Turkey Meatloaf Recipe | Easy, Healthy, and Delicious Homemade Meatloaf
Introduction
Turkey meatloaf feels like a gentle hug for the soul. Imagine coming home, opening the oven door, and breathing in the aroma of spices mingled with roasted turkey. That smell sits in your memory forever. I love turkey meatloaf for how it balances comfort food warmth with wholesome nutrition. Lean turkey gives richness without heaviness. Fresh vegetables can soften texture and bring brightness. A touch of herbs gives depth. If you are looking for a recipe that feels nourishing but also cozy and satisfying, turkey meatloaf is perfect. Writing about it gives me joy. The blend of textures and flavors, the ease, the way leftovers transform into new meals all make turkey meatloaf a keeper in any kitchen.
Ingredients Needed
Below is a clear list of what you need. Calories are approximate and per amount used, to help you plan.
| Ingredient | Amount | Calories (approximate) |
|---|---|---|
| Ground turkey | 1 pound | 640 |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 medium (100 grams) | 40 |
| Carrot, grated | 1 medium (60 grams) | 25 |
| Celery stalk, finely chopped | 1 stalk (40 grams) | 6 |
| Bread crumbs | 1 half cup (60 grams) | 220 |
| Egg | 1 large (50 grams) | 70 |
| Milk | 1 quarter cup (60 ml) | 30 |
| ketchup | two tablespoons (30 ml) | 40 |
| Worcestershire sauce | one tablespoon (15 ml) | 15 |
| Garlic clove, minced | 1 clove (5 grams) | 5 |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | two tablespoons (8 grams) | 2 |
| Salt | to taste | 0 |
| Black pepper | to taste | 0 |
Step by Step Cooking Instructions
Start by preheating your oven. Set it to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While it warms you can prepare your mix. In a large bowl combine ground turkey, onion, carrot, celery, bread crumbs, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, parsley, salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to gently but thoroughly mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Avoid over mixing. Make a loaf shape by folding edges up and pressing gently. Place the shaped mixture in a lightly greased loaf pan or on a lined baking tray.
Slide it into the oven. Bake for about sixty minutes. You want the center to reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safety. While it cooks you can clean up or prepare a side. Once done remove the meatloaf and let rest ten minutes. Resting lets juices redistribute. Slice carefully into thick pieces. Serve right away.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
You can make small changes to suit your preferences. Swap ground turkey for ground chicken for a slightly different flavor. Add finely chopped bell pepper if you want more color. Use oats instead of bread crumbs for a gluten free option. Add a pinch of smoked paprika to give warm savory notes. Stir in grated zucchini for added moisture and nutrition. Replace milk with unsweetened plant based milk if you prefer. For a richer glaze brush a mix of ketchup and honey on top toward the end of baking. Toss in minced fresh herbs such as thyme or oregano for aromatic lift. Spice lovers can fold in chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Customize freely to match your kitchen mood.
Nutritional Information
When you use the ingredients listed choices yield a turkey meatloaf that is nutrient rich and lower in fat than traditional versions with beef. Per serving based on about six slices and one pound total, you get roughly:
This turkey meatloaf makes a nice balance of protein and vegetables. It supports healthy eating while still feeling indulgent.
Serving Suggestions
Turkey meatloaf is versatile. Serve it with mashed potatoes or creamy cauliflower mash. A side of steamed green beans or roasted broccoli brings color and crunch. Try a simple salad of mixed greens tossed with olive oil and lemon juice for freshness. If you feel cozy try warm sweet potato wedges. For something lighter serve meatloaf over quinoa with a sprinkle of chopped nuts. Leftovers turn into great sandwiches. Layer slices on whole wheat bread with crisp lettuce and mustard. Use meatloaf as a filling for wraps with crunchy slaw and yogurt sauce. It also pairs nicely with a spoon of gravy or even cranberry sauce for a touch of sweetness.
Turkey Meatloaf Recipe | Easy, Healthy, and Delicious Homemade Meatloaf
Course: Blog6
servings15
minutes1
hour180
kcalIngredients
1 pound ground turkey
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 medium carrot, grated
1 celery stalk, finely chopped
½ cup bread crumbs
1 large egg
¼ cup milk
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 garlic clove, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, onion, carrot, celery, bread crumbs, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan or on a lined baking tray.
- Bake for 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm with your favorit
Recipe Video
Notes
- For extra moisture, add grated zucchini or substitute bread crumbs with oats. Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked meatloaf. Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and freeze nicely for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of ground turkey works best
Choose ground turkey with a bit of fat if you want more moist texture. Lean turkey works too but may need added moisture like a bit of broth or extra vegetables.
Can I make meatloaf ahead of time
Yes you can fully assemble and refrigerate overnight. Let sit in fridge and bake next day. Just add a few extra minutes to bake time if starting cold.
Can I freeze turkey meatloaf
Absolutely. Freeze cooked slices in portions. Wrap tight and store up to three months. Reheat in oven or microwave.
How do I know when it is done
Use a meat thermometer. The center needs to read 165 Fahrenheit. If you do not have one check that juices run clear and meat is no longer pink inside.
Can I make meatloaf without eggs
Use a flax egg (one tablespoon ground flaxseed plus three tablespoons water) or use mashed potato or extra bread crumbs for binding.
Conclusion
Cooking a turkey meatloaf feels so rewarding. The scent as it bakes fills your home with warmth. Every slice holds gentle flavors. It brings comfort without being heavy. I savor how easy it is to customize.
