This Turkey Meatloaf is a yummy and healthy twist on a classic dish! It’s packed with lean turkey and hidden veggies, making it tasty and fun to eat.
I love how easy it is to make! Just mix everything together, shape it, and let it bake. It’s perfect for leftovers too. Who doesn’t enjoy a good meatloaf sandwich? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Lean ground turkey is great for this meatloaf, keeping it light and healthy. If you want more flavor, you could mix in some ground beef or chicken, but you’ll want to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Bread Crumbs: I prefer plain breadcrumbs because they let the turkey shine. But if you have seasoned ones, that works too! If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats as a substitute.
Milk: Any kind of milk works here! Almond milk or soy milk can also be great alternatives if you’re dairy-free.
Zucchini: Adding grated zucchini keeps the meatloaf moist. You can swap it for carrots or even spinach if you want to hide some greens in there!
Ketchup: This is a key part of the glaze. If you prefer, you could use BBQ sauce for a different flavor profile!
How Do You Make Sure Your Meatloaf Stays Moist?
Keeping turkey meatloaf moist is crucial because turkey can dry out quickly. One way to do this is by adding the soaked breadcrumbs and grated vegetables. They help to retain moisture during baking.
- Soak breadcrumbs in milk to improve texture and moisture.
- Mix in grated veggies like zucchini which add moisture and nutrition.
- Don’t overmix the meatloaf mixture! Gentle folding keeps it tender.
Also, let the meatloaf rest after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is flavorful and moist!
Turkey Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground turkey (preferably lean)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup grated zucchini or finely minced vegetables (optional, for moisture and nutrition)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup ketchup (for glaze)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (for glaze)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (for glaze)
Estimated Time Required:
This turkey meatloaf takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45-55 minutes to bake. You’ll spend some time mixing and shaping the meatloaf, and then you just let it bake and fill your kitchen with delicious aromas!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the meatloaf bakes evenly. Prepare a baking sheet or a loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
2. Soak the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the milk. Let them soak for about 5 minutes until they soften and absorb the milk, giving your meatloaf a delicious texture.
3. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, soaked breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, chopped parsley, grated zucchini (if you’re using it), salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Gently mix everything together until well combined, but be careful not to overmix. You want it all to come together without being too tough.
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan. If you’re using a baking sheet, shape it into a loaf shape. Make sure it’s compact so it holds together while cooking.
5. Make the Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. This will create a tangy, sweet glaze that really enhances the flavor of the meatloaf.
6. Apply the Glaze:
Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf, making sure to cover it well. This will give it a delicious crust as it bakes.
7. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and it’s no longer pink inside.
8. Finish with More Glaze:
During the last 10 minutes of baking, spread the remaining glaze on top, allowing it to form a sticky finish that will caramelize nicely.
9. Let It Rest:
Once the meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This will help the juices redistribute for a tender slice.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with extra chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful turkey meatloaf!
This recipe offers a juicy, flavorful turkey meatloaf with a classic tangy glaze on top, perfect for a comforting meal!
Can I Substitute Ground Turkey for Other Meats?
Absolutely! You can use ground chicken, beef, or even pork. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary based on the type of meat used. Ensure it reaches the appropriate internal temperature for safety.
How Can I Keep Turkey Meatloaf Moist?
To keep your turkey meatloaf moist, add soaked breadcrumbs and grated vegetables like zucchini. Avoid overmixing the meat, and let it rest after baking to lock in juices.
Can I Make this Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just shape it and apply the glaze right before baking it to ensure freshness!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Enjoy them in sandwiches or as a meal on their own!
