Skinny Meatloaf
Looking for a healthier take on a classic dinner? This skinny meatloaf is a delicious, lighter option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Packed with lean beef and homemade whole wheat bread crumbs, it’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare.
The sweet ketchup glaze on top adds a rich, comforting finish, while keeping calories in check. With just 214 calories and 5 grams of fat per serving, this meatloaf is a smart choice for any weeknight dinner.
Whether you’re looking to meal prep or have a tasty leftover sandwich, this skinny meatloaf is perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and enjoy a healthier version of a beloved comfort food!
Skinny Meatloaf Ingredients
The foundation of this Skinny Meatloaf begins with extra-lean ground beef, offering a rich, hearty base while keeping the dish light and flavorful. Homemade whole wheat bread crumbs add texture and a subtle nuttiness, while egg whites provide moisture without the added fat.
Onions bring a savory depth, balancing the tangy sweetness of ketchup and the bold kick of mustard. Worcestershire sauce enhances the umami, rounding out the flavors, while a simple seasoning of salt and pepper ensures everything comes together perfectly.
Skinny Meatloaf: Recipe Tips
- Moisture Control
To ensure your Skinny Meatloaf stays juicy, avoid over-mixing the meat mixture. Overworking the ingredients can result in a dense texture. Use your hands gently to combine the beef, bread crumbs, and seasonings, preserving moisture without compromising the lightness. - Customize Your Glaze
Feel free to experiment with the glaze! While the sweet ketchup-mustard combo is a classic, you can easily swap in other flavors like balsamic vinegar or barbecue sauce for a unique twist. Just be mindful of the added sugars or acids to maintain balance in the overall flavor profile. - Make Ahead and Freeze
This meatloaf freezes well. If you’re prepping for a busy week, form the loaf, add the glaze, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. When you’re ready to cook, bake straight from the freezer, adjusting the baking time as needed.
What to Serve with Skinny Meatloaf
- Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers, make the perfect side dish. Their natural sweetness complements the savory flavor of the meatloaf, while their slight char adds an additional layer of texture and depth. - Mashed Cauliflower
For a low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, serve the meatloaf alongside creamy mashed cauliflower. Its smooth texture and mild flavor pair beautifully with the meatloaf, and it’s an excellent way to keep the dish light and satisfying. - Simple Green Salad
A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the meatloaf. Choose greens like arugula or spinach, and toss in a handful of cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions for a burst of freshness and crunch.
FAQ: Skinny Meatloaf
- Can I use lean ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! You can substitute lean ground turkey for the beef in this recipe. It will be a slightly lighter option, though the flavor and texture may vary slightly. - How do I prevent the meatloaf from becoming too dry?
To keep the meatloaf moist, avoid overcooking it. The lean beef used in this recipe is prone to drying out if baked too long. Be sure to rest the meatloaf for 10 minutes before slicing, allowing the juices to redistribute. - Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the whole wheat bread for gluten-free bread to make this meatloaf gluten-free. Homemade gluten-free breadcrumbs are easy to make using gluten-free bread. - How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the meatloaf for longer storage—just be sure to wrap it tightly to preserve its freshness.
Skinny Meatloaf
Ingredients
- Ingredients for Meatloaf:
- 1 pound 96% extra lean ground beef
- 1½ slices whole wheat bread crusts removed
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 2 egg whites or 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon spicy brown or yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Ingredients for Topping:
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon spicy mustard or yellow mustard
- 2 teaspoons packed brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with foil. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef.
- To prepare the bread crumbs, remove the crust from the bread slices, break the bread into pieces, and pulse in a blender or food processor until the bread is finely crumbled.
- Add the homemade bread crumbs, onions, egg whites, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and freshly ground pepper to the ground beef. Mix everything together by hand until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf by hand and place it on the prepared baking sheet. The loaf should measure about 12 inches by 4 inches.
- In a small bowl, combine the topping ingredients: ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar. Mix well, then spread evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake for 55 minutes, then remove from the oven and let rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
- Cut the meatloaf into 10 slices. This recipe yields 5 servings, with 2 slices per serving.
