Turkey Meatloaf Recipe | Juicy and Flavorful Classic Dinner

Turkey Meatloaf Recipe That’s Perfectly Baked and Seasoned

A dependable Turkey Meatloaf recipe that focuses on moisture and seasoning. Ground turkey can dry out faster than beef, so small adjustments can make a big difference. Added ingredients like grated onion, breadcrumbs, and a bit of milk keep the loaf tender, while a light glaze on top gives balanced flavor without being too sweet.

This recipe is for anyone who wants a straightforward, flavorful dinner that’s easy to prepare and reheats well with leftovers.

Difficulty: Easy

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 55 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 260

Ingredients Method Video Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 ½ lbs ground turkey 93% lean is recommended.
• 1 small onion grated or finely minced
• 2 garlic cloves minced
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ⅓ cup of milk
• 1 egg lightly beaten
• 2 tbsp ketchup plus more for glaze
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp dried thyme optional

For the glaze:

• ¼ cup ketchup
• 1 TBSP brown sugar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

Method

 

1. Preheat the oven. Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease or line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix the glaze. Combine the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small bowl. Set aside.
3. Combine ingredients. In a large bowl, mix turkey, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme.
4. Shape into a loaf. Form this mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan.
5. Add the glaze. Spread half of the glaze over the top before baking.
6. Bake. Bake for 45 minutes. Remove, brush with remaining glaze, and bake for another 10–15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Rest and slice. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing to keep the juices in.

Video

Notes

Lean turkey: Use 93% lean for the best texture; 99% lean tends to dry out.

Grated onions: Add moisture and distribute flavor evenly.

Seasoning: Don’t skip the Worcestershire sauce. It deepens the flavor.

Glaze tip: A thin layer gives flavor without making the loaf soggy.

Tips & Tricks

• Make ahead: Assemble the raw loaf, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Even cooking: Flatten the top slightly to help it cook uniformly.
• Flavor options: Add chopped spinach, shredded carrots, or a bit of BBQ sauce for variation.
• Storage: Keeps for 3-4 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.
• Reheating: Warm slices in the oven with a splash of broth for moisture.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic dinner: Served with mashed potatoes and green beans.
• Healthy option: Pair with roasted vegetables or a light salad.
• Sandwich: Use leftovers for turkey meatloaf sandwiches with lettuce and Dijon.
• Comfort meal: Serve with gravy or a side of mac and cheese.
• Meal prep: Great for portioned lunches during the week.

Nutrition (per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: ~260
• Protein: 27 g
• Carbs: 10 g
• Fat: 12 g
• Fiber: 1 g