This flavorful twist on a classic meatloaf combines hearty quinoa and veggies with a spicy buffalo kick for a satisfying, healthy meal. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy bold flavors without the meat.
Prep Time15 min
Cook Time1 hr 20 min
Total Time1 hr 35 min
Difficulty
Hard
Kitchen Advice
Make sure to cook the quinoa fully before mixing to avoid a crunchy texture.
Use gloves when handling buffalo sauce if you want to avoid irritation from the spices.
Let the loaf rest for 10 minutes after baking to help it hold together when slicing.
Ingredients
0/18
Why You'll Want This Again
A great way to enjoy bold, spicy flavors while keeping things vegetarian and nutritious. It combines the protein power of quinoa with the zesty kick of buffalo sauce, making it both satisfying and healthy. Plus, it’s a fun twist on a classic comfort food.
Step 1
Lightly heat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan. In a saucepan, bring some water and quinoa to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover it and let it cook until the quinoa is fluffy and the water is absorbed, which usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 2
While the quinoa cooks, warm up some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, sweet potato, kale, and red bell pepper, and sauté everything until the veggies are soft and fragrant, around 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 3
In a large bowl, mix together the buffalo meat, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, ketchup, and your favorite herbs and spices like salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and thyme. Stir in the cooked quinoa and sautéed veggies until everything is well combined.
Step 4
Spoon the mixture into your prepared loaf pan, pressing it down gently. Spread a thin layer of barbecue sauce on top for a nice tangy finish.
Step 5
Pop the pan into the oven and bake for about an hour. You'll know it's done when the center isn’t pink anymore and a meat thermometer reads at least 160°F. Let it cool a bit before slicing and serving.
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people cooked this recipe
ByDavid Brown
David shares approachable recipes, helpful cooking tips, and simple meal ideas.
Serving Ideas For Every Meal
Serve warm with a side of cooling ranch or blue cheese dressing to balance the heat. Pair it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete and colorful meal.
Storage Advice
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use another type of ground meat instead of buffalo?
Yes, ground beef, turkey, or chicken can be used as alternatives. Adjust cooking time if needed.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer; it should read at least 160°F in the center. The meat should no longer be pink.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, quinoa and the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, but check that Worcestershire and barbecue sauces are gluten-free brands.
What can I substitute if I don’t have sweet potato?
You can use butternut squash, pumpkin, or regular potatoes as a substitute.
Can I prepare this ahead and freeze it?
Yes, you can assemble and freeze before baking, then thaw and bake as directed.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Is it okay to add more veggies to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add extra kale, bell peppers, or other favorite vegetables.
Can I skip the eggs in this recipe?
Eggs help bind the mixture, but you can try using flax eggs or another binder if you prefer.
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