11 Vegetable-Loaded Meatloaf Recipes With Finely Chopped Vegetables

If you want to sneak more vegetables into dinner without anyone noticing, these meatloaf recipes do the trick.

Each one uses finely chopped vegetables that mix right into the meat.

You will find eleven different versions to choose from.

They focus on simple steps and everyday ingredients.

Most work well for weeknight meals or leftovers.

Helpful Tips Before You Start

A few adjustments in prep will keep your meatloaf moist but not soggy when it is packed with finely chopped vegetables.

Use a Food Processor for the Chop

Pulse the vegetables in short bursts until they reach a fine, even texture. This step prevents large pieces that can make slices fall apart.

Squeeze Out Extra Moisture

Place chopped vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms in a clean towel and press firmly. Removing water keeps the meatloaf from steaming in the pan.

Mix in Stages

Add the vegetables to the meat mixture in two batches while stirring gently with your hands. This distributes them evenly without overworking the beef or turkey.

Boost the Binder Slightly

Stir in an extra quarter cup of breadcrumbs or oats when the vegetable load is high. The extra binder helps the loaf hold its shape during baking.

Spinach and Carrot Turkey Meatloaf with Tomato Basil Sauce

This turkey meatloaf folds finely chopped spinach and carrots right into the mix for extra color and moisture in every slice. The tomato basil sauce brings a bright, herby finish that keeps the dish light yet satisfying for family dinners or meal prep.

It works well on busy weeknights when you want a complete protein and vegetable meal in one pan. The texture stays tender from the vegetables while the sauce adds just enough acidity to balance the mild turkey.

Spinach and Carrot Turkey Meatloaf with Tomato Basil Sauce

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Rett Main Course

Kategori American

serveringsstørrelse 4 people

Ingredienser

  

1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 cup finely chopped fresh spinach
• ½ cup finely chopped carrots
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano

fremgangsmåte

 

• Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a loaf pan.
• In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, spinach, carrots, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, half the minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
• Press the mixture evenly into the prepared loaf pan.
• Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• While the meatloaf bakes, heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the remaining garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
• Stir in the crushed tomatoes and oregano. Simmer for 10 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in the basil.
• Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes after baking, then slice and serve with the warm tomato basil sauce.

merknader

Chop the spinach and carrots very small so they disappear into the meatloaf without creating large pockets. If the sauce tastes too acidic, add a pinch of salt rather than sugar to keep the flavor profile clean. Leftovers reheat well in a covered skillet with a splash of the sauce to restore moisture.

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Mixing bowl, loaf pan, saucepan, oven

Zucchini and Red Pepper Beef Meatloaf with Italian Herbs

This meatloaf packs plenty of finely chopped zucchini and red pepper into the mix for extra moisture and subtle sweetness. The Italian herbs bring a familiar savory note that pairs well with the beef. It makes a reliable choice for weeknight dinners or casual family meals when you want vegetables built right into the main dish.

The texture stays tender thanks to the grated vegetables, while the herbs keep the flavor bright without overpowering the meat. Serve it with a simple salad or roasted potatoes on the side.

Zucchini and Red Pepper Beef Meatloaf with Italian Herbs

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Rett Main Course

Kategori Italian

serveringsstørrelse 4 people

Ingredienser

  

1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium zucchini, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce

fremgangsmåte

 

• Preheat the oven to 375 degrees and lightly grease a loaf pan.
• In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped zucchini, finely chopped red bell pepper, onion, and garlic.
• Add the breadcrumbs, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and Parmesan cheese to the bowl.
• Mix everything with clean hands until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
• Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and press it into an even shape.
• Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
• Bake for 50 to 60 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees.
• Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

merknader

Chop the zucchini and red pepper very small so they blend smoothly into the beef without creating large pockets. If the mixture feels too wet, add an extra tablespoon or two of breadcrumbs before shaping. Leftovers reheat well in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to keep the slices moist.

