Meatloaf is an American dinner classic. This Healthy Turkey Meatloaf is a lighter version the whole family will love, even if they’re gluten-free. No white bread here, so it’s paleo-friendly too.
Healthy Meatloaf Recipe
Nutritionally smart, the vegetables in this Turkey Meatloaf recipe help keep the meatloaf nicely moist {plus, the kids won’t even know they’re there!}. And the flaxseed packs a powerful punch since there’s some evidence it may help reduce your risk of heart disease, cancer, stroke, and diabetes. Ka-pow!
You have to try this recipe!! It’s gluten-free, Paleo-friendly, Whole30 compliant, and just so darn delicious!
To plan for busy weeknights when the kids are going in every different direction and need a quick and healthy meal, we make several mini meatloaves and freeze them.
Then I pull a few from the freezer, and voila, dinner! This versatile Mini Loaf Pan
is perfect for meatloaf or this banana bread recipe.
Tips for Making a Healthy Turkey Meatloaf
- Depending on your family’s preference, you can make this recipe with ground beef as well.
- Don’t over-mix the meat mixture. That will make it denser and potentially tough.
- If spicy is your thing, add some chipotle or sriracha to the tomato sauce or ketchup.
- If you want to make this recipe quicker, divide the meat mixture into four smaller loaves and cook them for about 25 to 30 minutes.
- We like making these in mini loaf pans. They’re easy to eat, freeze and thaw!
- Add any of your favorite vegetables to pack an additional nutritional punch.
- Freeze your leftovers to use when you need a quick lunch or dinner. Or better yet, make a double batch and freeze one for later.
Turkey Meatloaf
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or olive oil)
- 1/2 yellow or red onion (finely chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 teaspoon chili powder (mild or hot)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (ground)
- 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce or 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup zucchini (grated (about 1 small zucchini))
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste mixed with 1 teaspoon coconut oil (or ketchup)
- 1/3 cup ground flaxseed (optional, this will help bind the meatloaf)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the coconut oil. Add the onions, garlic, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cinnamon if using. Cook 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until the onions soften and begin to brown.
- Stir in the soy sauce or salt. Transfer entire mixture to a large bowl.
- Add the zucchini and toss. Add the turkey, egg, and optional flax. Gently mix.
- Place mixture into a loaf pan or shape into a loaf and place on a baking pan. Spoon tomato sauce or ketchup on top.
- Bake 45-50 minutes until the meatloaf is firm around the edges and cooked through. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Don't over mix the meat mixture. That will make it more dense and potentially tough.
- If spicy is your thing, add some chipotle or sriracha to the tomato sauce or ketchup.
- If I want to make this recipe quicker, divide the meat mixture into four smaller loaves and cook them for about 25 to 30 minutes.
Nutrition
Looking for more healthy and delicious meal inspiration? Try these Pinterest favorite Low Carb Dinners.
Can comfort food really be healthy? Sure it can! Try this Turkey Meatloaf recipe and let me know.
We also love this Crockpot Turkey Chili and these Chicken Lettuce Wraps!
