Turkey Meatloaf Recipe

Name: Turkey Meatloaf Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lb Ground Turkey (Lean ground turkey); 1 cup Bread Crumbs (Plain bread crumbs); 1 Egg (Large); 0.5 cup Onion (Diced); 0.25 cup Ketchup; 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce; 1 tsp Garlic Powder; 0.5 tsp Salt; 0.25 tsp Black Pepper

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What is comfort food? When the weather gets chilly, and I’m craving something hearty but not *too* heavy, this **turkey** is for me. What are some good meatloaf recipes? Forget dry, bland meatloaf of your childhood nightmares! What is the secret ingredient that makes this moist, flavorful, and easy to make? Think of it like the meatloaf version of your favorite Sunday roast, but way easier and quicker to make. Is this recipe similar to my Grandma’s beef meatloaf?

What is turkey meatloaf?

What is turkey meatloaf? Is it healthier than beef? Instead of Ground Beef, we use ground turkey, which is leaner and lighter. Why don’t we sacrifice flavor here? It’s essentially ground turkey mixed with breadcrumbs, eggs, seasonings, and often veggies, formed into a ball. What is the best way to make a loaf and bake it until golden brown. Think of it as a giant, savory turkey burger, but baked instead of grilled. What is a meatloaf? What’s a good way to enjoy classic comfort food with an easy twist? My family loves it, and I think yours will too.

Why do I love this recipe?

Let me count the ways! What I love most about this **turkey meatloaf recipe** is that it’s a total crowd-pleaser. My kids, who can be notoriously picky eaters, devour it. And honestly, I don’t blame them!
• **Flavor:** The combination of savory turkey, sweet onions, and tangy glaze creates a flavor explosion in your mouth. I use a blend of Italian seasoning and smoked paprika, which gives it this amazing depth of flavor you just can’t beat.
• **Simplicity:** This recipe is incredibly easy to make, even on a busy weeknight. Seriously, you just throw everything in a bowl, mix it up, and bake it. It’s practically foolproof! This is a lifesaver on those nights when takeout is calling your name.
• **Cost-efficiency:** Ground turkey is often more affordable than Ground Beef, making this a budget-friendly meal. Plus, you probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry! We are saving money while eating good. Win win!
• **Versatility:** You can serve this **turkey meatloaf** with just about anything! Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a simple salad… the possibilities are endless. I especially love it with roasted sweet potatoes – the sweetness complements the savory meatloaf perfectly.
Compared to other recipes, this one is so forgiving! You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand. Try adding different veggies, using different herbs, or experimenting with different glazes. Trust me, you can’t go wrong! This turkey meatloaf is truly adaptable and my personal favorite meatloaf recipe.

How do you make turkey meatloaf?

Quick Overview

What are some easy turkey meatloaf recipes? How do you make a loaf? Mix all the ingredients together in the same bowl. Is it a good idea to bake it in the oven until it’s cooked through? What is the secret ingredient? What is Worcestershire sauce? Don’t be intimidated – it’s truly simple and the end result is so worth it! What are some of the best recipes to make a dinner from scratch?

Ingredients

For the Turkey Meatloaf:

• 2 pounds ground turkey (I prefer 85% lean)

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (I use panko for extra crunch, but regular works too)

• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion (yellow or white, your choice)

• 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper (adds a nice sweetness)

• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (this is the secret ingredient)

• 1 tablespoon ketchup

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a nice smoky flavor)

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Glaze:

• 1/2 cup ketchup

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark, doesn’t matter)

• 1 tablespoon Apple Cider vinegar (adds a nice tang)

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

How do I follow step

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. I always add a little extra non-stick spray because nothing is worse than meatloaf that sticks to the skin.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, chopped onion, green bell pepper, minced garlic, Italian seasoning and salt. Set aside. Seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is evenly distributed for the best flavor.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Set aside. All the wet ingredients should be whisked separately in a large bowl. This helps to make sure they are all well combined. Add to the dry.

Step 4: Combine

What are the wet ingredients in a bowl? Gently mix everything together with your hands until just combined. How do I make a tough meatloaf? I always use my hands for this part – it’s just easier to get everything mixed properly. Is it true that overmixing meatloaf can cause it to seize up?

Step 5: Shape the Loaf

Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Gently press it down to create an even loaf shape. I like to round the top slightly for a more aesthetically pleasing presentation, but it really works. Does it matter?

Step 6: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, Apple Cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Set aside. What goes from good to amazing meatloaf? The brown sugar caramelizes in the oven, creating a beautiful, sticky, sweet, and tangy crust.