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment: Mixing Bowl, Loaf Pan

Broccoli and Cheddar Chicken Meatloaf

This meatloaf combines ground chicken with plenty of finely chopped broccoli for a lighter take on a classic comfort dish. The cheddar melts through the mixture to create a savory, family-friendly meal that works well for weeknight dinners or simple meal prep.

It has a tender texture from the vegetables and cheese, with a mild savory flavor that appeals to both kids and adults. The broccoli stays bright and adds a slight crunch when chopped finely.

Broccoli and Cheddar Chicken Meatloaf

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Rett Main Course

Kategori American

serveringsstørrelse 4 people

Ingredienser

  

1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1 1/2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

fremgangsmåte

 

• Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a loaf pan with the olive oil.
• In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
• Mix the ingredients with clean hands or a spoon until evenly combined, taking care not to overwork the mixture.
• Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and press it down firmly to form an even shape.
• Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the top is lightly browned.
• Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

merknader

Chop the broccoli very small so it blends smoothly into the meatloaf without creating large chunks. Use sharp cheddar for stronger flavor if you prefer it over mild. Leftovers reheat well in a skillet over medium heat to keep the edges crisp. You can mix the ingredients a few hours ahead and refrigerate the uncooked loaf until ready to bake.

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Mixing Bowl, Loaf Pan

Kale and Sweet Potato Pork Meatloaf with Maple Glaze

This meatloaf packs ground pork with finely chopped kale and sweet potato for a hearty option that still feels balanced. The maple glaze brings a light sweetness that pairs with the earthy vegetables without overpowering them. It suits weeknight dinners or weekend meal prep when you want something comforting yet vegetable-forward.

The finished loaf slices cleanly and stays moist from the added produce. Kale softens during baking while the sweet potato lends a subtle creaminess to each bite.

Kale and Sweet Potato Pork Meatloaf with Maple Glaze

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Rett Main Course

Kategori American

serveringsstørrelse 4 people

Ingredienser

  

1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground pork
• 1 cup finely chopped kale
• 1 cup finely chopped sweet potato
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

fremgangsmåte

 

• Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, kale, sweet potato, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix with your hands until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
• Shape the mixture into a loaf about 8 inches long and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 30 minutes. While it bakes, stir together the maple syrup and Dijon mustard in a small bowl.
• Remove the meatloaf from the oven, brush the glaze evenly over the top, and return it to the oven for another 20 minutes.
• Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

merknader

Grate the sweet potato on the large holes of a box grater so it cooks through evenly without adding extra moisture that could make the loaf soggy. If the kale stems feel tough, strip the leaves first before chopping. Leftovers reheat well in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of water to keep the glaze from drying out.

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Box Grater

Cauliflower and Parsnip Meatloaf with Rosemary Gravy

This meatloaf blends ground beef with finely chopped cauliflower and parsnip for a hearty main that still feels lighter than the classic version. The rosemary gravy brings an earthy, aromatic finish that pairs well with the sweet notes from the parsnip. It works nicely for weeknight dinners or Sunday meals when you want extra vegetables without extra sides.

The texture stays moist thanks to the vegetables releasing moisture during baking, while the gravy adds a savory sauce that ties everything together.

Cauliflower and Parsnip Meatloaf with Rosemary Gravy

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Rett Main Course

Kategori American

serveringsstørrelse 4 people

Ingredienser

  

1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 1/2 cups finely chopped cauliflower florets
• 1 cup finely chopped parsnip
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

fremgangsmåte

 

• Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cauliflower, parsnip, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix with your hands until the vegetables are evenly distributed through the meat.
• Press the mixture into a loaf pan. Bake for 50 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
• While the meatloaf rests, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary. Cook for one minute, then slowly pour in the beef broth while whisking. Simmer until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes. Serve the sliced meatloaf with the gravy spooned over the top.

merknader

Chop the cauliflower and parsnip very small so they soften fully during baking and do not create crunchy bits in the loaf. If the gravy thickens too much while sitting, stir in a splash of broth to loosen it before serving.

