This turkey meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic dish. Made with lean turkey, breadcrumbs, and savory spices, it’s a healthier option that doesn’t skimp on flavor!
It’s perfect for family dinners, and leftovers make great sandwiches! I love topping mine with a bit of ketchup for extra zing—so good! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Lean ground turkey is great for this recipe as it keeps the meatloaf moist without excess fat. If you prefer, you can substitute it with ground chicken or even lean beef. Just adjust cooking times if needed.
Breadcrumbs: I use plain breadcrumbs, but seasoned ones can add extra flavor. If you’re gluten-free, try almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Oats can also work well as a substitute.
Onion and Garlic: These add wonderful flavor! If you’re out, use onion powder or minced shallots instead. For a milder taste, consider using green onions.
Ketchup: Ketchup gives a nice glaze; however, you can swap it with BBQ sauce or a homemade tomato glaze if you want to mix it up.
How Do I Prevent My Meatloaf From Being Dense?
Preventing a dense meatloaf comes down to proper mixing and cooking. Here are some important tips:
- Mix gently—overmixing can lead to a tough texture. Just combine until everything is moistened.
- Let the mixture rest for a few minutes; this allows the breadcrumbs to absorb moisture—resulting in a tenderness.
- Don’t skip the resting step after baking—letting it sit for 10 minutes helps juices redistribute, making the slices juicier!
Enjoy making your turkey meatloaf as you perfect your technique!
Turkey Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds ground turkey (preferably lean)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Optional: 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
How Much Time Will You Need?
This turkey meatloaf takes roughly 15 minutes to prepare and about 50 to 60 minutes to bake. Plus, you’ll want to let it rest for about 10 minutes after baking, making the total time around 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf cooks evenly and nicely. If you’re using a loaf pan, lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper to make cleaning up a breeze later on.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, chopped parsley, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything gently but thoroughly until just combined. It’s important not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
3. Add Flavor Boosters:
Add the ½ cup of ketchup and the Worcestershire sauce to the bowl. If you’re using Dijon mustard, go ahead and add that too! Mix again until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the turkey mixture to your prepared loaf pan or, if you prefer, shape it into a loaf on a lined baking sheet. Gently press the mixture to ensure even thickness across the loaf.
5. Prepare for Baking:
Spread a thin, even layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf. This will give it a beautiful glaze as it bakes!
6. Bake it Up:
Place the meatloaf in your preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the glaze is bubbly and lightly browned.
7. Rest and Slice:
Once it’s cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial! It allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meatloaf, making it much easier to slice and more delicious.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
After resting, garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, slice the meatloaf, and serve warm. Pair with extra ketchup or your favorite sauce on the side. Enjoy this delicious and healthy twist on a classic dish!
Bon appétit and happy cooking!
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken can be used as a substitute for turkey in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly based on the fat content.
How Can I Make This Meatloaf Gluten-Free?
To make this turkey meatloaf gluten-free, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats. Just ensure they are certified gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftover turkey meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Meatloaf Mixture?
Yes! Chopped bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini can be added for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to finely chop or grate them so they blend well with the meatloaf mixture.
