Savory Zucchini Meatloaf with Ground Beef

Welcome to a heartwarming classic with a veggie twist – Zucchini Meatloaf Ground Beef! This recipe is a delightful way to sneak in some extra veggies, adding moisture and flavor to your favorite comfort food. Picture a juicy, tender meatloaf with a sweet and tangy glaze that will have your taste buds dancing with delight.

Imagine the magic of grated zucchini mingling with lean ground beef, creating a wholesome and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is a breeze to make and a joy to share with loved ones. Get ready to experience the cozy essence of a traditional meatloaf elevated by the freshness of summer zucchini.

As you gather your ingredients and preheat the oven, you’ll be embarking on a culinary journey that celebrates the harmony of flavors and the joy of homemade goodness. With each bite of this Zucchini Meatloaf Ground Beef, you’ll savor the essence of comfort food redefined – a dish that nourishes both the body and the soul. Join me in bringing together the best of both worlds – the timeless appeal of meatloaf and the vibrant touch of zucchini – for a meal that speaks straight to the heart.

Quick Benefits

• Grated zucchini adds moisture and tenderness, resulting in a juicy and soft meatloaf without making it heavy.
• Ground turkey or chicken work well and will give a slightly lighter flavor and texture.
• The ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar blend creates a glossy, sweet-tangy glaze that enhances flavor and appearance.
• Chopped carrots or bell peppers may be added along with zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Zucchini Meatloaf with Ground Beef Recipe

• Moist and Flavorful: Grated zucchini adds moisture and tenderness, resulting in a juicy and soft meatloaf without making it heavy.
• Versatile Protein Options: Ground turkey or chicken work well and will give a slightly lighter flavor and texture.
• Sweet and Tangy Glaze: The ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar blend creates a glossy, sweet-tangy glaze that enhances flavor and appearance.
• Customizable Ingredients: Chopped carrots or bell peppers may be added along with zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by picky eaters and kids who enjoy getting involved in the kitchen.
• Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly: Perfect for meal prepping or making extra for freezer meals.
• Celebrates Summer Flavors: A delicious way to use up excess zucchini from the garden during peak season.
• Adaptable for All Seasons: Can be made with store-bought zucchini during colder months.
• Comforting and Cozy: A nod to classic American comfort food, perfect for any time of the year.
• Easy to Reheat: Leftovers hold their shape well and can be reheated gently in the microwave or oven.

Ingredients for Savory Zucchini Meatloaf with Ground Beef

Main

• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 to 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup very finely chopped onion
• 1 cup grated zucchini
• 1/4 cup plain bread crumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
• 1 large egg, slightly beaten
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 12 ounces lean ground beef

Topping

• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1/4 teaspoon mustard
• 1/2 tablespoon brown sugar

Pro Tips for Savory Zucchini Meatloaf with Ground Beef

For a juicier and more flavorful meatloaf, grate the zucchini fresh just before using it. This will ensure the zucchini retains its moisture content, making the meatloaf moist and tender.

If you prefer a lighter option, feel free to substitute the lean ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. These alternatives will still provide a tasty meatloaf with a slightly different flavor profile.

To enhance the flavor and appearance of your zucchini meatloaf, make sure to brush the ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar glaze on top. This will create a delicious sweet and tangy crust that adds both taste and visual appeal to the dish.

How to Make Savory Zucchini Meatloaf with Ground Beef

Step 1: Prepare Meatloaf Mixture

Combine grated zucchini, ground beef, egg, onion, garlic, bread crumbs, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Mix until well combined.

Step 2: Shape and Bake

Pour the mixture into a greased loaf pan and press evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 40 minutes, or until the center is cooked through.

Step 3: Prepare Topping

Combine ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar in a small bowl, mixing until smooth.

Step 4: Finish with Topping

Take the loaf out of the oven. Evenly spread the topping over the surface. Bake for an extra 15 minutes until the topping is set and slightly caramelized.

Storage Tips

Once you have baked the zucchini meatloaf and enjoyed your meal, it is essential to store any leftovers properly. Allow the meatloaf to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate the meatloaf slices, ensuring they maintain their shape well. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, gently reheat them either in the microwave or wrapped in foil in the oven for a delicious meal.

For a make-ahead option, you can freeze the baked and cooled meatloaf either whole or in slices. Thaw the frozen meatloaf overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it. Once thawed, warm the meatloaf before serving. Freezing the meatloaf is a convenient way to have a delicious meal ready to enjoy at a moment’s notice. By following these storage and reheating tips, you can continue to savor the flavors of the zucchini meatloaf even after the initial preparation.

Ingredient Substitutions

To make this zucchini meatloaf even leaner, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Both options will result in a slightly lighter flavor and texture while still being juicy and delicious.

If you’re out of bread crumbs, crushed crackers or oats can be used as a substitute. They will help bind the ingredients together and absorb excess moisture, ensuring a well-formed loaf.

For a sweeter twist, you can swap the brown sugar with a dollop of local honey. This substitution will add a more floral sweetness to the meatloaf, enhancing its overall flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative twist on serving this zucchini meatloaf, try slicing it into thick slices and pan-frying them until crispy on the outside. Serve them as zucchini meatloaf sliders with a dollop of tangy BBQ sauce and a slice of melted cheddar cheese on mini burger buns for a fun and flavorful appetizer or meal.

Another creative serving suggestion is to crumble the zucchini meatloaf and use it as a savory topping for loaded baked potatoes. Simply scoop out the baked potato flesh, mix it with the crumbled meatloaf, top with cheese, sour cream, and chives, then bake until bubbly and golden for a hearty and satisfying dish that’s sure to impress.

FAQs for Savory Zucchini Meatloaf with Ground Beef

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef in this recipe?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken work well and will give a slightly lighter flavor and texture.

What does the ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar mixture add to the meatloaf?

The ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar blend creates a glossy, sweet-tangy glaze that enhances flavor and appearance.

Can I add other vegetables besides zucchini to this meatloaf?

Chopped carrots or bell peppers may be added along with zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients.

How do I know when the meatloaf is done cooking?

When the loaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and the center is set, it’s ready to serve.

Conclusion

Incorporating more vegetables into your meals has never been more delicious than with this flavorful Zucchini Meatloaf Ground Beef recipe. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or savoring leftovers the next day, each bite is a celebration of summertime flavors and family-friendly comfort.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe by trying different variations like using ground turkey or adding in extra veggies. The beauty of this Zucchini Meatloaf Ground Beef is its versatility and ability to adapt to your preferences. So, gather your loved ones in the kitchen, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process of creating a wholesome and satisfying meal together. Happy cooking and savor every moment shared around the dinner table with this delightful Zucchini Meatloaf Ground Beef!

Savory Zucchini Meatloaf with Ground Beef

Juicy and tender Zucchini Meatloaf Ground Beef, a cozy dish that’s a delightful blend of hearty flavors with a hint of zucchini sweetness.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time15 min

Cook Time55 min

Total Time70 min

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings (1 loaf)

Ingredients

Main

• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 to 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup very finely chopped onion
• 1 cup grated zucchini
• 1/4 cup plain bread crumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
• 1 large egg, slightly beaten
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 12 ounces lean ground beef

Topping

• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1/4 teaspoon mustard
• 1/2 tablespoon brown sugar

Instructions

1. Prepare Meatloaf Mixture: Combine grated zucchini, ground beef, egg, onion, garlic, bread crumbs, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Mix until well combined.
2. Shape and Bake: Pour the mixture into a greased loaf pan and press evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 40 minutes, or until the center is cooked through.
3. Prepare Topping: Combine ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar in a small bowl, mixing until smooth.
4. Finish with Topping: Take the loaf out of the oven. Evenly spread the topping over the surface. Bake for an extra 15 minutes until the topping is set and slightly caramelized.