This hidden veggie meatloaf is a hearty and flavorful family meal packed with extra nutrition. By blending vegetables into the mixture, you get a moist and delicious meatloaf that even picky eaters will enjoy. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this recipe combines lean ground beef, turkey, and a medley of hidden veggies for a wholesome twist on the classic dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A great way to sneak extra veggies into your family’s meal
Moist, tender texture with lean beef and turkey combination
Simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen
Kid-friendly and healthy without compromising flavor
Freezer-friendly for make-ahead meals

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound lean ground beef
2/3 pound ground turkey
1 egg
3/4 cup finely chopped celery
3/4 cup regular rolled oats
1/2 cup skim milk
1/2 cup ketchup
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1/2 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
1 tablespoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
2/3 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground turkey, egg, celery, rolled oats, skim milk, ketchup, onion, green pepper, parsley, dry mustard, salt, garlic, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined. The mixture will be moist.
Transfer the mixture into a 9×5-inch loaf pan, pressing it in evenly.
Bake for about 1 1/2 hours, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center reads at least 160°F (70°C). Note: The meatloaf may still appear slightly pink inside due to the ketchup.
Allow to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6 people.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Rest time: 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 55 minutes

Variations

Swap ketchup for barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor.
Use ground chicken in place of turkey for a lighter option.
Add shredded carrots or zucchini for extra hidden veggies.
Top with additional ketchup or tomato sauce before baking for a glaze.
Mix in a handful of shredded cheese for a richer, creamier loaf.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat slices in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.
Freeze tightly wrapped meatloaf for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

How do I keep meatloaf from falling apart?

Make sure to include binding ingredients like oats, eggs, or breadcrumbs, and let the loaf rest before slicing.

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the loaf, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, quick oats can be used, but they may create a slightly softer texture.

Do I need to sauté the vegetables first?

No, the finely chopped vegetables cook down while baking, making them tender and flavorful.

Can I make this meatloaf without ketchup?

Yes, substitute tomato sauce or barbecue sauce if preferred.

Why does my meatloaf look pink even when cooked?

The ketchup can cause a pink tint, even if the meat is fully cooked. Always check with a thermometer.

Can I bake this meatloaf without a loaf pan?

Yes, you can shape it into a free-form loaf on a baking sheet for more crispy edges.

What sides go well with meatloaf?

Classic choices include mashed potatoes, green beans, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

How do I make the meatloaf more moist?

Avoid overmixing the meat and consider adding a splash more milk or finely shredded zucchini.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in two loaf pans. Adjust baking time if needed.

Conclusion

This hidden veggie meatloaf is a wholesome, comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners. Packed with protein and vegetables, it’s a clever way to serve a nutritious dish that even picky eaters will love. Easy to make, store, and reheat, this recipe is a must-have for your dinner rotation.

Ezabella