Description

Vegetable Meatloaf with Balsamic Glaze is a wholesome, hearty dish blending ground meat and finely chopped vegetables for a moist, flavorful loaf. Finished with a tangy-sweet balsamic glaze, this comforting meal is perfect for family dinners and adds a nutritious twist to classic meatloaf.

Ingredients

For the meatloaf:
1 lb ground beef or beef
1 cup finely chopped onion
1 cup finely chopped bell peppers (any color)
1 cup grated carrots
1/2 cup finely chopped celery
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk
2 large eggs
1/4 cup ketchup or tomato sauce
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning

For the balsamic glaze:

1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp honey (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat Oven:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
Prepare Meatloaf Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine ground meat, onion, bell peppers, carrots, celery, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and herbs.
Mix gently until just combined.
Shape and Bake:
Transfer mixture to loaf pan, pressing gently into an even loaf.
Bake for 50-60 minutes.
Make Balsamic Glaze:
While baking, combine balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and honey in a small saucepan.
Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until syrupy, about 10 minutes.
Glaze Meatloaf:
Brush glaze over meatloaf during last 10 minutes of baking. Return to oven to finish.
Rest and Serve:
Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
Serve with extra glaze drizzled on top.

Notes

For vegetarian option, substitute ground meat with lentils or plant-based crumbles.Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.Mix shredded cheese into the meatloaf or sprinkle on top before glazing.Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or rosemary enhance flavor.Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats to make gluten-free.