Turkey and Mushroom Meatloaf

Serves: 4-6 people  |  10 Minute Prep Time |  30 Minutes to Cook

If food is love, then my meatloaf is a true love letter to my husband.

Growing up, I remember meatloaf night at my house with little enthusiasm, but for Sean, it’s been one of his favorite dishes. And after 23 years of marriage, I caved and made my first meatloaf. This, after I called my sister who said she just wings it (thanks, sis), and then researched various versions. I’ve tried several since then – some with zucchini, others with apples and one with mushrooms. Some recipes called for cooking the onions, others didn’t. Some had ketchup in the mix. One had a mashed avocado! In every case, though, the goal was the same: a meatloaf that holds up well but also stays moist and juicy.

For my version, I’ve added both mushrooms and zucchini sautéed with onions and garlic – the mix adds not only moisture to the dish but also fiber, nutrients and so much flavor! I’ve topped it with spicy ketchup per Sean’s request but have also played with a ketchup and barbecue sauce mix which is interesting.

And, I have to admit, I’m kind of enjoying meatloaf night. I hope you do, too!

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. In a large sauté pan over medium heat, drizzle a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil and add the onions. Salt and saute for about 5 minutes, until translucent.
3. Add the mushrooms, zucchini, garlic and Italian herbs and sauté for another 5 minutes. Salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the Worcesteshire sauce and  tomato paste and stir well to combine. Cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Turn off the heat, and let the mixture cool.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 pounds of turkey, egg, breadcrumbs and the mushroom mix. Mix well, ensuring even distribution of the ingredients.
7. Line a loaf pan with parchment paper and add turkey mixture to the pan. Even out the top with a spatula and top with a thin layer of spicy ketchup.
8. Cook in oven on 350 for about 45-60 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches at least 165 degrees.
9. Enjoy!