Turkey meatloaf is a lighter, healthier alternative to the traditional beef meatloaf, offering a succulent and flavorful dish with fewer calories and less fat. This version incorporates a mix of savory seasonings, breadcrumbs, and a touch of ketchup or BBQ sauce for a moist, tender loaf that doesn’t skimp on flavor. It’s perfect for a comforting family dinner and can easily be adapted with different spices or add-ins according to your taste.
Appliances and Special Utensils Needed:
- Oven
- Large mixing bowl
- Loaf pan (typically 9×5 inches)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Aluminum foil (optional, for easier cleanup)
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ lbs ground turkey (93% lean)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ cup ketchup, plus more for topping
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: ½ cup grated carrots or bell peppers for added moisture and flavor
Instructions:
-
Preheat the Oven and Prepare Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
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Mix Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, and grated carrots or bell peppers if using.
- Add the egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the bowl.
- Mix all the ingredients until well combined, but be careful not to overmix as this can make the meatloaf tough.
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Shape and Add to Pan:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, ensuring it is even but not packing it too tightly.
- Spread a thin layer of ketchup or BBQ sauce over the top if desired.
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Bake:
- Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for about 55-65 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Rest and Serve:
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute.
- Slice and serve warm. It pairs beautifully with sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad.
Tips:
- Adding a bit of grated carrot or finely chopped bell peppers can introduce extra moisture and flavor to the meatloaf, making it even more delicious and tender.
- For a crispier top, broil the meatloaf for the last few minutes of cooking, watching closely to prevent burning.
This turkey meatloaf recipe is not only wholesome but also versatile, making it a wonderful addition to your weekly meal rotation. Enjoy your cooking!