Description

This Turkey Meatloaf recipe offers a healthier alternative to traditional beef meatloaf with lean ground turkey and a flavorful, tangy glaze made from ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Sautéed onions and garlic add depth of flavor, while a blend of spices and herbs perfectly complement the savory loaf. Baked to juicy perfection, this meatloaf is an ideal main dish for family dinners, yielding 8 generous servings.

Ingredients

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For the Glaze

1/2 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

For the Meatloaf

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup of the glaze mixture (reserved from above)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 large eggs
3/4 cup bread crumbs
2 pounds ground turkey

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Instructions

Make the Glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Set aside 1/4 cup for later use in the meatloaf mixture, reserving the rest for glazing.
Sauté the Onions: Heat olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the reserved 1/4 cup glaze, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, paprika, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and eggs. Whisk these ingredients until well blended. Stir in the sautéed onions and garlic. Add bread crumbs and ground turkey. Using your hands or a spatula, gently combine everything until evenly mixed, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Shape and Glaze the Meatloaf: Transfer the turkey mixture onto a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Shape it into a loaf approximately 9 inches long and 4 to 5 inches wide. Brush the remaining glaze evenly over the top of the loaf to create a flavorful crust as it bakes.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked. Once baked, allow the meatloaf to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender.
Letting the meatloaf rest after baking helps it hold together when sliced.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked safely to 165°F (74°C).
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
For a gluten-free version, substitute bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American