Roasted Vegetable Meatloaf with Quinoa (Gluten-Free)
Try this Roasted Vegetable Meatloaf with Quinoa Gluten-Free recipe.
Try this Roasted Vegetable Meatloaf with Quinoa Gluten-Free recipe.
- 2 eggs
- 2 red bell peppers
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 red onion
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp dried basil
- 1 large zucchini
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves crushed garlic
- 1 lb ground sausage (i use turkey pork is fine)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa*
- 3/4 cup gf ketchup divided
- 2 tbsp tamari soy sauce
- Carbohydrate 7.23847195838407 g
- Cholesterol 45.28035145 mg
- Fat 11.1739794376992 g
- Fiber 1.4369374884201 g
- Protein 15.3171514476801 g
- Saturated Fat 4.66311730305093 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (248g)
- Sodium 367.735979672791 mg
- Sugar 5.80153446996397 g
- Trans Fat 1.44126277299753 g
- Calories 194 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees.
- Finely dice the vegetables, and lightly brush with oil.
- Line a baking sheet with foil and spread the vegetables out on the foil.
- Place in oven, bake for 25-30 minutes or until slightly roasted.
- Remove from oven and let cool.
- Turn down the oven to 350 degrees.
- Meanwhile, in a large bowl, mix together both ground beef and sausage, quinoa, basil, 1 cup of the vegetables, and parmesan cheese.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until beaten, and add ½ cup ketchup, red wine vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic.
- Add mixture to the meat, and fold together until well combined.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining ketchup and balsamic vinegar. Set aside.
- Place mixture inside a 9 inch loaf pan.
- Place inside oven, and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven, skim some of the fat off the top, and spoon the balsamic glaze over the top.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 25-30 minutes.
- Let meatloaf sit for at least 10 minutes before serving.
- Serve with remaining roasted vegetables.
Roasted Vegetable Meatloaf with Quinoa: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a Herculean task. Between school pick-ups, work deadlines, and the endless to-do list, a simple, satisfying, and nutritious dinner is a lifesaver. That's where this Roasted Vegetable Meatloaf with Quinoa comes in. It's a recipe that I've tweaked and perfected over the years, designed to maximize flavor while minimizing prep time and cleanup. It's also incredibly versatile – adjust the vegetables based on what's fresh at the market, or what your family enjoys most.
This meatloaf is far from your grandma's – it’s lighter, healthier, and bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. The addition of quinoa adds a fantastic protein and texture boost, making it a complete and satisfying meal. The roasting of the vegetables brings out their natural sweetness, creating a beautiful depth of flavor that complements the savory meatloaf perfectly. It's a dish that's both impressive and surprisingly easy to make, proving that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming.
Why this recipe works:
- Gluten-Free: Perfect for those with gluten sensitivities or those who simply prefer gluten-free options.
- Packed with Vegetables: Sneak in extra veggies without compromising on taste. The roasted vegetables add a delicious sweetness and texture.
- Quinoa Power: Quinoa provides a boost of protein and fiber, making this a more nutritious and filling meatloaf.
- Flavorful Glaze: The balsamic glaze adds a touch of tanginess that balances the richness of the meat.
- Make-Ahead Potential: You can roast the vegetables ahead of time and assemble the meatloaf later in the week for a quicker weeknight dinner.
Tips and Variations:
- Vegetable Swap: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Carrots, broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant all work wonderfully.
- Meat Choice: Use ground turkey, chicken, or a combination of meats for a leaner option. I often use a blend of turkey and pork for a richer flavor.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Serving Suggestions: This meatloaf is delicious served with a side of mashed sweet potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a simple green salad.
This Roasted Vegetable Meatloaf with Quinoa is more than just a recipe; it's a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients transformed into a truly delicious and satisfying meal. It's the kind of dish that brings the family together around the table, a comforting and nourishing experience that makes even the busiest weeknights feel a little more manageable. It's a recipe I wholeheartedly recommend, and I know it will become a staple in your kitchen too.
So, the next time you're looking for a healthy and flavorful weeknight dinner, give this recipe a try. It's a crowd-pleaser that's sure to impress, even if you're short on time. You won't regret it!
