Turkey meatloaf is a lighter version of the classic meatloaf, offering the same comforting flavors with fewer calories. This recipe combines lean ground turkey with a blend of seasonings, breadcrumbs, and a touch of ketchup for extra moisture. Topped with a sweet and tangy glaze, this turkey meatloaf is sure to become a family favorite, delivering a wholesome meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Loaf pan (or baking sheet lined with parchment)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small bowl
- Spatula
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds lean ground turkey
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat or panko)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Glaze:
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for tanginess)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper if shaping the meatloaf by hand. - Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, diced onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatloaf dense. - Shape the Meatloaf
Place the turkey mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down evenly, or shape it into a loaf on the parchment-lined baking sheet. - Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf. - Bake the Meatloaf
Bake for 45 minutes, then remove from the oven and spread the remaining glaze on top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). - Serve
Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a side salad.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve slices over a bed of mashed potatoes with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for color.
- Pair with roasted vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts for a wholesome plate.
- Add an extra drizzle of glaze on each slice for a burst of flavor and color.
Tips:
- To add extra moisture, sauté the diced onions before mixing them in.
- Use a combination of light and dark ground turkey for a slightly richer flavor and texture.
- Leftovers can be used to make turkey meatloaf sandwiches—perfect with a slice of cheese and a dollop of the glaze!
This turkey meatloaf recipe brings a healthier twist to a beloved comfort food. With a tender texture, savory herbs, and a tangy glaze, it’s packed with flavor while staying light. Perfect for any family dinner, this turkey meatloaf is as easy to make as it is delicious, offering a cozy meal that everyone will enjoy.
Turkey Meatloaf Recipe
This moist and flavorful turkey meatloaf is a healthier take on a classic comfort dish. Made with lean ground turkey, herbs, and a tangy glaze, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners!
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Loaf pan (or baking sheet lined with parchment)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small bowl
- Spatula
Ingredients
- For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds lean ground turkey
- 1 cup breadcrumbs whole wheat or panko
- 1 small onion finely diced
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Glaze:
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar optional, for tanginess
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper if shaping the meatloaf by hand.
- Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, diced onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
- Shape the Meatloaf
- Place the turkey mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down evenly, or shape it into a loaf on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Make the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake the Meatloaf
- Bake for 45 minutes, then remove from the oven and spread the remaining glaze on top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a side salad.
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