Are you tired of boring, dry meatloaves that leave you disappointed? Get ready to revolutionize your dinner game with this mouthwatering Spinach Stuffed Turkey Meat Loaf that combines lean protein, vibrant greens, and irresistible flavors in one incredible dish! This isn't just another meatloaf recipe - it's a culinary adventure that transforms a classic comfort food into a nutritious, gourmet meal that will have your family begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, beaten egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a wooden spoon until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Wash and finely chop fresh spinach leaves, removing any tough stems.
- Divide the turkey mixture into two equal portions. Press half the mixture into the bottom of the prepared loaf pan, creating an even layer.
- Spread the chopped spinach evenly over the first layer of turkey mixture, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Carefully cover the spinach layer with the remaining turkey mixture, sealing the edges and ensuring the spinach is completely enclosed.
- Smooth the top of the meatloaf with a spatula or the back of a spoon to create an even surface.
- Optional: Brush the top of the meatloaf with a light glaze of ketchup or barbecue sauce for added flavor and moisture.
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes slicing easier.
- Slice into thick portions and serve hot with your choice of side dishes such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, use fresh spinach and ensure it's thoroughly dried to prevent excess moisture in the meatloaf.
- Mix the meat mixture gently to avoid overworking the ground turkey, which can make the loaf tough and dense.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee the perfect doneness - 165°F is the magic temperature for food safety and juicy texture.
- Let the meatloaf rest after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
- For extra moisture and flavor, consider adding a glaze of ketchup or barbecue sauce before the final baking stage.
- If you prefer a crispier top, broil the meatloaf for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking to achieve a golden-brown crust.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 110mg
