Are you tired of dry, bland meatloaves that taste like cardboard? Get ready to revolutionize your dinner game with the most incredibly tender and juicy ground turkey meatloaf you've ever experienced! This isn't just another boring recipe - it's a game-changing dish that will have your family begging for seconds and asking for the secret recipe. Packed with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and healthier than traditional beef meatloaf, this recipe is about to become your new weeknight dinner superhero!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, milk, ketchup, egg, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly using clean hands or a wooden spoon until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to prevent the meatloaf from becoming tough. Mix just until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, gently pressing it down and shaping it into an even, compact loaf. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Optional: Spread an additional 2-3 tablespoons of ketchup on top of the meatloaf for a classic glazed finish.
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Carefully drain any excess liquid from the pan, then slice the meatloaf into 1-inch thick portions. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatloaf reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This prevents overcooking while guaranteeing food safety.
- Mixing Matters: When combining ingredients, use a light touch. Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense meatloaf. Mix just until ingredients are incorporated.
- Resting is Crucial: Let your meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
- Moisture Hack: The addition of milk and ketchup helps keep the ground turkey meatloaf tender and prevents it from drying out.
- Customize Your Glaze: While the recipe suggests ketchup, feel free to experiment with BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or a homemade glaze to add your personal touch.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This meatloaf can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before baking, making it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 184kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 17g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 73mg
