Turkey and Quinoa Meatloaf

**Turkey and Quinoa Meatloaf** *A healthy, protein-packed twist on classic meatloaf, made with lean ground turkey and nutrient-rich q uinoa.* **Prep Time:** 15 minutes **Cook Time:** 50-60 minutes **Total Time:** 1 hour 10 minutes **Servings:** 6 ### **Ingredients:** - 1 lb (450g) **lean ground turkey** (93% lean) - 1 cup **cooked quinoa** (about ½ cup uncooked) - 1 small **onion**, finely diced - 2 **garlic cloves**, minced - 1 large **egg**, lightly beaten - ¼ cup **breadcrumbs** (plain or whole wheat) - ¼ cup **grated Parmesan cheese** - 2 tbsp **ketchup** (plus extra for topping) - 1 tbsp **Worcestershire sauce** - 1 tsp **dried oregano** - 1 tsp **dried thyme** - ½ tsp **paprika** - ½ tsp **salt** - ¼ tsp **black pepper** - 2 tbsp **fresh parsley**, chopped (optional)

### **Instructions:** #### **1. Prep the Quinoa:** - Cook ½ cup quinoa according to package instructions (usually 1:2 quinoa-to-water ratio). Fluff with a fork and let cool slightly. #### **2. Preheat Oven:** - Preheat oven to **375°F (190°C)**. Lightly grease a **9x5-inch loaf pan** or line with parchment paper. #### **3. Mix Ingredients:** - In a large bowl, combine: - Ground turkey - Cooked quinoa - Onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, pepper, and parsley (if using). - Mix gently with hands or a spoon until just combined (do not overmix). #### **4. Shape & Bake:** - Transfer mixture to the loaf pan, pressing gently to shape. - Spread **1-2 tbsp ketchup** on top for glaze (optional). - Bake for **50-60 minutes**, or until internal temperature reaches **165°F (74°C)**.

#### **5. Rest & Serve:** - Let meatloaf rest **10 minutes** before slicing. Garnish with extra parsley if desired. ### **Serving Suggestions:** - Pair with **mashed potatoes**, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad. - Leftovers store well in the fridge for **3-4 days** or freeze for up to **3 months**. ### **Nutrition (per serving):** Calories: ~220 | Protein: 22g | Carbs: 15g | Fat: 8g | Fiber: 2g Enjoy this flavorful, healthier take on meatloaf! Let me know if you'd like any modifications. 😊