Mini Turkey Meatloaves

Are you ready for an easy go-to recipe? The idea of mini turkey muffins was originally given to me by my mother-in-law a few years ago. I thought they were quite adorable and I have been making different variations ever since. I also like this recipe because it’s packed with protein and fiber while still being low in fat and carbohydrates. All that, and it's still filling. The individual serving size is convenient for portion control and makes for great leftovers for lunch or dinner.

The sauce topping is optional, but I find that it really adds a nice tangy-sweet flavor to the dish.  
Try it and let me know what you think. That's what's on my table tonight!

Mini Turkey Meatloaves:
Serves about 6 (2 loaves each)
Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground turkey 
• 1/3 cup chopped onion 
• 1/3 cup dry unseasoned breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3 tablespoons egg whites
• 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1 canned diced tomatoes (I used Hunt's Diced Tomatoes with Spicy Red Pepper)
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red peppers (optional)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Olive oil cooking spray

For the topping: (optional)

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons mustard

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Heat a small skillet over medium-high heat. Coat pan with cooking spray. Add onion, garlic and red pepper to pan; sauté 5 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove from heat; cool slightly.
3. In a  large bowl combine onion, red peppers, garlic, breadcrumbs, and the remaining ingredients listed above, saving diced tomatoes for last. Blend all ingredients together (I find using my fingers to knead all the ingredients works best, but you can also use a potato masher).
4. Spoon about 1/2 cup meat mixture into each muffin cup. Place muffin tin on a baking sheet and place in oven. 
5. While meatloaves are cooking prepare the topping in a small bowl and mix well.
6. With remaining 5 minutes brush mixture over meat loaf tops. Serve immediately, or once cooled, place in airtight container and store in the refrigerator.
   

Note: Mini turkey meatloaves are 6-7 points each on the Weight Watchers program.