Bariatric-Friendly Turkey Meatloaf

Name: Bariatric-Friendly Turkey Meatloaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground turkey; 1/4 cup almond flour; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup grated zucchini, excess water squeezed out; 1/4 cup finely chopped onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons sugar-free ketchup (for topping)

Bariatric-Friendly Meatloaf

Yield: 4 Servings | Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 45 min

Bariatric Approved

Dietary Concerns: This recipe is gluten-free, low-carb, and high-protein. It's designed specifically for bariatric patients. We use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs to keep the carb content low. Always check individual ingredient labels for specific dietary needs or allergies.

This Bariatric-Friendly Turkey Meatloaf is a great meal option for people who've had bariatric surgery. It's high in lean protein and low in carbs, which is so important after weight loss surgery. The mix of protein, healthy fats, and non-starchy veggies gives you important nutrients without too many calories.

Friendly Advice: For the best texture, don't mix the meatloaf ingredients too much. If the mixture seems too wet, add a little more almond flour. To make it extra moist and nutritious, you can serve each slice with a tablespoon of sugar-free marinara sauce.

Benefits for Bariatric Patients

High Protein Content: With 28g of protein per serving, this meal helps you meet your protein needs and supports muscle health during weight loss.
Low Carbohydrate: Only 6g of carbs per serving helps support continued weight loss after bariatric surgery.
Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Ground turkey, zucchini, and onions provide essential vitamins and minerals without adding too many calories or carbs.
Easy Portion Control: The loaf shape makes it simple to control your portion sizes, which is important after bariatric surgery.
Easy to Eat: The moist texture of the meatloaf makes it easier to eat for those who have trouble with solid foods after surgery.
Tasty Flavor: The herbs and sugar-free ketchup add flavor without using added sugars or unhealthy fats.

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground turkey
1/4 cup almond flour
1 large egg
1/4 cup grated zucchini, excess water squeezed out
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons sugar-free ketchup (for topping)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, almond flour, egg, zucchini, onion, garlic, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, but don't overmix.
Shape Loaf: Put the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
Add Topping: Spread sugar-free ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake: Bake for 45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories	220
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	6g
Fat	10g
Fiber	1g
Sugar	2g

Tips and Additional Info

Portion Control: This recipe makes 4 servings. Adjust your portion size based on your doctor's advice and your stage of post-surgery diet.
Veggie Options: You can swap the zucchini for other low-carb veggies like finely chopped bell peppers or spinach to keep carbs low while adding variety.
Protein Choices: If you don't have turkey, lean ground chicken works well too.
Serving Ideas: Pair with a small side of roasted non-starchy veggies like broccoli or cauliflower for extra nutrients without adding many carbs.
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to keep it moist.
Meal Prep: This meatloaf is great for meal prep. You can slice and portion it out for easy, ready-to-eat meals throughout the week.