Turkey Meatloaf Recipe
This juicy and flavorful turkey meatloaf is a lighter twist on the classic comfort food. Made with lean ground turkey, aromatic spices, and a tangy ketchup glaze, it’s moist, satisfying, and perfect for family dinners. Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or your favorite side dish for a hearty meal.

Ingredients List
– 1 ½ pounds ground turkey
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large egg
– ¼ cup milk
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the glaze:
– ⅓ cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined—do not overmix.
Step 3: Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet or press into a loaf pan.
Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard for the glaze. Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
Step 5: Bake for 45 minutes. Remove from oven, spread remaining glaze, and bake for another 15 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cook Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings
Serves 6–8
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
Calories: 280
Carbs: 14g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze slices or whole loaf for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in fridge and reheat in the oven.
Pairings/Suggestions
Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted carrots. A side of mac and cheese or a fresh salad also pairs well.
Seasonal Relevance
Ideal for fall and winter dinners, holiday gatherings, or weekly meal prep. Comforting and crowd-pleasing any time of year.
Conclusion
Turkey meatloaf is a delicious, healthier alternative to traditional beef meatloaf. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and loved by both kids and adults. A perfect family meal that works great for leftovers too!
Turkey Meatloaf Recipe
6–8
servings15
minutes1
hour280
kcalThis turkey meatloaf is tender, flavorful, and topped with a tangy glaze. It’s a healthy and satisfying dinner the whole family will love — simple, wholesome, and delicious!
Ingredients
– 1 ½ pounds ground turkey
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large egg
– ¼ cup milk
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the glaze:
– ⅓ cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined—do not overmix.
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet or press into a loaf pan.
- In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard for the glaze. Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake for 45 minutes. Remove from oven, spread remaining glaze, and bake for another 15 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Moist and flavorful turkey meatloaf with a sweet ketchup glaze.
Made with lean ground turkey and pantry staples.
Perfect for family dinners or meal prep with leftovers that reheat well.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken can be substituted, though it may be slightly drier—add a splash of broth if needed.
Q2: How can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or rolled oats instead of regular breadcrumbs.
Q3: Can I prep this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and shape the loaf, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
