This turkey meatloaf is a tasty and healthy dish that’s perfect for family meals. It’s packed with lean turkey and mixed with veggies for a nice twist!
Cooking this meatloaf is easy, and it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies. I usually whip up a big batch so we can enjoy leftovers all week. No complaints here! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the star of the show, leaner than beef. If you prefer, you can swap it for ground chicken or even a plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version!
Breadcrumbs: I usually stick with plain breadcrumbs for a classic taste, but panko works too if you want a crunchier texture. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Onion & Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic add so much flavor. If you’re short on fresh, dried onion flakes and garlic powder can be substitutes, although the flavor will be milder.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley and rosemary brighten up the meatloaf! If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, dried herbs work just fine. Just use about a third of the amount.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds moisture and flavor. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can be a tasty alternative to sprinkle in some cheesy notes.
How Do I Make My Meatloaf Not Fall Apart?
Keeping your meatloaf together can be tricky! Here’s how to get that solid structure:
- Make sure you bind the ingredients well. Mixing until just combined helps retain moisture while holding everything together.
- Adding breadcrumbs absorbs excess moisture and aids in binding. Don’t skip them!
- Let the meatloaf rest after baking to firm it up more before slicing.
Follow these steps, and you’ll serve up a delicious, sturdy turkey meatloaf that holds its shape beautifully.
Delicious Turkey Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
For the Topping:
- 1/3 cup ketchup or BBQ sauce (for topping)
- Olive oil or cooking spray (to grease the pan)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This turkey meatloaf recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and approximately 50-60 minutes of baking time. So overall, you’ll be ready to enjoy this delicious meal in about 1 hour and 15 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the meatloaf cooks evenly and thoroughly. If you’re using a loaf pan, lightly grease it with olive oil or cooking spray, or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, optional rosemary or thyme, grated Parmesan cheese (if using), egg, milk, salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Get your hands in there or use a spoon to mix everything together gently. Make sure not to overwork the meat so it stays tender!
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Once everything is combined, shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape. You can either place it directly on a lined baking sheet or into the greased loaf pan. Make sure it’s compact but not compressed.
4. Add the Topping:
Spread a nice even layer of ketchup or BBQ sauce over the top of your meatloaf. This adds great flavor and a beautiful glaze.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the meatloaf into your preheated oven. Let it bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can check this with a meat thermometer for best results!
6. Rest and Slice:
Once baked, take the meatloaf out of the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and makes slicing easier. Then, use a sharp knife to cut it into thick slices.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve warm! You can garnish with some fresh herbs if you’d like. This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with a side of mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or even a dollop of sour cream or dipping sauce.
Dig into this juicy, flavorful turkey meatloaf, and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute for turkey in meatloaf. Just keep in mind that it may have a slightly different flavor and texture, but it will still be delicious!
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, try using crushed crackers, rolled oats, or even cooked quinoa. Each option will provide a unique texture and flavor while still helping to bind the meatloaf.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating!
Can I Add Vegetables to the Meatloaf?
Definitely! Finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini can be added for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to chop them small so they blend well into the mixture.