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The BEST Turkey Meatloaf


  • Author: anastasia-rice
  • Total Time: 70 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Paleo, Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free breadcrumbs)

Description

A cozy weeknight turkey meatloaf that’s lighter yet satisfying, topped with a delicious tangy glaze.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 pounds ground turkey, 93 percent lean
  • 2 slices cooked turkey bacon, chopped (optional)
  • 3/4 cup plain breadcrumbs or panko
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1/3 cup whole milk or unsweetened plain plant milk
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 medium carrot, grated
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup for the meat
  • 1/2 cup ketchup for the glaze
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease a loaf pan.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, add the chopped onion and grated carrot, and sauté until softened, about 4 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, cooled vegetable mixture, turkey bacon (if using), breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
  5. Shape the mixture into a loaf on the prepared baking sheet or press into the loaf pan.
  6. Mix 1/2 cup ketchup with tomato paste and brush half over the meatloaf.
  7. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  8. Remove the meatloaf, brush with remaining glaze, and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
  9. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Notes

For a firmer loaf, use panko breadcrumbs; for a softer loaf, use fine breadcrumbs. Make ahead by mixing ingredients and refrigerating for up to 24 hours.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: turkey meatloaf, healthy meatloaf, comfort food, family dinner, easy weeknight dinner