Let me share my straightforward Ground Turkey Meatloaf Recipe that’s become a go-to dinner at my place. I started making this when I wanted a leaner twist on the classic meatloaf without losing any of the comfort. Ground turkey keeps it lighter while still packing in the flavor. It’s perfect if you want something hearty but not heavy.
My family loves how it’s simple to throw together and bakes up moist every time. I’ll walk you through the ingredients and steps, along with tips I’ve learned along the way to help your meatloaf turn out just right.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make this Ground Turkey Meatloaf Recipe come alive:
- 1 ½ pounds ground turkey (preferably lean but not extra lean for moisture)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned, whichever you prefer)
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup milk (whole or 2% works best to keep it moist)
- ⅓ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Make sure your onion is finely diced so it blends well without big chunks. Beating the eggs before mixing is crucial to getting an even texture. If breadcrumbs aren’t clear on the package, choose plain to control the flavors. You can swap regular milk for unsweetened almond milk if you want a dairy-free option.
PrintGround Turkey Meatloaf Recipe That Delivers 7 Days of Comfort
Ground Turkey Meatloaf Recipe that brings 7 days of comfort with easy delicious meals your family will love every time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
A lean and flavorful Ground Turkey Meatloaf Recipe that’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a hearty yet light dinner option. With simple pantry staples and customizable ingredients, this moist and delicious meatloaf is a family favorite.
How to Prepare Instructions
Follow these steps for a flawless Ground Turkey Meatloaf Recipe:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to ensure easy removal later.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, diced onion, minced garlic, and milk. Use your hands or a spoon to mix gently. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Add ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until ingredients are just combined.
- Transfer the mixture into the loaf pan and press down evenly. Smooth the top with a spatula or your hand.
- Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top of the loaf for a nice glaze during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C) in the center.
- Once done, let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it firm up and juices redistribute, making it easier to cut.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if you like. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Don’t rush the resting step — it makes a difference! Also, if you find the top browns too quickly, tent foil loosely over the meatloaf halfway through baking.
Why You’ll Love This Ground Turkey Meatloaf Recipe
- Leaner than traditional beef meatloaf while still juicy and flavorful
- Quick and easy prep that fits into busy weeknights
- Uses simple pantry staples that you likely have on hand
- Customizable — swap herbs or add veggies for your taste
- Great for meal prep or leftover lunches that reheat well
This recipe isn’t just healthy; it feels like a family classic every time I make it. The blend of Worcestershire sauce and ketchup delivers just the right tang and sweetness. I love how it holds together nicely without turning dry or crumbly.
Tips for Success with Ground Turkey Meatloaf Recipe
- Don’t skip the breadcrumbs — they help bind and retain moisture.
- Use fresh or dried herbs according to your preference, but thyme and oregano bring the best warmth and earthiness.
- Be careful not to overwork the meat while mixing to keep a tender texture.
- Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing ensures clean cuts and better flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid undercooking or drying out the turkey.
I learned the hard way that rushing through the mix makes the meatloaf tough. Trust me, gentle hands make a difference.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice and warm pieces in the microwave or oven until heated through. For the oven, cover with foil and bake at 325°F (165°C) for 15-20 minutes.
You can also freeze cooked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Nutrition values can vary depending on the exact ingredients you choose and the brands you use. The figures provided here are estimates only and should be used as a general guideline. If you need precise nutritional information, consider using a nutrition calculator with your specific products.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey in this meatloaf recipe?
Yes, ground chicken is a good substitute, but it tends to be leaner and can dry out faster. You might want to add a bit more moisture or slightly reduce the cooking time.
How do I prevent my ground turkey meatloaf from being dry?
Include ingredients like breadcrumbs soaked in milk and don’t overmix the meat. Also, baking at 350°F and not exceeding the recommended cooking time helps keep it juicy.
Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf mixture?
Absolutely! Finely chopped or grated veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini can add moisture and flavor. Just make sure they’re chopped small enough to blend well.
Is it okay to make this meatloaf ahead and bake later?
Yes, you can assemble the meatloaf mixture, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bring it to room temperature for 30 minutes before putting it in the oven.
What sides pair well with ground turkey meatloaf?
Mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, roasted veggies, or a crisp salad complement the flavors nicely and round out the meal.
