-Cheddar Meat Loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or a crisp garden salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Creamed Turkey In Pastry Shell for a comforting dinner option. For a lighter touch, consider serving it with steamed vegetables or a zesty coleslaw. Leftovers make excellent sandwiches for lunch, too!
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it in a microwave-safe dish, covering it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli-Cheddar Meat Loaf contains roughly 1653 calories, with 44g protein, 312g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (185% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (178% of the Daily Value), and potassium (106% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1293mg per serving (56% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli. Just steam or blanch it until tender, then chop it finely before adding it to the meat mixture. This will enhance the flavor and texture of your meatloaf.
What can I serve with this meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs well with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple side salad. For a comforting meal, consider serving it along with homemade mac and cheese.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
To ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach at least 165°F (74°C). Additionally, the meatloaf should be firm and no longer pink in the center.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).