turkey meatloaf recipe

Looking for a lighter take on a classic comfort food? This turkey meatloaf recipe is a healthy, flavorful twist on traditional meatloaf that doesn’t skimp on taste. Made with lean ground turkey, fresh herbs, and a tangy glaze, it’s moist, satisfying, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. If you think turkey meatloaf is dry or bland, this recipe will change your mind. With simple pantry ingredients and easy prep, it’s a go-to favorite for anyone wanting a wholesome, hearty dinner the whole family will love. Let’s make a turkey meatloaf that’s anything but boring!

Recipe Card

1 ¼ lbs lean ground turkey
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg
½ cup plain breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)
¼ cup milk

2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
¾ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Step By Step Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.

Sauté Aromatics: In a small skillet, sauté chopped onion and garlic over medium heat until soft (about 3–4 minutes). Let cool slightly.

Mix the Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, sautéed onions and garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined.

Shape the Loaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape on the baking sheet, or press into a loaf pan.

Add the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Spread evenly over the top of the loaf.

Bake:
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Rest & Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

How to Serve?

With mashed potatoes and green beans
Over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
Sliced into sandwiches with a side of pickles
With a fresh side salad and roasted sweet potatoes
As leftovers with eggs for a hearty breakfast

Tips & Variations

Use ground turkey not too lean (at least 93%) for juicier results.

Add ¼ cup shredded carrot or zucchini for extra moisture and veggies.

Swap ketchup glaze for BBQ sauce or marinara for a flavor twist.

Make mini loaves in a muffin tin for faster cooking and portion control.

Meal prep friendly: freezes and reheats beautifully!

Nutrition

Calories: 220 kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 23g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 470mg

Recipe Card

Juicy & Healthy Turkey Meatloaf Recipe You’ll Want on Repeat

Recipe by Rachael rayCourse: Meatloaf Recipes

Servings

6 Slice

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

220

kcal

This easy, healthy turkey meatloaf is juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a family-friendly weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

1 ¼ lbs lean ground turkey
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg
½ cup plain breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)
¼ cup milk
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
¾ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Directions

Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
Sauté Aromatics:
In a small skillet, sauté chopped onion and garlic over medium heat until soft (about 3–4 minutes). Let cool slightly.
Mix the Meatloaf:
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, sautéed onions and garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined.
Shape the Loaf:
Form the mixture into a loaf shape on the baking sheet, or press into a loaf pan.
Add the Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Spread evenly over the top of the loaf.
Bake:
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Rest & Serve:
Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

Recipe Video

Notes

Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
Let it rest after baking to help it hold its shape.
Double the glaze if you love it extra saucy.
Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
Great for make-ahead meals and leftovers!

FAQs

Ground chicken works well, though the texture may be slightly softer.

Using milk, eggs, sautéed onions, and not overbaking helps lock in moisture.

Absolutely—just use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is GF.

Conclusion

This flavorful turkey meatloaf recipe is healthy comfort food done right. With a tender interior and a sweet-savory glaze, it’s easy enough for a weeknight and tasty enough for leftovers you’ll look forward to.