This ground turkey meatloaf is packed with lean protein, it's moist, tender, and bursting with delicious flavor. Enjoy a healthier version without compromising on taste!
Healthy Meatloaf Recipe
We are huge fans of meatloaf, as you can tell from our collection of meatloaf recipes! It's easy to make, uses common ingredients, and our whole family enjoys it. We've experimented with stovetop, smoked, and even air fryer meatloaf. Today, we're sharing our flavorful turkey meatloaf recipe with you. It's a healthier option packed with protein, but still absolutely delicious!
You'll Need
- Ground Turkey: You can use either regular ground turkey or ground turkey breast. Both options work well and provide a lean and flavorful base for the meatloaf.
- Bread Crumbs: Use plain or panko bread crumbs, or substitute with crushed stuffing mix, crackers, or croutons for added texture and flavor.
- Onion Powder: If you prefer, you can use a small minced onion instead of onion powder for a fresh onion flavor.
- Milk: Any type of milk, such as whole milk or low-fat milk, will work in this recipe.
- Eggs: Use large eggs for the best binding and moisture.
- Soy Sauce: Adds a savory flavor to the meatloaf. Use regular or low-sodium soy sauce.
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory and slightly tangy flavor. Look for a gluten-free version if you have dietary restrictions. If you prefer to avoid Worcestershire sauce, you can omit it or substitute with tamari for a similar umami flavor.
- Seasoned Pepper: Lawry's seasoned pepper or any other seasoned pepper blend can be used. Adjust the amount according to your taste.
- Black pepper
- Ketchup: Regular tomato ketchup works well in the recipe.
- Brown Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: You can substitute with white vinegar if needed.
- Mustard: Yellow or Dijon mustard can be used for a tangy kick.
How to Make Turkey Meatloaf
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with heavy-duty aluminum foil or non-stick parchment paper. Grease the foil with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
To make the glaze, simply whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and Dijon mustard in a medium-sized bowl. Once combined, set the mixture aside for later use.
To make the meatloaf, start by combining all the ingredients in a large bowl. Mix them together until just combined. Divide the meatloaf mixture into two equal portions and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Shape each portion into a long loaf, about 1½ inches high, 6 inches long, and 4 inches wide. Remember to leave a shallow hollow in the center of each loaf for the sauce. Spread the glaze evenly over the meatloaves, allowing it to drip down the sides a bit.
Bake the meatloaves for about 45 minutes, or until they are fully cooked. Once done, remove from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes.
What Temperature should Meatloaf be Cooked to?
Bake the meatloaf in a conventional oven at 350 degrees F. However, if you're looking for a faster cooking time, you can increase the temperature to 400 degrees F. To ensure it's fully cooked, use an instant-read thermometer and look for an internal temperature of 160 degrees F or higher. That's when you'll know it's ready to be enjoyed.
Meatloaf Tips and Variations
- Don't overmix the meat. Just like making meatballs, if you work the meat too much, it will become dense. Gently mix all the ingredients until just combined.
- Want it faster? Divide the mixture into four smaller loaves and cook for about 25 to 30 minutes. You can also make it in muffin tins.
- Add some heat! Spice things up by adding chipotle or sriracha to the ketchup.
- Prefer beef? Swap the turkey for lean beef, around 85% lean.
- Make it low-carb or grain-free. Use almond meal instead of breadcrumbs in equal amounts.
- Try oats instead. Swap breadcrumbs for equal amounts of rolled oats.
- Try BBQ sauce. Replace the ketchup glaze with BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor.
- Want it juicier? Opt for 93% lean turkey for a juicier meatloaf.
- Make it for meal prep! Double the recipe, make four loaves, and freeze two for later.
- Leftovers are perfect for sandwiches. Refrigerate for 3 to 4 days.
Make Ahead Meatloaf
Prepare the meatloaf mixture according to the recipe. Shape it into meatloaves and place them on a baking sheet. Instead of baking immediately, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
Place in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
When you're ready to cook them, remove the plastic wrap or foil.
Preheat and bake the meatloaves according to the recipe's instructions.
What to Serve With Meatloaf
Caramelized Shallot Mashed Potatoes: This dish pairs well with turkey meatloaf, providing a creamy and comforting complement.
Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels Sprouts, or Green Beans bring out their natural flavors and add a nice touch of color to your plate.
Steamed vegetables: Steamed Broccoli, cauliflower, or asparagus offer a lighter and healthier side option.
Salad: A fresh green salad like Cucumber and Tomato Salad can balance the richness of the meatloaf.
Grains: Consider serving the meatloaf with quinoa, rice, or couscous for a hearty and filling side dish.
Can You Freeze Meatloaf?
Absolutely! We often make four loaves - two for dinner and two for later. It doesn't take much more time to make four at once. To freeze, let the meatloaf cool, then slice it. Place the slices in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight and then heat them in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Eggs and breadcrumbs help hold meatloaf together. If your turkey meatloaf is falling apart, you probably need more of these binding ingredients. Begin with 1 ⅓ cups of breadcrumbs and add more if necessary. You want the meatloaf mixture to be moist, but not too wet.
Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or certified gluten-free oats instead of regular breadcrumbs. This small swap will ensure that your meatloaf is gluten-free and safe for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions.
Using a meat thermometer is the best way to know when your meatloaf is fully cooked. For turkey meatloaf, it should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure it is done and safe to eat.
More Meatloaf Recipes
Mexican Taco Meatloaf-Spice up your dinner with this flavorful meatloaf recipe. Packed with delicious taco flavors, it's a tasty twist on a classic dish.
Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe-With the delicious flavors of stuffing mixed in, it's a comforting and flavorful twist on traditional meatloaf.
Air Fryer Meatloaf-It's tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. A must-try for meatloaf lovers!
Lipton Onion Soup Meatloaf-The onion soup mix adds a delicious savory flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Buffalo Chicken Meatloaf-Packed with bold flavors, it's a perfect blend of tangy buffalo sauce and juicy chicken. A must-try for buffalo chicken fans!
Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf Recipe-It combines the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak with the comfort of a meatloaf. Cheesy, savory, and delicious!
Salisbury Steak Meatloaf Recipe-It's a flavorful twist on traditional meatloaf, inspired by the classic Salisbury steak. Juicy and packed with rich flavors.
Italian Meatloaf with Ricotta Cheese-It will transport your taste buds to Italy. Buon appetito!
Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf-Made with ground chicken and topped with melted cheese, it's a delicious twist on traditional meatloaf that will leave you wanting more.
Southern Meatloaf Recipe-Experience the heartwarming flavors of the South with this delicious Southern Meatloaf recipe.
If you make this Best Turkey Meatloaf Recipe be sure to leave a comment or give this recipe a rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐! I will be happy to hear from you!
Turkey Meatloaf
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 2 pounds ground turkey
- 1 ⅓ cups breadcrumbs or stuffing mix, crushed crackers, croutons
- 2 tablespoons onion powder or 1 small onion, minced
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon seasoned pepper such as Lawry's
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper or to taste
For the glaze:
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon yellow or Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with heavy-duty aluminum foil or non-stick parchment paper. Grease the foil with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray.
- To make the glaze, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard in a medium bowl. Set the mixture aside for later use.
- Make the Meatloaf: In a large bowl, mix together all the ingredients for the meatloaf until just combined. Divide the meat mixture into two equal portions and place them onto the prepared baking sheet. Shape each portion into a long loaf, approximately 1½ inches high, 6 inches long, and 4 inches wide. Leave a shallow hollow in the center of each loaf for the sauce. Spread the sauce evenly over the meatloaves, allowing it to drip down the sides a bit.
- Bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until they are thoroughly cooked. Remove any excess fat from the sides of the meatloaves and allow to rest for 10 minutes.
- Slice the meatloaves and garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
All rights reserved. CHEF JAR. All images and content are copyright protected. PLEASE do not use my images without my permission. If you want to share this recipe, PLEASE provide a link back to this post.
Emily says
This turkey meatloaf was so moist and delicious! I followed the recipe exactly and served it with mashed potatoes—total comfort food. My husband already requested it again!
Tatiana says
ay, Emily! Love that it’s already a repeat request in your house. Thanks for sharing!