Zesty Meatloaf with Veggies

Name: Zesty Meatloaf with Veggies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup diced bell peppers; 1/2 cup diced onions; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup ketchup; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup ketchup; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp mustard

Highlighted under: No-Fuss Kitchen Dishes

I absolutely love making this Zesty Meatloaf with Veggies because it combines comfort and flavor perfectly! The robust seasoning and fresh vegetables give this classic dish a delightful twist, whether it's a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. I've found that the combination of herbs and zesty sauces keeps the meatloaf incredibly moist and full of flavor. Plus, incorporating veggies not only adds nutritional benefits but also provides a lovely texture that complements the meat beautifully. It's truly a family favorite that never disappoints!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-23T22:45:27.984Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was focusing on how to add more flavor and nutrition to a traditional meatloaf. Combining zesty sauces with fresh herbs and chopped vegetables made a significant difference in both taste and texture. I also realized that letting the mixture rest before shaping it into a loaf allowed the flavors to meld beautifully.

I particularly enjoy serving this dish with mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad. It’s an easy way to incorporate extra veggies into our meals without anyone noticing. Plus, leftovers are amazing in sandwiches the next day!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with vibrant flavors that awaken your palate.
Perfectly moist, thanks to the addition of fresh veggies.
A classic dish reimagined for a healthy twist.

The Importance of Fresh Veggies

Incorporating fresh vegetables like bell peppers and onions into your meatloaf not only enhances the flavor profile but also contributes to the overall moisture level. The natural juices released during baking create a succulent texture that prevents the meatloaf from becoming dry. I recommend finely dicing the vegetables to ensure they blend seamlessly with the ground beef, allowing each slice to showcase their vibrant colors and add a delightful crunch.

For added variation, consider incorporating grated carrots or zucchini into the mixture. These vegetables not only boost the nutritional value but also introduce a subtle sweetness that beautifully balances the savory notes of the meatloaf. Keep in mind that if you choose to add more vegetables, you may need to slightly adjust the breadcrumbs or beef quantity to maintain the desired consistency.

Perfecting Your Meatloaf

One key aspect of achieving a perfect meatloaf is to avoid overmixing the ingredients. Gentle mixing helps to maintain a tender texture rather than a dense one. When combining the beef, eggs, and seasonings, aim for just a uniform mixture; this will yield a light and airy meatloaf that's both satisfying and flavorful. A good visual cue is to mix until everything is just combined, with no clumps of breadcrumbs or vegetables visible.

Another important factor is forming the meatloaf shape. If you're using a baking tray, shape it with your hands into a loaf about 2 inches high for even cooking. Place it on parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. Ideally, you want the surface to be smooth to promote even browning. A well-formed loaf not only looks appetizing but also cooks evenly, reducing the risk of undercooked sections.

Serving and Storing Leftovers

Once the meatloaf is baked, allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before cutting. This resting period is crucial as it helps the juices redistribute throughout the meatloaf, making every slice flavorful and juicy. Serve the meatloaf warm, alongside classic sides like mashed potatoes or a simple green salad to balance its richness. A drizzle of extra ketchup or a spoonful of tangy barbecue sauce can elevate the dish even further.

For leftovers, storing the meatloaf is straightforward. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in the oven at 325°F (163°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual slices for a quick meal. The texture and flavor will remain impressive even after freezing, making it a great option for meal prep.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

1 lb ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup diced bell peppers
1/2 cup diced onions
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 large eggs

For the Topping

1/4 cup ketchup
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp mustard

Make sure all ingredients are well combined for optimal flavor.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure the meatloaf cooks evenly.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, bell peppers, onions, garlic, soy sauce, ketchup, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and eggs. Mix gently until just combined.

Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking tray.

Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Spread the mixture evenly over the meatloaf.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Rest and Serve

Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

Serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese to the meat mixture. It enhances the umami taste and adds a little more richness.

Substitutions and Dietary Swaps

If you're looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can serve as excellent substitutes for ground beef. Keep in mind that these may cook quicker, so always check the internal temperature for doneness. For a gluten-free version, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives or even crushed rice crackers, which will help bind the mixture without sacrificing texture.

For those avoiding soy, coconut aminos can replace soy sauce without losing the flavor depth of the dish. If you're dairy-free, there are no dairy ingredients in this recipe, so it’s naturally suitable. Adding a bit of nutritional yeast can provide a cheesiness that complements the meatloaf without altering the intended flavors.

Enhancing Flavor with Herbs and Spices

The blend of dried oregano and basil in this meatloaf gives it a classic Italian-inspired flavor. Feel free to get creative! You can experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a vibrant, aromatic profile. Just be sure to adjust the quantity, as fresh herbs tend to be more potent. A dash of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add an enjoyable kick, perfect for those who appreciate a little heat.

If you're a fan of unique flavors, consider adding a tablespoon of barbecue sauce or hot sauce into the meat mixture for a surprise twist. These small changes offer a way to personalize the dish to your taste preferences while still keeping with the meatloaf's comforting essence.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the meatloaf?

Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with meatloaf?

Mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a fresh salad make excellent sides.