Superb Meat Loaf(Low-Fat)
A flavorful low-fat meat loaf packed with fresh vegetables, perfect for a hearty yet healthy family meal, offering moist texture and savory taste throughout.
Ingredients
Instructions
- If possible, put the vegetables through a blender or grinder.
- If not, dice them very finely. The amount of vegetables will equal about 1 cup.
- Combine the vegetables with ground beef, tomato juice, and seasonings.
- Pack the mixture into a glass pan and bake at 350°F for about 1 hour and 10 minutes.
- Immediately pour off all liquid from the meat loaf.
- Cool the meat loaf slightly before slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lower fat option, consider using lean ground turkey instead of ground beef. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added moisture and nutrition. If you prefer a different flavor, try incorporating herbs like oregano or thyme, which complement beef recipes well. Blending the vegetables ensures they meld seamlessly into the meat loaf, enhancing both texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the meat loaf and serve it with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with Ethel'S Brown Rice for a hearty option. Consider topping it with a homemade tomato sauce or a dollop of your favorite condiment for added flavor. Leftovers can be used in a sandwich or as a hearty filling for a wrap.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the meat loaf cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing slices in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel, heating until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Superb Meat Loaf(Low-Fat) contains roughly 308 calories, with 16g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (220% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (104% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1651mg per serving (72% 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 a different type of meat for this meat loaf?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative to suit your dietary preferences. Just ensure that the meat has a similar fat content to keep the meat loaf moist and flavorful.
How can I make this meat loaf more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, try adding Worcestershire sauce, mustard, or even a splash of soy sauce to the mixture. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can also add a nice touch. Experimenting with seasonings can help you achieve your preferred taste.
What can I do with leftover meat loaf?
Leftover meat loaf is versatile! You can slice it for sandwiches, crumble it into a salad, or use it as a filling for tacos. It can also be reheated and served with a side of vegetables or mashed potatoes for a quick meal.
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).