Description
A healthy and flavorful Turkey Quinoa Meatloaf combining lean ground turkey, nutty quinoa, vegetables, fresh herbs, and plant-based cheese to create a comforting, protein-rich, and gluten-free dinner perfect for the entire family.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- 1/2 cup plant-based cheese (plant-based), shredded
- 2 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1 tsp natural gelling agent
- 4 slices smoked turkey bacon
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Quinoa and Vegetables: Cook the quinoa according to package instructions until fluffy and let it cool. Meanwhile, sauté the diced onions, minced garlic, shredded carrots, and chopped spinach in a pan until tender and fragrant to develop the base flavors.
- Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, cooled cooked quinoa, sautéed vegetables, shredded plant-based cheese (plant-based), chopped fresh parsley and thyme, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), and natural gelling agent. Season with salt and pepper. Gently mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, taking care not to overmix to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Shape and Add Smoked Turkey Bacon: Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan or shape it by hand on a lined baking sheet. Lay smoked turkey bacon strips on top of the loaf or weave them around it to add smoky flavor and an appealing presentation.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the meatloaf at 375°F (190°C) for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The top should be nicely browned. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain moisture and improve slicing ease.
Notes
- Do not overmix the ingredients to maintain a tender texture.
- Use fresh herbs like parsley and thyme to enhance aroma and flavor.
- Use a natural gelling agent to bind ingredients while keeping moisture.
- Let the meatloaf rest before slicing to avoid crumbling.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 of meatloaf)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Turkey, Quinoa, Meatloaf, Gluten Free, Plant-Based Cheese, Healthy Dinner, High Protein
