If you’re searching for a weeknight dinner solution that’s both wholesome and thoroughly satisfying, look no further than Best Easy Mini Meatloaf with Ground Turkey. These adorable, protein-packed mini meatloaves come together in a snap, brimming with savory flavors and topped with a glossy ketchup glaze that’s irresistible. They’re juicy thanks to ground turkey and a splash of milk, aromatic with onions and garlic, and utterly comforting—no fuss, just fun and fuss-free baking!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s keep it simple with ingredients you likely already have on hand, each playing a special role in flavor and texture. Even the garnishes add a pop of freshness to make your Best Easy Mini Meatloaf with Ground Turkey shine every time.
- Ground turkey: Lean, protein-rich, and keeps these mini meatloaves light yet satisfying.
- Breadcrumbs: Act as a tender binder, making each bite moist and cohesive.
- Milk: Adds extra juiciness and helps soften the breadcrumbs for a tender meatloaf.
- Egg: Essential for binding everything together so your mini meatloaves hold their adorable shape.
- Onion: A burst of sweet, subtle flavor that melts right into the turkey as it bakes.
- Garlic: Provides a savory aromatic boost in every mouthful.
- Ketchup: Brings tang and sweetness, plus makes a shiny, classic topping.
- Worcestershire sauce: Supplies rich umami depth and complexity.
- Italian seasoning: A hint of herbal freshness to balance the savory elements.
- Salt: Enhances all the other flavors—never skip it!
- Black pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle, warming spice.
- Chopped parsley (optional): For a fresh and colorful garnish just before serving.
How to Make Best Easy Mini Meatloaf with Ground Turkey
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), which is the ideal temperature for perfectly cooked, juicy mini meatloaves. Grab your trusty muffin tin and lightly grease it—this ensures the meatloaves come out easily and with those beautifully crisped up edges everyone loves.
Step 2: Mix Up the Meatloaf Base
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, finely diced onion, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix the ingredients just until they’re blended—overmixing can make the meatloaf dense, so use a gentle hand. The mixture should look cohesive but still airy.
Step 3: Fill the Muffin Tin
Spoon the turkey mixture evenly into 8 to 10 muffin cups, gently pressing just enough to fill each one but not packing them down tightly. This gives each Best Easy Mini Meatloaf with Ground Turkey that classic, tender shape and easy portioning—perfect for kids, meal prep, or easy serving at the table.
Step 4: Top with Ketchup
Add a lovely shine and familiar flavor by topping each mini meatloaf with a spoonful of ketchup. This step not only brings color but also roasts into a slightly sticky glaze that absolutely makes these shine.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop the muffin tray into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures the turkey is cooked through while staying perfectly juicy and moist. Let your Best Easy Mini Meatloaf with Ground Turkey rest for 5 minutes in the tin—they’ll firm up and release more easily.
Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy!
Carefully remove the mini meatloaves from the muffin tin and sprinkle with chopped parsley, if you like a bit of color and freshness. Ta-da—dinner is ready to impress!
How to Serve Best Easy Mini Meatloaf with Ground Turkey
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or even thinly sliced scallions over your Best Easy Mini Meatloaf with Ground Turkey. The bright green accents add a burst of freshness and make each mini loaf look extra inviting on the plate.
Side Dishes
These mini meatloaves beg for classic comfort sides! Creamy mashed potatoes, crisp green beans, or a simple side salad pair beautifully. For busy weeknights, roast up some veggies or serve with rice—whatever works for you and your family.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn these mini marvels into a party platter on a big board, or tuck one into a small sandwich bun with extra ketchup and lettuce for a quick meatloaf slider. Add a toothpick flag for kids, or serve with a ramekin of dipping sauce for a fun twist on the usual presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, store leftover Best Easy Mini Meatloaf with Ground Turkey in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Each mini loaf holds its shape beautifully, making it perfect for quick grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Freezing
To freeze, cool the mini meatloaves thoroughly, then arrange them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Pop the mini meatloaves in a 350°F oven, covered with foil to keep them moist, for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. For a quicker fix, microwave on medium power in short bursts, but be careful not to overdo it—just until they’re hot all the way through!
FAQs
Can I substitute ground beef or chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Best Easy Mini Meatloaf with Ground Turkey is amazing as written, you can easily swap in lean ground beef or even ground chicken if you prefer. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as it may vary slightly with different meats.
How do I keep my mini meatloaves from sticking to the pan?
Lightly grease your muffin tin with oil or nonstick spray before filling. If you want extra insurance, you can line each cup with a strip of parchment paper as a handle for easy removal.
What’s the best way to get mini meatloaves out of the muffin tin?
After letting them rest for 5 minutes, gently run a butter knife around each mini meatloaf, then lift out with a fork or the parchment strip. Be gentle, as they’ll be tender and piping hot!
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute your favorite dairy-free milk and opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs or even ground oats. The Best Easy Mini Meatloaf with Ground Turkey is super flexible for different dietary needs.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Definitely. The individual size makes them perfect for portion-controlled meal prep. Store them in separate containers with your favorite sides for grab-and-go lunches all week.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Best Easy Mini Meatloaf with Ground Turkey, it’ll earn a spot on your regular dinner rotation. There’s just something irresistibly cozy and fun about these mini loaves—easy to make, easy to love, and perfect for sharing. Give them a go and watch them disappear!
Print
Best Easy Mini Meatloaf with Ground Turkey Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 mini meatloaves 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Best Easy Mini Meatloaves with Ground Turkey are a delicious and healthier twist on traditional meatloaf. Perfectly portioned and packed with flavor, they make a great weeknight dinner option.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 small onion (finely diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Seasonings:
- 1/4 cup ketchup (plus more for topping)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined—do not overmix.
- Form Mini Meatloaves: Divide the mixture among 8–10 muffin cups, pressing gently to fill each cup. Top each with a small spoonful of ketchup.
- Bake: Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Garnish: Let rest for 5 minutes before removing from tin. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Notes
- You can swap breadcrumbs for crushed oats or use a dairy-free milk alternative if needed.
- These mini meatloaves are perfect for meal prep and freeze well.
- Serve with mashed potatoes or a side salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini meatloaf
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
