Easy Ground Turkey Meatloaf Recipe – Healthy & Delicious Dinner Idea!

Table of Contents: Ground Turkey Meatloaf

The Perfect Comfort Food: Juicy, Flavorful, and Family-Friendly!

Looking for a healthy yet delicious dinner idea that the whole family will love? This Easy Ground Turkey Meatloaf is the answer! Moist, packed with flavor, and incredibly simple to make, this dish proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be heavy or complicated.

Did you know that meatloaf dates back to ancient Rome? But don’t worry—this modern twist is far from bland! With lean ground turkey, savory seasonings, and a sweet and tangy glaze, this meatloaf is a guilt-free upgrade from the classic beef version.

Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even a cozy Sunday dinner, this recipe is ready in under an hour and delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Plus, it’s kid-approved—so no more dinner table battles!

If you loved my Chicken Parmesan Pasta, you’ll adore this ground turkey meatloaf. Both dishes are simple, satisfying, and packed with protein, but this one swaps breadcrumbs for oats and keeps things lean without sacrificing taste.

Ready to dig in? Let’s get cooking!


What is Ground Turkey Meatloaf?

Is it a loaf of bread? A cake? Nope—it’s a juicy, savory masterpiece baked to perfection! Ground turkey meatloaf is a healthier twist on the traditional beef version, using lean turkey for a lighter but equally delicious meal.

Ever wondered why it’s called “meatloaf”? Back in the day, cooks would shape leftover meat into a loaf (like bread) to stretch meals further. Genius, right? And let’s be honest—“the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach”, and this dish will win over even the pickiest eaters!

With a sweet and tangy glaze on top and a tender, moist interior, this recipe proves that turkey doesn’t have to be dry or boring. So why not give it a try tonight? Your taste buds (and your waistline) will thank you!


Why You’ll Love This Ground Turkey Meatloaf

1. Juicy, Flavorful, and Never Dry!

Forget dry, bland turkey—this meatloaf stays incredibly moist thanks to a mix of lean ground turkey, grated veggies, and a touch of olive oil. The blend of herbs, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce gives it a rich, savory depth that’s downright addictive.

2. Budget-Friendly & Meal-Prep Ready

Eating healthy doesn’t have to break the bank! Ground turkey is affordable, and this recipe makes 6-8 servings, meaning leftovers for days (if it lasts that long!). Plus, it freezes beautifully—perfect for meal prep.

3. The Perfect Glaze Makes It Irresistible

A sweet and tangy ketchup-brown sugar glaze caramelizes on top, adding a sticky, finger-licking finish. If you love the glaze on my Hot Honey Chicken Tenders, you’ll go crazy for this one!

Ready to make the best turkey meatloaf ever? Let’s do this!


How to Make Ground Turkey Meatloaf

Ground Turkey Meatloaf
Ground Turkey Meatloaf

Quick Overview

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6-8

This recipe is easy, foolproof, and packed with flavor—no fancy skills required!

Key Ingredients

1.5 lbs lean ground turkey (93% lean for best texture)
1 cup rolled oats (or breadcrumbs)
1 small onion, grated (for moisture)
1 egg (binder)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp dried thyme
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt & pepper to taste

For the Glaze:

½ cup ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp apple cider vinegar

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Mix the meatloaf base. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, oats, grated onion, egg, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix gently—don’t overwork it!
3. Shape & place in pan. Press the mixture into the loaf pan, smoothing the top.
4. Make the glaze. Whisk ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar in a small bowl. Spread half over the meatloaf before baking.
5. Bake for 45-50 mins. After 30 mins, add the remaining glaze. Cook until the internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Rest before slicing. Let it sit for 10 mins—this keeps it juicy!


What to Serve With Ground Turkey Meatloaf

This meatloaf pairs perfectly with classic comfort sides! Try garlic mashed potatoes for creamy goodness, roasted green beans for a crisp contrast, or a fresh garden salad to keep things light.

For a full meal, serve it with my Creamy Mac and Cheese—because who can resist that combo?


Top Tips for Perfecting Ground Turkey Meatloaf

Don’t overmix! Gently combine ingredients to keep the texture tender.
Use a meat thermometer—165°F ensures it’s fully cooked but not dry.
Let it rest before slicing to lock in juices.
Swap oats for breadcrumbs if you prefer a classic texture.


Storing and Reheating Tips

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
Freezer: Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 mins or microwave until heated through.

Ground Turkey Meatloaf
Ground Turkey Meatloaf

People Also Ask: Ground Turkey Meatloaf

How can I make my turkey meatloaf moist and flavorful?

The secret? Grated veggies (like onion or zucchini), a bit of olive oil, and Worcestershire sauce keep it juicy. Don’t skip the glaze—it adds extra flavor!

What is a good glaze for turkey meatloaf?

A ketchup-brown sugar mix is classic, but try barbecue sauce or honey mustard for a twist!

What temperature should turkey meatloaf be cooked to?

Always cook to 165°F (74°C) for safe, juicy results.

Can I make turkey meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake as directed—easy meal prep!


Final Thoughts

This Easy Ground Turkey Meatloaf is a healthy, delicious, and foolproof dinner winner. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a crowd, it’s a must-try recipe that’ll become a family favorite.

Tag me on social when you make it—I’d love to see your masterpiece! 🍽️

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Ground Turkey Meatloaf

Easy Ground Turkey Meatloaf Recipe


  • Author: Crystal
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

A lighter twist on classic meatloaf made with ground turkey, breadcrumbs, seasonings, and a tangy ketchup glaze.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 lbs ground turkey
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (divided)
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan.
  2. In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let soak 2 minutes.
  3. Add ground turkey, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and half the ketchup. Mix until just combined.
  4. Shape into a loaf and place in the prepared pan.
  5. Mix remaining ketchup with brown sugar and spread evenly on top.
  6. Bake uncovered for 50-60 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Rest 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For extra moisture, mix in 1/2 cup grated zucchini or carrots.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 540mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: ground turkey meatloaf, healthy meatloaf, baked turkey loaf

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