Meatloaf is one of those comfort foods that bring back memories of family dinners and warm, filling meals. It’s a simple dish that’s been around for generations, and it’s still a favorite in many households. But if you’re trying to eat healthier, you may be wondering “is meatloaf healthy?”
Here are answers to some common questions about whether meatloaf is healthy or not:
The answer to this question isn’t exactly black and white because it depends on how the meatloaf is made. Many meatloaf recipes use fatty ground beef and pork, white breadcrumbs, eggs, and a ketchup-based glaze. This can add up to a meal that has a lot of saturated fat, sodium, sugar, and calories. But on the positive side, meatloaf is a good source of protein, iron, and B vitamins like B12, which help your body make energy and keep your blood healthy. If you use leaner meats, add vegetables, and limit ingredients that are high in sodium or sugar, meatloaf can be a healthy option.
Many people think that turkey meatloaf is healthier than traditional meatloaf, but again, it depends on the ingredients used. If you use lean ground turkey, add some veggies, and season it without much salt or high-sugar sauces, it can be a healthy, high-protein meal. But if you use ground turkey with a higher fat percentage and include high-sodium or high-sugar ingredients, it may be no better for you than meatloaf made with beef and pork.
The biggest issues with most meatloaf recipes are the fat, salt, and sugar. Many use ground beef that’s 80% lean or less, or fatty beef and pork mixtures. This can add a lot of saturated fat to the recipe, which can raise cholesterol and heart disease risk. Some versions also use salty seasonings, resulting in a single slice having hundreds of milligrams of sodium. Ketchup and barbecue sauce glazes often contain a lot of added sugar, which can spike blood sugar levels and can be problematic if you have diabetes, heart disease, or are trying to lose weight.
If you’re looking for easy, delicious, and healthy meatloaf recipes, give one of these a try. They’ve been developed by the chefs and dietitians at Health eCooks, so they not only taste great but meet a variety of dietary needs, including fitting into heart healthy diets as well as diabetic-friendly meal plans.
This meatloaf is deeply satisfying and juicy, thanks to lean ground beef combined with roasted red peppers and broccoli that add sweetness and color. The glaze on top gives it just the right touch of tang, making it a hearty dinner that beats expectations.
Each slice of this turkey meatloaf is moist and bursting with flavor, thanks to the garlic, onions, carrots, celery, and just enough herbs to make it feel comforting yet fresh. It’s a family-friendly crowd-pleaser that tastes indulgent without being heavy.
This meatloaf delivers classic comfort with zip, using bold flavors from Dijon mustard, herbs, garlic, and vegetables instead of piling on the salt. The mix of lean beef and turkey makes it rich in protein and texture, and the light ketchup glaze seals the deal.
It’s easier than you think to make healthier meatloaf. Start with your favorite meatloaf recipe and try these dietitian-approved swaps:
If you make smart choices with the ingredients, meatloaf can be part of a balanced diet. It’s filling, protein-rich, and great for meal prep. It also pairs well with healthy sides like roasted veggies, quinoa, or a green salad. Just watch portion sizes (aim for about 4–5 ounces) and mix up your meal plan with lean proteins such as fish, grilled chicken, and beans throughout the week to add variety.
