This turkey meatloaf is a tasty twist on the classic. It’s made with lean ground turkey and packed with flavor from herbs and veggies. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrition.
I love how easy it is to make! Just mix the ingredients, shape it, and pop it in the oven. It’s perfect served with mashed potatoes or a side of veggies. Your family will love it! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the star ingredient. I prefer lean ground turkey for a healthier option, but you can use ground chicken or lean beef if you like.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh is always best! Both add moisture and a ton of flavor. If you’re in a pinch, onion powder and garlic powder can work as substitutes.
Breadcrumbs: They help bind the meatloaf. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed oats. I usually make my own breadcrumbs from leftover bread for extra freshness.
Ketchup: This adds sweetness and moisture. If you’re avoiding sugar, try sugar-free ketchup or a homemade tomato sauce instead.
How Do You Make Turkey Meatloaf Stay Moist?
Keeping turkey meatloaf moist can be tricky since turkey is leaner than beef. Here are some tips:
- Soak your breadcrumbs in milk to add moisture before mixing them in.
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture; this can make it tough. Just mix until combined.
- Baste with gravy or ketchup halfway through baking to keep it juicy.
- Allow it to rest after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, making each slice tender.
Turkey Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds ground turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for topping)
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This turkey meatloaf takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 55 to 65 minutes to bake. So, you’ll be looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes total before it’s ready to serve. Perfect for a cozy family dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is a good temperature for cooking the meatloaf evenly.
2. Prepare the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk. Let them sit for a few minutes until they absorb the milk and become soft. This will help the meatloaf stay moist!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the ground turkey, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if you opted to use it). Mix everything gently but thoroughly until it’s all combined.
4. Form the Loaf:
Shape the mixture into a loaf using your hands, or simply press it firmly into a greased or parchment-lined loaf pan. Make sure it’s nice and compact!
5. Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, stir together the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar (if you’re using it). Spread this delicious glaze evenly over the top of your meatloaf. It adds a nice flavor!
6. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If you like, you can baste the meatloaf with its own juices or additional glaze halfway through baking to keep it juicy.
7. Let It Rest:
Once it’s done baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This will help it hold together when you slice it.
8. Serve It Up:
Garnish with extra chopped parsley for a pop of color, and serve your turkey meatloaf warm. It goes great with mashed potatoes or whatever side dishes you prefer!
Enjoy your moist and flavorful turkey meatloaf with a tangy tomato glaze!
Can I Substitute Ground Turkey with Other Meats?
Absolutely! You can use ground chicken, lean beef, or even a mix of meats if you prefer. Just keep in mind that different meats may require different cooking times or temperatures.
What Can I Use Instead of Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, try using crushed crackers, oats, or even finely chopped vegetables for a gluten-free option. Just make sure to adjust the moisture levels as needed.
How Should I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Meatloaf?
Definitely! Chopped bell peppers, carrots, or spinach can be added to the mixture for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to keep the total volume of the mixture consistent to ensure it holds together.