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Mixing bowl, loaf pan, skillet, whisk

Eggplant and Olive Mediterranean Meatloaf

This meatloaf packs plenty of finely chopped eggplant and olives into the mix for a moist texture and bright Mediterranean taste. It works well for weeknight dinners or weekend meal prep because the vegetables add flavor without extra steps.

The result is a savory loaf with briny notes from the olives and a light herb aroma that pairs easily with simple sides like roasted potatoes or a green salad.

Eggplant and Olive Mediterranean Meatloaf

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Rett Main Course

Kategori Mediterranean

serveringsstørrelse 4 people

Ingredienser

  

1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 medium eggplant, finely chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup black olives, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

fremgangsmåte

 

• Preheat the oven to 375 degrees and lightly grease a loaf pan.
• Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped eggplant and onion, then cook for 8 minutes until softened.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
• In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the cooked eggplant mixture and the finely chopped olives.
• Mix everything with your hands until evenly combined, then press the mixture into the prepared loaf pan.
• Bake for 50 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
• Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

merknader

Cook the eggplant fully before mixing so it releases moisture and blends smoothly into the turkey without leaving firm chunks. Leftovers keep in the fridge for three days and reheat well in a covered skillet with a splash of water to keep the loaf from drying out.

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Equipment: Skillet, Mixing Bowl, Loaf Pan

Jalapeño Corn and Black Bean Meatloaf with Chipotle

This meatloaf packs plenty of vegetables into each slice for a moist texture and steady flavor. Finely chopped jalapeños, onion, and corn mix with black beans to create a hearty base that still feels light enough for weeknight meals. The chipotle adds a steady smoky note without overpowering the dish.

It suits casual family dinners or meal prep when you want something familiar with a bit more interest. The vegetables stay evenly distributed and keep the loaf from drying out during baking.

Jalapeño Corn and Black Bean Meatloaf with Chipotle

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Rett Main Course

Kategori Mexican

serveringsstørrelse 4 people

Ingredienser

  

1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 2 jalapeños, finely chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

fremgangsmåte

 

• Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a loaf pan.
• Place the black beans in a large mixing bowl and mash about half of them with a fork.
• Add the ground beef, corn, jalapeños, onion, garlic, chipotle pepper, breadcrumbs, egg, cumin, salt, and black pepper to the bowl.
• Mix everything with your hands or a sturdy spoon until the ingredients are evenly combined.
• Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a firm, even loaf.
• Bake for 50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
• Remove the pan from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

merknader

Mash only half the black beans so the loaf holds together without becoming too dense. If the mixture feels loose before shaping, add an extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs. Leftovers reheat well in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of water to keep the slices moist.

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Equipment: Mixing Bowl, Loaf Pan, Oven

Ginger Scallion and Mushroom Asian Meatloaf

This meatloaf brings bold Asian flavors to the table with plenty of finely chopped mushrooms, scallions, and fresh ginger mixed right into the meat. The mushrooms add moisture and a savory depth while the ginger and scallions keep each bite bright and aromatic. It works well for weeknight meals when you want something hearty but still packed with vegetables.

The texture stays tender thanks to the chopped produce, and the soy and sesame create a balanced, umami-rich taste that pairs easily with rice or steamed greens.

Ginger Scallion and Mushroom Asian Meatloaf

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Rett Main Course

Kategori Asian

serveringsstørrelse 4 people

Ingredienser

  

1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, finely chopped
• 6 scallions, finely chopped
• 3 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

fremgangsmåte

 

• Preheat the oven to 375 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Place the ground turkey, finely chopped mushrooms, scallions, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, egg, panko breadcrumbs, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl.
• Mix everything with your hands until the ingredients are evenly combined but not overworked.
• Shape the mixture into a loaf about 8 inches long and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees.
• Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

merknader

Chop the mushrooms and scallions very small so they blend smoothly into the loaf without creating large pockets. If the mixture feels too wet after adding the soy sauce, sprinkle in an extra tablespoon of panko. Leftovers reheat well in a skillet with a splash of water to keep the texture moist.

