Description
This Simply the Best Turkey Meatloaf Recipe is a wholesome, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners. Made with lean ground turkey, sautéed onions, and a rich blend of seasonings, topped with a tangy ketchup glaze, it’s a healthier twist on a classic comfort food that stays moist and delicious every time.
Ingredients
Scale
Main 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: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet or loaf pan with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup after baking.
- 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 the mixture until the onion is softened, which should take about 5 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional minute to develop its flavor.
- Deglaze the skillet: Pour in the Worcestershire sauce and chicken stock to the skillet. Stir well to combine, scraping any flavorful bits off the bottom. Remove from heat and allow this mixture to cool slightly before adding to the meat mixture.
- Prepare the meatloaf mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, bread crumbs, beaten eggs, and the cooled onion mixture. Mix gently using your hands or a spatula just until incorporated. Avoid overmixing to prevent a dense meatloaf.
- Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the combined mixture onto the prepared baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf approximately 9 inches long and 4 inches wide if using a baking sheet for even cooking.
- Add the glaze: Evenly spread ½ cup of ketchup over the top surface of the meatloaf to create a flavorful glaze that will caramelize during baking.
- Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), which is safe for poultry.
- Rest and serve: Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and tender meatloaf.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without overcooking.
- Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing ensures it holds together better and remains juicy.
- Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition and texture.
- You can replace ketchup topping with barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 1/8 of the meatloaf)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: turkey meatloaf, healthy meatloaf, baked turkey meatloaf, easy dinner recipe, lean meatloaf
