Individual Mediterranean Meatloaf “Muffins”

Makes 4 Servings

$2.04 per serving (As of December 2012*)

Present a classic dish in a new, better-for-you way. These easy-to-make mini meatloaves are full of rich flavor but they’re surprisingly low in saturated fat and calories. By using lean ground beef and adding nutritious ingredients like carrots and oats, busy parents can feel great about feeding these melt-in-your mouth loaves to their families.

1 large egg, beaten

1 medium carrot, peeled and shredded (about ½ cup)

1/3 cup quick-cooking oats

¼ cup very finely diced onion

¼ cup fresh chopped basil

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon kosher salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)

¼ cup pasta sauce plus 1 cup, divided

1.  Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly oil or coat 8 muffin cups with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.

2. Stir together the egg, carrot, oats, onion, basil, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until well blended.

3. Using your hands, mix the ground meat into the oat mixture until just combined. Divide the meat mixture evenly among the muffin cups, press the meat down gently, and spread a half tablespoon of the pasta sauce evenly on top of each one.

4. Bake until an instant-read thermometer registers 160°F, 28 to 30 minutes. Warm the remaining pasta sauce, and serve as a topping for the loaves.

Nutrition Information per Serving (2 mini meatloaves): 260 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated), 500mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate, 2g fiber, 28g protein, 60% vitamin A, 20% iron

Individual Mediterranean Meatloaf “Muffins”

Grocery List

Be sure to check your pantry before heading to the store!

1 medium carrot

1/3 cup quick-cooking oats

1 small onion

1 bunch fresh basil

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)

1 jar pasta sauce

Large eggs

Kosher salt

Black pepper

Recipe courtesy of Meal Makeover Moms.

*Price per serving was updated in December 2012 to reflect cost estimates based on ingredient measurements in this recipe.