Let’s talk comfort food. Do you remember those weeknight dinners growing up, the ones that smelled like home? For me, it was always meatloaf. My grandmother’s recipe was legendary, but honestly, it was a little… dense. What is a lighter, brighter, and dare I say, even more delicious take on turkey? Think of it as the meatloaf your mom made, but with a modern twist. Is this a good food for picky eaters?
What is turkey meatloaf?
What is turkey meatloaf? Is it a healthier alternative to meatloaf? Instead of GROUND BEEF, we’re using ground turkey, which instantly makes it lighter and lower in fat. Is it still packed with flavor and that wonderful, comforting texture we all crave? Feels heavy or greasy. What is essentially a big loaf of deliciousness, seasoned to perfection and baked until golden brown. What is the secret weapon that elevates it from good to unforgettable?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some of the best Turkey Meatloaf recipes? What I love most is how it manages to be both incredibly flavorful and ridiculously easy. The flavor is just outstanding! We’re talking savory herbs, a hint of sweetness from the glaze, and that wonderful umami depth that we’ve come to love. Why do I keep coming back for more? Is it addictive?
What is the best part? It’s so easy to make. Even on the busiest of weeknights, I can whip this up with minimal fuss. What are some good ways to throw everything in a bowl, mix it, shape it and bake it… done! And let’s not forget about the cost. Why is ground turkey cheaper than GROUND BEEF? What is the best flavor? Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. Can you serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, salad… the possibilities are endless. What are some good ways to serve this sandwich the next day? What is the difference between a turkey and chicken meatloaf?
How do you make turkey meatloaf?
Quick Overview
How do I make turkey meatloaf? First, we’ll combine all the ingredients in a bowl, being careful not to overmix. How do I shape it into a loaf, slather it with that amazing glaze, and bake it until it’s cooked through? How do you keep a moist rag clean? Is it easier than you think?
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 2 pounds ground turkey (I prefer 93% lean)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (I use panko for extra texture)
- 1/2 cup milk (I tested this with almond milk and it actually made it even creamier!)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten. 1 small egg.
- 1/2 cup finely diced onion.
- 1/4 cup finely diced bell pepper (any color works!)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced. 1 clove per
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce. 1 tablespoon Worcester sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard. 1 teaspoon salt.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano per serving.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. 1 teaspoon salt.
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup. 1/2
- What is brown sugar? 2 tablespoons.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar. 1 cup water.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard. 1 cup sage
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan (9×5 inch) with cooking spray. I always do this first so I don’t forget and end up with a stuck meatloaf!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed. How do you avoid clumps of spices in meatloaf?
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Add the cheese and stir until combined. Make sure the egg is fully incorporated for a smooth mixture.
Step 4: Combine
What are the wet ingredients in a bowl? Add the ground turkey, onion, bell pepper, and garlic to a large bowl. Mix well. Gently mix everything together with your hands until just combined. Do not over mix meatloaf, as this can result in a tough meat.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, Brown Sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Set aside. What makes meatloaf sing?
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared loaf pan and gently shape it into a loaf. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. I like to make swirls with a knife for pretty presentation, but that’s totally optional.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). I always use a meat thermometer. Let meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Let the meatloaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cutting board. This helps it hold its shape. If you want an extra glossy finish, you can brush on a little more glaze after it’s cooled slightly.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
Slice meatloaf into even slices and serve warm. I love serving it with mashed potatoes and Green Beans, but it’s also delicious with salad.
What is the best way to serve it?
What are some good side dishes to serve with turkey meat?
What is a classic dinner?What are some good recipes for mashed potatoes and gravy? I also love serving it with roasted Green Beans or steamed broccoli. My family never gets tired of this combination.
For a lighter meal: A simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing is perfect for a lighter option. You could also serve it with roasted asparagus or zucchini.
For Comfort Food Overload: Mac and cheese is always a winner! Seriously, who doesn’t love meatloaf and mac and cheese? Add a side of corn on the cob for the ultimate comfort food meal.
As Leftovers: The next day, slice it up and make meatloaf sandwiches! Use your favorite bread, add some lettuce, tomato, and a little mayo or mustard. It’s the perfect lunch!
My family also loves it with some cornbread. It’s a total southern comfort meal when you put those two together. This recipe is perfect when you’re craving something sweet at 10pm but don’t want to bake a whole cake. It is just so satisfying.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Turkey Meatloaf
After making this Turkey meatloaf recipe countless times, I’ve learned a few tricks to ensure it’s always perfect.
Don’t Overmix: This is the most important tip! Overmixing the meatloaf can result in a tough, dry texture. Mix just until everything is combined.
Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the center of the meatloaf and cook until it reaches 165°F (74°C).
Let It Rest: Letting the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moister, more flavorful meatloaf.
Add Moisture: If you find your meatloaf is dry, try adding a little more milk or even some grated zucchini to the mixture. This will help keep it moist.
Customize the Glaze: Don’t be afraid to experiment with the glaze! You can add a little sriracha for a spicy kick, or a tablespoon of maple syrup for a sweeter flavor. I like to add a little bit of BBQ sauce for a smoky taste!
Don’t Skip the Vegetables: The onion, bell pepper, and garlic not only add flavor, but they also help keep the meatloaf moist. Don’t skip them!
I learned the tip about adding grated zucchini after years of making it. It really makes a difference and the kids don’t even realize they are eating zucchini!
Storing and Reheating Tips
This Turkey meatloaf recipe is great for meal prepping because it stores and reheats so well.
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving it out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it cools down completely before storing.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the meatloaf in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but the texture might not be as good. Add a little bit of water to the dish when reheating in the oven to keep it moist.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you plan on freezing the meatloaf, it’s best to add the glaze after thawing and reheating. This will prevent the glaze from becoming sticky or runny.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This Turkey Meatloaf Recipe is more than just a recipe to me; it’s a slice of home. It’s a reminder of family dinners and comforting flavors. The fact that it’s easy, healthy, and delicious is just a bonus! If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that everyone will love, this is it. It’s seriously one of the best turkey meatloaf recipes out there. And if you enjoy this, you’ll definitely want to check out my other meatloaf variations – I’m always experimenting with new flavors! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how your Turkey Meatloaf turns out! Let me know in the comments if you try it, and don’t forget to rate the recipe!
Turkey Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ground turkey 93% lean recommended
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg egg
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 1 cup ketchup
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, and ketchup. Mix well.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
- Bake for 60 minutes, or until cooked through.
