Vegetable Meatloaf with Balsamic Glaze Recipe

Vegetable Meatloaf with Balsamic Glaze is a flavorful, healthy twist on the classic meatloaf, incorporating vegetables into the meat mixture and topped with a tangy balsamic glaze. It’s a great way to enjoy a hearty meal with added nutrition from vegetables!

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 lb lean ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken for a leaner version)
• 1 small zucchini, grated
• 1 small carrot, grated
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or use oats for a gluten-free version)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup milk (or a dairy-free alternative)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Balsamic Glaze:

• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:

• Grate the zucchini and carrot. Squeeze out any excess moisture from the zucchini using a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to prevent the meatloaf from becoming too soggy.
• Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.

2. Make the Meatloaf:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey/chicken) with the grated zucchini, carrot, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
• Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf shape.

3. Make the Balsamic Glaze:

• In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey (or brown sugar), and Dijon mustard (if using).
• Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the glaze thickens slightly.

4. Bake the Meatloaf:

• Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and is cooked through.
• During the last 10-15 minutes of baking, brush the top of the meatloaf with the balsamic glaze to create a flavorful, caramelized coating.

5. Serve:

• Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
• Serve the meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Enjoy your Vegetable Meatloaf with Balsamic Glaze—a healthy, delicious, and flavorful twist on the classic!