Simply the Best Turkey Meatloaf Recipe
When it comes to comfort food, meatloaf is a classic that warms both the heart and the belly. But let’s be honest—turkey meatloaf doesn’t always get the love it deserves, often dismissed as bland or dry. Not this one! Our Simply the Best Turkey Meatloaf Recipe is a game-changer, packed with flavor, tender in every bite, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a healthier spin on a traditional favorite or just a foolproof dinner idea, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Get ready to wow your family (or just yourself!) with a dish that redefines turkey meatloaf.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
- 1 Onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the meatloaf, keeping it moist and aromatic.
- 2 Tbsp Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the onion, enhancing its flavor while preventing it from sticking to the pan.
- 1 Tsp Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of the turkey and other ingredients.
- ½ Tsp Black Ground Pepper: Adds a subtle kick and balances the dish with a touch of spice.
- ½ Tsp Thyme (dried): A fragrant herb that adds earthy, savory notes to the meatloaf.
- ¼ Cup Worcestershire Sauce: Boosts umami and adds a rich, tangy flavor to the mixture..
- ½ Cup Chicken Stock: Keeps the meatloaf moist and adds extra flavor depth.
- 1 Tsp Tomato Paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that enhances the savory profile of the dish.
- 3 lbs. Ground Turkey: The star of the dish, providing a lean and mild base for the meatloaf.
- 1 Cup Bread Crumbs: Binds the mixture together while keeping the meatloaf tender.
- 2 Eggs (beaten): Helps bind the ingredients and adds structure to the meatloaf.
- ½ Cup Ketchup: Creates a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully on top of the meatloaf.
WHY IS TURKEY MEATLOAF A FAMILY FAVORITE?
- It’s a healthier comfort food: I love that this meatloaf is made with lean ground turkey, so I can feel good about serving it to my family without sacrificing the rich, satisfying flavors we all crave.
- It’s so easy to make: On busy weeknights, I can whip this up quickly with ingredients I usually have on hand. Plus, it makes enough for leftovers, which are just as delicious the next day!
- Everyone loves it: Even the pickiest eaters in my house can’t resist the savory glaze and tender texture. It’s one of the few dinners that gets zero complaints and lots of second helpings.
HOW IS PERFECTLY MOIST TURKEY MEATLOAF PREPARED?
Time needed: 1 hour and 15 minutes
- Prepare the Onion Mixture:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of dried thyme. Cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes, then stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
Add the Worcestershire sauce and chicken stock to the skillet. Stir to combine, then remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- Prepare the meatloaf mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, bread crumbs, beaten eggs, and the cooled onion mixture. Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined; overmixing can make the meatloaf dense. - Shape the meatloaf:
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf about 9 inches long and 4 inches wide if using a baking sheet. - Add the glaze:
Spread ½ cup of ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf. - Bake:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) on a meat thermometer. - Rest and serve:
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute for a perfectly moist result.
FAQ – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Add moisture-rich ingredients like sautéed onions, Worcestershire sauce, chicken stock, and eggs. Avoid overmixing the meat mixture, as this can make it dense and dry.
Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
It may lack enough binders like eggs or bread crumbs. Avoid overmixing, as this can also affect the structure.
Substitute bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs, crushed gluten-free crackers, or rolled oats.
Absolutely. Prepare the meatloaf mixture, shape it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
THE BEST TURKEY MEATLOAF RECIPE ADD-INS AND VARIATIONS:
- Switch up the bread crumbs: If you’re out of bread crumbs, try crushed crackers, oats, or almond flour. For a gluten-free option, just use gluten-free crackers or bread crumbs.
- Try a different glaze: Instead of ketchup, go for barbecue sauce, chili sauce, or even a honey-mustard mix for something new and tasty.
- Add some veggies: Grated carrots, zucchini, or chopped spinach are great for sneaking in extra nutrients and keeping the meatloaf moist.
- Change the meat: Not feeling turkey? Use ground chicken, lean beef, or even a mix of pork and beef for a different flavor.
- Boost the flavor: Throw in some minced garlic, smoked paprika, or fresh herbs like parsley or oregano to make it even better.
- Make it egg-free: No eggs? No problem! Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg you need—it works like a charm.
WHAT IS COMMONLY SERVED WITH A DELICIOUS TURKEY MEATLOAF?
Turkey meatloaf is one of those dishes that goes with just about anything. You can’t go wrong with classics like mashed potatoes, roasted green beans, or sweet corn on the side. If you’re keeping it lighter, a crisp salad or some steamed broccoli works perfectly, too. It’s great for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a cozy potluck. For special occasions, try pairing it with soft dinner rolls or a tangy cranberry sauce to give it a festive feel. As for drinks, a smooth Pinot Noir is perfect if you’re into wine, but iced tea or sparkling water with a slice of lemon keeps it nice and easy.
HOW CAN YOU STORE AND REHEAT LEFTOVER JUICY TURKEY MEATLOAF?
Leftover turkey meatloaf is super easy to save and enjoy later. Just pop it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to four days, or freeze slices for up to three months. When it’s time to reheat, the oven is great for warming it through evenly—just wrap it in foil and bake at 350°F. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too; cover the slice with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. For a little extra crunch, heat it in a skillet on the stovetop. No matter how you reheat it, just make sure it hits 165°F, and you’re good to go!
CAN LEFTOVER HOMESTYLE TURKEY MEATLOAF BE FROZEN FOR LATER?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey meatloaf freezes really well, making it perfect for meal prep or saving for later. Just let it cool completely, then wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll stay good in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in the oven, microwave, or stovetop until it’s hot and reaches 165°F. Freezing leftovers means you’ve got a quick, tasty meal whenever you need it!
LOOKING FOR MORE DINNER IDEAS? TRY THESE!
Zesty Lemon Chicken Piccata: This dish brings tender chicken cutlets to life with a bright, tangy lemon sauce, savory capers, and a touch of butter for richness. It’s an irresistible combination that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple to prepare.
Honey Garlic Soy Shrimp: These shrimp are tossed in a sweet, savory glaze that blends honey, garlic, and soy for an irresistible combination. The shrimp cook up juicy and tender with a perfectly caramelized coating that’s both satisfying and healthy.
Savory Oven-Baked Chicken Drumsticks: This recipe is the perfect combination of crispy skin, juicy meat, and bold, savory flavors that will have your family asking for seconds.
Simply the Best Turkey Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 Onion (chopped)
- 2 Tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 Tsp Salt
- ½ Tsp Black Ground Pepper
- ½ Tsp Thyme (dried)
- ¼ Cup Worcestershire Sauce
- ½ Cup Chicken Stock
- 1 Tsp Tomato Paste
- 3 lbs. Ground Turkey
- 1 Cup Bread Crumbs
- 2 Eggs (beaten)
- ½ Cup Ketchup
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees f. Line a baking sheet or loaf pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Sauté the onion: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of dried thyme. Cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes, then stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Deglaze the skillet: Add the Worcestershire sauce and chicken stock to the skillet. Stir to combine, then remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- Prepare the meatloaf mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, bread crumbs, beaten eggs, and the cooled onion mixture. Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined; overmixing can make the meatloaf dense.
- Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf about 9 inches long and 4 inches wide if using a baking sheet.
- Add the glaze: Spread ½ cup of ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) on a meat thermometer.
- Rest and serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute for a perfectly moist result.