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Turkey Meatloaf Recipe: A Healthy Twist on a Classic Comfort Food


  • Author: rodrigo Stone
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 68 servings 1x

Description

A lighter twist on the classic comfort food, this turkey meatloaf is moist, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy family dinner or weekly meal prep. Packed with vegetables, herbs, and a sweet-tangy glaze, it’s a wholesome favorite that everyone will love.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds ground turkey (93% lean recommended)

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 1 medium carrot, grated

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • ¾ cup plain breadcrumbs

  • ½ cup milk (or unsweetened almond milk)

  • 2 large eggs

  • 2 tablespoons ketchup

  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

For the glaze:

  • ¼ cup ketchup

  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar


Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.

  • In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion, grated carrot, and minced garlic in a teaspoon of olive oil until softened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, 2 tablespoons ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix gently until evenly combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.

  • Shape the mixture into a loaf on the prepared baking sheet or transfer to a loaf pan.

  • In a small bowl, mix together the glaze ingredients: ¼ cup ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.

  • Bake for 45 minutes. Remove from oven, spread remaining glaze over the top, and return to bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

  • Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • For added moisture and flavor, don’t skip sautéing the vegetables before mixing.

  • If using ground turkey breast (99% lean), consider adding 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the mixture.

  • Gluten-free? Swap breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or rolled oats.

  • This recipe freezes well; store cooked slices in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes