Juicy Turkey Meatloaf Recipe: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic

Crafting a seriously mouthwatering turkey meatloaf can revolutionize your weeknight dinner routine.

Meat lovers and health-conscious cooks alike will adore this simple yet satisfying dish.

Rich in flavor and packed with lean protein, this recipe brings comfort to your table without heavy calories.

Herbs and spices create a symphony of taste that makes every bite memorable.

Home kitchens sparkle with warmth when this savory classic emerges from the oven.

Crispy edges and tender center guarantee a meal that disappears quickly from dinner plates.

You won’t be able to resist cutting another slice of this irresistible comfort food.

Store and Reheat Turkey Meatloaf Correctly

• Store leftover turkey meatloaf in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap individual slices or whole meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freezes well for up to 3 months. Label with date for tracking.
• Place slice on microwave-safe plate, cover with damp paper towel. Heat at 50% power for 1-2 minutes, checking temperature to ensure even warming.
• Preheat oven to 325F. Place meatloaf slice in baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165F.

Side Ideas for Juicy Turkey Meatloaf

• Pair Robust Red Wine: Select a medium-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or Chianti to complement the savory turkey meatloaf's rich flavors and cut through its slight sweetness from the honey glaze.
• Create Zesty Side Salad: Prepare a crisp green salad with arugula, fresh herbs, and a tangy vinaigrette to balance the meatloaf's hearty texture and provide a refreshing contrast.
• Match Roasted Vegetable Medley: Roast seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, and sweet potatoes with olive oil and herbs to enhance the meatloaf's herbal notes and add colorful nutrition to the plate.
• Serve Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Whip smooth, buttery mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic and chives to create a comforting accompaniment that absorbs the meatloaf's delicious glaze and provides a classic comfort food experience.

Recipe Variations for Juicy Turkey Meatloaf

• Gluten-Free Option: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Vegetarian Transformation: Swap ground turkey with plant-based ground meat alternatives like Beyond Meat or lentil-based crumbles for a meat-free version.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs and replace honey with a sugar-free sweetener to reduce carbohydrate content.
• Spicy Mediterranean Spin: Add red pepper flakes, diced bell peppers, and swap some herbs with za'atar seasoning for a zesty Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.

FAQs

• Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works perfectly as a substitute. The cooking method and measurements remain the same, providing a similar lean protein option.

• How do I prevent the meatloaf from becoming dry?

Adding milk and egg helps retain moisture. Also, avoid overmixing the meat, which can make it tough, and ensure you don’t overbake by checking the internal temperature at 50 minutes.

• What if I don't have fresh herbs?

Dried herbs are an excellent alternative. Use about 1/3 the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh, as dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor. If you’re missing a specific herb, you can omit it or substitute with another complementary herb.

• Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it in the pan, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a convenient make-ahead meal for busy days.

Juicy Turkey Meatloaf That’s Big on Comfort

• This turkey meatloaf transforms dinner into a hassle-free experience with minimal prep and straightforward ingredients anyone can handle.
• Packed with lean ground turkey and fresh herbs, this recipe offers a healthier alternative to traditional beef meatloaf without sacrificing flavor.
• The sweet and tangy glaze plus tender meat creates a crowd-pleasing dish that both adults and children will eagerly devour at the dinner table.
• Flexible recipe allows quick ingredient swaps or additions, making it perfect for accommodating different taste preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients for Juicy Turkey Meatloaf

• Ground Turkey: Lean meat that provides the base and protein for the meatloaf.

• Breadcrumbs, Milk, Egg: These ingredients help hold the meatloaf together and create a tender texture.

• Onion, Garlic: Aromatic vegetables that add depth and savory notes to the meatloaf.
• Oregano, Basil, Thyme: Herbs that contribute a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
• Salt, Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• Ketchup, Honey, Apple Cider Vinegar: A sweet and tangy combination that creates a delicious caramelized topping for the meatloaf.

• Olive Oil: Used to sauté the onion and garlic, adding richness to the base flavors.

How to Make a Juicy Turkey Meatloaf

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Surface

Warm up the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Get your baking surface ready by either greasing a loaf pan or laying down parchment paper on a baking sheet.

Step 2: Sauté Flavor Builders

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium flame.

Toss in onions and garlic, cooking them for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.

Let the mixture cool down completely.

Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf Base

• Ground turkey
• Breadcrumbs
• Milk
• Egg
• Oregano
• Basil
• Thyme
• Salt
• Pepper

Fold in the cooled onion and garlic mixture.

Gently mix everything together, being careful not to overwork the meat.

Step 4: Shape the Meatloaf

Form the meat mixture into a classic loaf shape and transfer it to your prepared baking surface.

Step 5: Create a Tangy Glaze

• Ketchup
• Honey
• Apple cider vinegar

Spread this glaze evenly across the top of the meatloaf.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the meatloaf into the preheated oven.

Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after removing it from the oven.

This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and delicious.

Slice and enjoy your homemade turkey meatloaf!

Turkey Meatloaf Tips That Work

• Use a mix of ground turkey and ground pork for added moisture, ensuring a juicy texture that doesn't crumble when sliced.
• Brush the honey-ketchup mixture halfway through baking to create a caramelized, sticky coating that adds depth of flavor and prevents the top from burning.
• Use fresh breadcrumbs and milk to keep the meatloaf tender, avoiding dry spots by mixing ingredients just until combined without overworking the meat.
• Always use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165F, guaranteeing food safety and perfectly cooked meatloaf.
• Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after baking, which helps redistribute juices and makes slicing cleaner and more manageable.

Juicy Turkey Meatloaf Recipe

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4.6 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Comforting midweek dinners find new meaning with this hearty Turkey Meatloaf, packed with rich herbs and hidden vegetable goodness. Served alongside creamy mashed potatoes, you’ll savor each tender, flavorful bite that brings warmth to the family table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1 pound (454 grams) ground turkey

Dry and Binding Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Liquid and Flavor Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 350F (175C) and prepare a loaf pan or parchment-lined baking sheet for the turkey mixture.
2. Gently sauté onions and garlic in olive oil over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until translucent, then allow to cool completely.
3. Combine ground turkey with breadcrumbs, milk, egg, and herbs in a spacious mixing bowl, ensuring a delicate blend without excessive handling.
4. Transfer the meat mixture into a cohesive loaf shape, positioning it centrally on the prepared baking surface.
5. Craft a tangy glaze by whisking together ketchup, honey, and apple cider vinegar until smooth and well-integrated.
6. Generously brush the glaze across the entire surface of the uncooked meatloaf, creating an even, glistening coating.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, monitoring until the internal temperature precisely reaches 165F (74C).
8. Remove from oven and allow the meatloaf to rest undisturbed for 10 minutes, enabling juices to redistribute and ensuring a moist, tender texture.
9. Slice and serve the aromatic, herb-infused turkey meatloaf, enjoying the harmonious blend of flavors.

Notes

• Prevent dryness by using a combination of ground turkey and ground pork for extra moisture and flavor.
• Enhance texture by avoiding overmixing the meat, which can make the meatloaf tough and dense.
• Swap breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or ground oats for a gluten-free version.
• Add grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots to boost nutrition and keep the meatloaf moist and tender.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 26 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg