Mini "Meat"loaves

One of the hardest adjustments to vegetarianism has been the replacements of comfort foods. Sometimes, you just need some comfort food. And most of the time, they're filled with meat and calories. So I created these adorable little "meat"loaves that are full of everything but meat and calories. Not to mention how EASY they are :)

Mini "Meat"loaves
Serves 2

• 1 green pepper
• 1 small onion
• 4 oz mushrooms
• 6 oz veggie protein crumbles (I use Lightlife's Smart Ground original....if using frozen crumbles, thaw first)
• 1/4 cup bread crumbs
• 2 Tb. Parmesan (vegetarian is available at most Natural foods stores)
• 1 Tb. Italian seasoning
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 Tb. ketchup
• 1 Tb. brown sugar
• 1 tsp dry mustard

Preheat oven to 350°F. Dice the green pepper, onion and mushrooms and add to a large bowl.

Add the crumbles, bread crumbs, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. 

Mix well.

Add egg and mix thoroughly. In a separate, small bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and dry mustard until smooth. 

Spray 6 regular muffin cups with nonstick spray. Form 6 round "loaves" using your palm and a spoon. This part is a little difficult to keep the loaves together so be sure to be delicate. Spread ketchup glaze evenly on top of the loaves. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean. Try not to over-bake or they may be overly dry.

Nutritional Information (3 loaves with glaze): 303 calories, 5.5 g fat (1.8 g sat), 12.8 g fiber, 28.5 g protein

Seeeee? Nutritious!! I love these little "meat"loaves. But then again, is there anything itty bitty that I don't like?

...yup. PEAS.

The holidays are coming! The holidays are coming! How exciting. I just love all the cooking that the holidays bring. I sure hope I can still enjoy it with these two crazy classes I'm currently taking. I'm going to have to fight tooth and nail for just an A- in this stupid math class. 

I'm super excited about Thanksgiving in just over a week! I love Thanksgiving. It's like a virtual archway to Christmas. A big, giant meal with great food to ring in the holiday spirit. It is a little different from a vegetarian standpoint. But, there's no Tofurky for me! I'm just going to eat a bunch of sides, which (face it!) are the best parts anyway! I'm making green bean casserole, twice-baked sweet potatoes, mushroom gravy, dinner rolls...can you tell I'm excited?! :)

Until next time...♥