This Parmesan Meatloaf is a delicious, hearty meal that’s packed with flavor and veggies, while keeping calories in check. Perfect for a family dinner, it brings together lean beef, savory seasonings, and a hint of cheese for a healthier take on a traditional favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Meatloaf:
Flavorful and Filling: With veggies, Worcestershire sauce, and Parmesan, this meatloaf has a deep, savory taste.
Weight Watchers Friendly: Made with lean beef and nutrient-rich ingredients, it’s lower in calories and WW points.
Balanced Texture: Quick oats add structure without making the loaf heavy, keeping it moist and tender.
Simple to Make: This recipe requires basic ingredients and straightforward steps, perfect for a weeknight meal.
Nutritious Ingredients: The added vegetables bring fiber, vitamins, and moisture, while lean beef keeps the protein high.
Key Ingredients:
1. Lean Ground Beef
Low-Fat Option: Using 93% lean ground beef keeps the meatloaf moist without excess fat.
Alternative Proteins: For a lighter variation, try ground turkey or chicken.
2. Vegetables (Mushrooms, Onion, Carrot, and Celery)
Adds Moisture and Flavor: These vegetables add moisture, making the meatloaf juicy and flavorful.
Finely Chop: Make sure to chop the veggies finely for even cooking and a smooth texture.
3. Quick Cooking Oats
Gluten-Free Binding: Quick oats are a great alternative to breadcrumbs, adding fiber and helping the loaf hold together.
Alternative Binders: Old-fashioned oats work well too, or you can use whole-wheat breadcrumbs if preferred.
4. Egg Whites
Low-Calorie Binding: Egg whites provide structure and help bind the meatloaf without adding extra calories.
Whole Egg Option: If you prefer, use 1 whole egg instead of 2 egg whites.
5. Ketchup and Worcestershire Sauce
Adds Tang and Depth: These ingredients contribute to the savory flavor and add a slight tang that pairs well with the beef.
Optional Glaze: Brushing additional ketchup on top during baking creates a glossy, flavorful crust.
6. Parmesan Cheese
Savory, Nutty Flavor: While optional, Parmesan adds a delicious, slightly salty flavor that enhances the dish.
Alternative Cheeses: If you’d like, you can use Romano cheese for a sharper taste.
Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below
Would you like to save this?
Just drop your email here and I'll send it right away!
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking.
Grease the Loaf Pan: Spray a loaf pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking. If you don’t have a loaf pan, you can use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil, though the shape of the meatloaf will vary.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Heat the Oil: Add 2 teaspoons of canola oil to a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
Cook the Vegetables: Once the oil is hot, add finely chopped mushrooms, onion, carrot, and celery. These add moisture, flavor, and nutrients to the meatloaf.
Sauté: Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion is softened and translucent and the mushrooms have released their liquid.
Tip: Once done, transfer the vegetables to a large mixing bowl to cool slightly before adding the meat and other ingredients.
Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients
Add Remaining Ingredients: To the bowl with the vegetables, add:
1 pound of lean ground beef
1/2 cup quick cooking or old-fashioned oats
2 large egg whites (or 1 whole egg)
3 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or 1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic
Combine Thoroughly: Use your hands to mix until combined, being careful not to overmix, which can make the meatloaf dense.
Step 4: Form and Bake the Meatloaf
Shape the Meatloaf: Press the mixture into the greased loaf pan, pressing down firmly. If using a baking sheet, shape it into a loaf about 2 inches high.
First Bake: Bake for 30 minutes.
Optional Glaze: After 30 minutes, brush additional ketchup on top if desired for a tangy glaze and glossy finish.
Finish Baking: Continue baking for another 30 to 45 minutes, until an instant-read thermometer reads 160°F (71°C) when inserted in the center.
Step 5: Let it Rest and Serve
Rest: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. This helps redistribute the juices, keeping the meatloaf moist.
Slice and Serve: Cut the meatloaf into 8 slices and serve with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a green salad.
Serving Suggestions:
This Weight Watchers Parmesan Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:
Mashed Potatoes: Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash for a comforting classic.
Steamed Vegetables: Green beans, broccoli, or carrots make great healthy sides.
Simple Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad topped with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve with cauliflower rice to keep the meal light.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
This meatloaf is great for leftovers and can be easily stored:
Refrigeration: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through. Cover with foil if using the oven to prevent drying out.
Variations to Try:
Switch up your meatloaf with these fun and tasty variations:
Italian-Style Meatloaf: Add 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning to the mixture.
Spicy Meatloaf: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for a bit of heat.
BBQ Meatloaf: Replace the ketchup with BBQ sauce in the mixture and for the glaze.
Turkey Meatloaf: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner option.
Conclusion:
This Weight Watchers Parmesan Meatloaf is a delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort dish with a healthier twist. With a hearty blend of lean ground beef, oats, and vegetables, it’s nutritious, filling, and perfect for any night of the week. Slice up a piece and enjoy this tasty, low-calorie take on a beloved favorite!
Weight Watchers Parmesan Meatloaf
Ingredients
- 2 tsp canola oil for sautéing vegetables
- 1 cup white mushrooms finely chopped
- 1 cup onion finely chopped
- 1 carrot peeled and finely chopped
- 1 stalk celery finely chopped
- 1 lb lean ground beef 7% or less fat
- 1/2 cup quick cooking or old-fashioned oats not instant
- 2 egg whites egg whites or 1 whole egg
- 3 tbsp ketchup plus more for brushing on top
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme leaves not ground thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder or 1 tsp minced fresh garlic
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a loaf pan with cooking spray or line a baking sheet with parchment or foil.
- In a large skillet, heat canola oil over medium heat. Add mushrooms, onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Transfer to a large bowl to cool slightly.
- To the cooled vegetables, add ground beef, oats, egg whites, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Press mixture into the loaf pan or shape on a baking sheet. Bake for 30 minutes, brush with extra ketchup if desired, then continue baking for another 30-45 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with mashed potatoes, vegetables, or salad.