Ground Turkey Meatloaf Recipe – TBMW

This ground turkey meatloaf is a simple and delicious dinner recipe that takes minutes to make! It’s perfectly juicy and tender every single time.

Craving comfort food but wanting it a little healthier? Try this ground turkey meatloaf recipe.

It’s a healthier and just as delicious alternative to a beef meatloaf. It needs minimal prep and tastes incredible.

Why this recipe works

This meatloaf may look incredibly fancy, but I promise you, it is so easy to whip up.

• All made in one dish. Seriously, the same bowl mixes the meatloaf, and then it mixes the glaze- You only have one bowl to wash!
• Healthy. Turkey is naturally low in calories, packed with protein, and has few carbs.
• It’s easy to make ahead. This meatloaf is the perfect easy dinner for a busy weeknight because you can prep it beforehand. Once dinner time rolls around, simply throw it in the oven!
• Perfect texture and flavor. The texture of the meatloaf is extra juicy and moist, with a sticky glaze on top. It’s perfectly seasoned, and the glaze gives it a lovely smoky sweetness.

Ingredients needed

This turkey meatloaf is so easy, and besides the breadcrumbs and eggs, there isn’t much else that is needed to make. Here is what you’ll need:

• Ground turkey– Standard or lean ground turkey can be used. Avoid using extra lean or fat free turkey, as you risk the meatloaf being quite dry and chewy. 
• Onion and garlic– Finely chopped. 
• Eggs– Room temperature eggs. 
• Ketchup– Opt for a ketchup that has the least amount of added sugar in it.
• Milk of choice– I used unsweetened almond milk, but any milk works. 
• Parsley– Finely chopped and fresh, not dried!
• Panko breadcrumbs– Acts as a binder and helps absorb some of the moisture so the meatloaf won’t be overly soft or watery.

• Salt and pepper– To taste. 
• Italian seasonings– Adds some lovely flavor with no myriad of herbs! 

Glaze

• Ketchup– Used again for the topping.
• Vinegar– White or apple cider vinegar. 
• Brown sugar– To balance out the tang from the ketchup and vinegar and add a subtle molasses flavor.

How to make ground turkey meatloaf 

Meatloaf with ground turkey is easy to make: just remember to remove any excess moisture from the meat first.

1. Make the mixture: Mix all the meatloaf ingredients in a mixing bowl and mix until fully combined.
2. Bake: Transfer the mixture to a greased loaf pan and bake for 40 minutes.
3. Make the glaze: While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the ketchup, vinegar, and brown sugar.
4. Glaze and serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush the top with the glaze. Bake for a further 15 minutes before letting the meatloaf sit for 10 minutes, then slice and serve.

Tips to make the best recipe

• Mix gently: When making the meatloaf mixture, avoid over-mixing. This can result in a gummy or rubbery dish.
• Avoid extra lean turkey: Or fat-free ground turkey. Having a little fat in the ground meat will ensure the meatloaf remains juicy and tender.
• Mix the turkey with other meat: Did you know a classic meatloaf typically uses two kinds of ground meat? You can swap half the turkey for ground chicken, pork, or beef. It will be even more flavorful.
• Add grated vegetables: Grated carrots, zucchini, and even shallots will not only add nutrients to the meatloaf, but they add more moisture, too.
• Change up the seasonings: Add smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, or chili powder, or use a different sauce on top.

Storage instructions

To store: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to one week.

To freeze: Place cooked and cooled slices of the meatloaf in a ziplock bag and store them in the freezer for up to six months.

Reheating: Microwave in 20-second increments until warm or in a preheated oven.

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Frequently Asked Questions