Manhandler Meatloaf Recipe: A Family-Friendly Dish
Discover the delightful taste of Manhandler Meatloaf, a modified version of a classic dish that has been tailored to suit my family’s preferences while still adhering to the principles of healthier eating. This recipe yields two loaves, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep, and can easily be frozen for future use. With a combination of lean ground turkey and flavorful ingredients, this meatloaf is both nutritious and satisfying, making it a great option for kid-friendly meals or brunch gatherings. Each serving packs a punch of flavor while being mindful of calories, making it a wonderful addition to your meal rotation.
Recipe Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Recipe Name | Manhandler Meatloaf |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 1 hour |
| Total Time | 1 hour 10 minutes |
| Servings | 8 (2 loaves total, serving size = 1 loaf) |
| Category | Chicken |
| Keywords | Pork, Poultry, Meat, Kid Friendly, Brunch, Oven, < 4 Hours |
| Calories | 290.1 per serving |
| Fat Content | 10.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.8 g |
| Cholesterol | 89.9 mg |
| Sodium | 691.7 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 26.1 g |
| Fiber | 1.4 g |
| Sugar | 8.4 g |
| Protein | 22.8 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Egg Beaters egg substitute |
| 1 | Mild salsa |
| 1 | Ground turkey |
| 1 | Salsa (for the meatloaf mixture) |
| 2 | Links of mild sausage |
| ¼ | Cup of BBQ sauce |
| ½ | Cup of stuffing mix |
| 2 | Cups of salsa (for glaze) |
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that the meatloaf will cook evenly and thoroughly, resulting in a deliciously moist and flavorful loaf.
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Prepare the Breadcrumbs: In a blender, food processor, or using an immersion blender, process the stuffing mix until it transforms into fine breadcrumbs. This will serve as the binding agent for your meatloaf, providing both texture and flavor.
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Mix the Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Egg Beaters egg substitute, mild salsa, BBQ sauce, and the freshly ground breadcrumbs. Stir these ingredients together thoroughly until well combined, ensuring that the breadcrumbs are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
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Add the Meats: Carefully remove the sausage from its casing and combine it with the ground turkey in the mixing bowl. Use your hands to mix the meats into the salsa and breadcrumb mixture, ensuring everything is thoroughly combined. The hands-on approach helps to incorporate all the flavors, creating a uniform meatloaf base.
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Shape the Loaves: Once everything is well-mixed, separate the mixture into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a loaf, placing them side by side in a greased baking dish or on a lined baking sheet. This will help the loaves hold their shape during baking.
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Freeze for Later (Optional): If you prefer, you can freeze one of the meatloaves at this stage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container or a freezer bag. This allows you to enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal at a later date with minimal effort.
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Bake the Meatloaf: Place the baking dish with the loaves in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 50 minutes. This initial cooking time allows the meatloaves to develop a lovely crust and cook through.
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Prepare the Glaze: While the meatloaf is baking, combine the salsa and BBQ sauce to create a delicious glaze that will enhance the flavor of the meatloaf. This step is simple yet impactful, as the glaze adds moisture and a burst of flavor to the finished dish.
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Add the Glaze: After the meatloaf has baked for 50 minutes, remove it from the oven. Carefully spread the prepared glaze over the top of each loaf, ensuring an even distribution for maximum flavor.
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Finish Baking: Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. This final baking stage allows the glaze to set and caramelize slightly, adding an extra layer of deliciousness to the dish.
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Let It Rest: Once the meatloaf is cooked through and the glaze is bubbly, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful meatloaf.
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Slice and Serve: After resting, slice the meatloaf into even portions and serve it warm. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp salad, making it a versatile meal option.
Conclusion
The Manhandler Meatloaf is more than just a simple dish; it is a testament to how a few modifications can elevate a classic recipe into a delightful meal that appeals to the entire family. Its combination of lean proteins and flavorful ingredients makes it a wholesome choice, and the ability to prepare two loaves means you’ll always have a delicious option ready for busy nights. Enjoy this comforting dish, knowing that it has been crafted with love and consideration for both taste and nutrition. Whether you serve it at a family gathering or enjoy it as a meal prep option, this meatloaf is sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