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Equipment: Large Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

Beet and Walnut Meatloaf with Horseradish Yogurt

This meatloaf folds finely chopped beets and walnuts into the mix for an earthy flavor and subtle crunch. It suits cool evenings when you want a filling main that still loads up on vegetables. The horseradish yogurt on the side brings a sharp, creamy contrast that balances the savory loaf.

The beets turn the interior a deep red while the walnuts add texture without overpowering the beef. Serve it sliced with the yogurt spooned over each portion for a complete plate.

Beet and Walnut Meatloaf with Horseradish Yogurt

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Rett Main Course

Kategori American

serveringsstørrelse 4 people

Ingredienser

  

1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium beet, peeled and finely chopped
• 1/2 cup walnuts, finely chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

fremgangsmåte

 

• Preheat the oven to 375 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped beet, finely chopped walnuts, onion, carrot, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix with your hands until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
• Shape the mixture into a loaf about 8 inches long and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees.
• While the meatloaf bakes, stir the yogurt and horseradish together in a small bowl until smooth. Set aside.
• Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. Slice and serve with the horseradish yogurt and a sprinkle of parsley on top.

merknader

Grate the beet on the fine side of a box grater to keep the pieces small enough to disappear into the loaf. If the mixture feels too wet, add another tablespoon or two of breadcrumbs before shaping. Leftovers reheat well in a covered skillet over low heat with a spoonful of the yogurt stirred in to keep the slices moist.

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Box Grater

Butternut Squash and Sage Autumn Meatloaf

This meatloaf brings together the earthy sweetness of butternut squash with the warm flavor of sage for a fall-inspired dinner. The vegetables are chopped fine so they cook evenly and stay tucked into every slice without changing the classic meatloaf texture. It works well on busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet packed with seasonal produce.

The result is a moist loaf with gentle herbal notes that pairs easily with roasted potatoes or a simple green salad. It feels comforting without being heavy, and the squash adds natural moisture that keeps leftovers tasting fresh.

Butternut Squash and Sage Autumn Meatloaf

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Rett Main Course

Kategori American

serveringsstørrelse 4 people

Ingredienser

  

1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup finely chopped butternut squash
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/2 cup finely chopped carrot
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh sage
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

fremgangsmåte

 

• Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Place the ground beef, finely chopped butternut squash, onion, carrot, sage, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl.
• Mix everything with your hands until the ingredients are evenly combined but not overworked.
• Shape the mixture into a loaf about 8 inches long and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 50 to 55 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
• Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

merknader

Chop the butternut squash into very small pieces so it softens fully during baking and blends into the meat without creating chunks. If the mixture feels too wet, add an extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs before shaping. Leftovers reheat well in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of broth to keep the slices moist.

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Large Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Knife

Thai Basil and Green Bean Meatloaf with Peanut Sauce

This meatloaf brings Thai flavors to a classic comfort dish by folding finely chopped green beans and fresh Thai basil right into the mix. The green beans add a slight crunch while the basil gives bright herbal notes that pair well with a simple peanut sauce on the side. It works nicely for weeknight dinners when you want something hearty yet vegetable-forward.

The finished loaf slices cleanly and holds together without feeling dense. The peanut sauce adds creaminess and a touch of sweetness that balances the savory meat and herbs.

Thai Basil and Green Bean Meatloaf with Peanut Sauce

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Rett Main Course

Kategori Thai

serveringsstørrelse 4 people

Ingredienser

  

1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 cup finely chopped green beans
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped Thai basil
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 3 tablespoons water

fremgangsmåte

 

• Preheat the oven to 375 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, finely chopped green beans, onion, garlic, Thai basil, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
• Shape the mixture into a loaf about 8 inches long and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees.
• While the meatloaf bakes, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, and water in a small bowl until smooth. Add a little more water if needed to reach a pourable consistency.
• Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes after baking, then slice and serve with the peanut sauce drizzled over or on the side.

merknader

Chop the green beans very small so they blend evenly into the loaf without creating large pockets. If the peanut sauce thickens while sitting, stir in a teaspoon of water at a time until it loosens again. Leftovers reheat well in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of water to keep the slices moist.

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Thai
Equipment: Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Small Bowl