Easy Turkey Meatloaf Recipe
Introduction
This easy turkey meatloaf is a delicious and healthier twist on a classic comfort food. Packed with simple ingredients and a flavorful glaze, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground turkey
- 1/2 cup old fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated onion
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 oz tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400º F. Line a baking tray with foil.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, mix together the ground turkey, oats, breadcrumbs, grated onion, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until well blended.
- Step 3: Pour the meat mixture onto the prepared baking tray and shape it into a loaf.
- Step 4: In a small bowl, combine the tomato sauce, brown sugar, and yellow mustard to make the glaze. Pour the glaze over the meatloaf, ensuring the entire surface is coated.
- Step 5: Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160º F.
- Step 6: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra moisture, add 1/4 cup of milk or unsweetened applesauce to the meat mixture.
- Replace Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like thyme and parsley for a different flavor profile.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Try topping the meatloaf with sliced mushrooms or sautéed onions before baking for added texture.
Storage
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also freeze cooked meatloaf for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken can be used as a substitute and will work similarly in this recipe, though the flavor may be slightly milder.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160º F to ensure it is safely cooked through.
PrintEasy Turkey Meatloaf Recipe
This easy turkey meatloaf recipe is a simple, healthy twist on the classic comfort food favorite. Ground turkey is combined with oats, breadcrumbs, and seasonings to create a moist, flavorful loaf topped with a tangy tomato glaze. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it’s baked to juicy perfection and ready in just over an hour.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Meatloaf
- 2 pounds ground turkey
- 1/2 cup old fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated onion
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Glaze
- 8 oz tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400º F (204º C) and line a baking tray with foil for easy cleanup.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, oats, breadcrumbs, grated onion, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended.
- Form the Loaf: Transfer the meat mixture onto the prepared baking tray and shape it into a loaf form, ensuring it’s compact but not too dense.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a separate bowl, mix together the tomato sauce, brown sugar, and yellow mustard. Pour this glaze evenly over the entire surface of the meatloaf, coating it completely.
- Bake: Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160º F (71º C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meatloaf moist. Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure the meatloaf reaches a safe internal temperature without overcooking.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or additional oats.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Try adding diced bell peppers or shredded carrots to the meat mixture for extra vegetables.
- Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing is crucial to maintain moisture and texture.
Keywords: turkey meatloaf, healthy meatloaf, easy dinner, baked meatloaf, ground turkey recipe