Step 7: Glaze & Bake

Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). I always use a meat thermometer to make sure it’s cooked through. Nobody wants undercooked turkey! If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover it with foil during the last 15-20 minutes. How long does it take to bake

Step 8: Rest

Remove meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful meatloaf. I know it’s tempting to dig right in, but trust me, it is worth the wait!

Step 9: Slice & Serve

Slice meatloaf and serve warm. I like to garnish it with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy!

What should I serve it with?

What is the beauty of turkey meatloaf? What are some of my favorite songs?

Classic Comfort: What is mashed potatoes and gravy are a classic pairing for meatloaf. The creamy potatoes and rich gravy complement the savory meatloaf perfectly.

Roasted VegetRoasted vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, and Brussels sprouts are a healthy and delicious snack. I like to toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a little bit of garlic powder before roasting.

Sweet Potatoes: As I mentioned earlier, roasted sweet potatoes are a perfect complement to this **turkey meatloaf**. The sweetness of the sweet potatoes balances the savory flavor of the meatloaf.

Green Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a refreshing and light side dish that cuts through the richness of the meatloaf.

Mac and Cheese: For an extra indulgent meal, serve this **turkey Meatloaf Recipe** with homemade mac and cheese. It’s the ultimate comfort food combination!

My family always requests mashed potatoes and roasted green beans with this meatloaf. It’s a classic combo that never gets old. I also sometimes serve it with a side of cranberry sauce, especially during the holidays. The tartness of the cranberry sauce adds a nice contrast to the savory meatloaf.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Turkey Meatloaf

Here are a few tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years for making the perfect **turkey meatloaf**:

Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the meat mixture can result in a tough meatloaf. Mix everything together gently until just combined.

Use Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help to bind the meatloaf together and keep it moist. I prefer panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work just as well.

Add Vegetables: Adding finely chopped vegetables, such as onions, bell peppers, and carrots, adds flavor and moisture to the meatloaf.

Use a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure that your meatloaf is cooked through. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Let It Rest: Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful meatloaf.

Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors! Try adding different herbs, spices, or sauces to the meat mixture or the glaze. I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little bit of heat, or a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar to the glaze for a more complex flavor.
One time, I accidentally added too much salt to the meat mixture. To balance it out, I added a tablespoon of brown sugar and a squeeze of lemon juice. It actually turned out even better than usual!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Room Temperature: Cooked **turkey meatloaf** can be left at room temperature for up to 2 hours.

Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s cooled down completely before storing it.

Freezer Instructions: You can freeze cooked meatloaf for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or store it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Tips: Reheat leftover meatloaf in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but it may become a bit dry. I like to add a little bit of water or broth to the bottom of the dish to keep it moist.

I usually slice the meatloaf before freezing it, so I can easily grab a portion for a quick lunch or dinner. It’s also a good idea to add a little bit of fresh glaze before reheating to keep it moist and flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. I’ve tested this with several brands, and they all work well. Just make sure to check the label to ensure they are truly gluten-free. You might also need to add a little bit of extra liquid, as gluten-free breadcrumbs tend to be drier.

Do I need to peel the onion and bell pepper?

Nope, you don’t need to peel them. Just make sure to wash them thoroughly before chopping. The peels actually add a bit of extra fiber and nutrients, so there’s no need to remove them. However, if you prefer a smoother texture, you can peel them if you like.

Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?

Yes, you can! Ground chicken is a great substitute for ground turkey in this recipe. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious. Just make sure to use a similar lean-to-fat ratio.

How can I make the glaze spicier?

You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze for a little bit of heat. Start with a small amount and taste as you go, to avoid making it too spicy. You could also use a spicy ketchup.

Can I add cheese to the meatloaf?

Absolutely! Adding cheese to the meatloaf is a great way to add extra flavor and moisture. I recommend using a shredded cheese, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone. You can add it directly to the meat mixture or sprinkle it on top before baking.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my go-to **turkey meatloaf recipe**! It’s easy, delicious, and always a hit with my family. The blend of flavors and textures, combined with the simple cooking method, makes this a winner every time. It’s a recipe I keep coming back to again and again, and I hope you’ll love it just as much as we do. If you enjoy this recipe, you might also like my classic beef meatloaf or my Chicken Pot Pie. They’re all equally comforting and delicious! Happy cooking! Can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. Be sure to leave a comment below and let me know if you try it. I would love to hear any variations you come up with!

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