Turkey Meatloaf Recipe
This turkey meatloaf is a comforting twist on a beloved classic, delivering all the flavor and satisfaction with a leaner profile. Juicy, tender, and easy to make, it’s a weeknight hero.
With a rich glaze and balanced seasoning, this turkey meatloaf is as craveable as it is wholesome. Serve it sliced with your favorite sides for a meal that’s both cozy and nourishing.
Star Ingredients That Make This Turkey Meatloaf Shine
- Ground turkey – The star protein offering a lighter, leaner base without sacrificing moisture or flavor.
- Panko breadcrumbs – These airy crumbs soak up liquid and bind the loaf while keeping the texture light.
- Eggs – Essential for binding everything together and giving the meatloaf structure.
- Milk – Adds moisture and richness to the mix; beef broth can deepen flavor if desired.
- Worcestershire sauce – Brings depth with its signature umami punch, tying all the savory notes together.
- Parsley – Fresh or dried, this herb brightens the loaf with its subtle, fresh aroma.
- Ketchup – Used in both the mix and the glaze, it lends tangy sweetness and rich tomato flavor.
- Brown sugar – A touch of molasses sweetness that balances the acidity of the ketchup in the glaze.
How to Make This Irresistible Turkey Meatloaf
Start by combining ground turkey with panko, milk, eggs, parsley, and seasonings in a large bowl. Mix gently to avoid compacting the meat.
Shape the mixture into a loaf on a baking sheet or use a loaf pan for a neater presentation. Whisk together the glaze—ketchup (or BBQ sauce) and brown sugar—and pour over the top.
Bake until cooked through and caramelized on top, then let it rest to lock in those flavorful juices. Slice and serve for a warm, homey meal that never disappoints.
Secrets & Twists for the Perfect Loaf
For even more flavor, consider swapping the dried garlic and onion for freshly sautéed aromatics. Their sweetness and depth add an extra homemade touch.
Feeling adventurous? Add a dash of sriracha or chili flakes to the glaze for a subtle kick. For a gluten-free variation, sub in certified GF breadcrumbs or rolled oats without sacrificing texture.
This meatloaf also shines with extra sauce—brush on an additional layer in the last 10 minutes of baking or serve some on the side for dipping. Don’t forget, good quality ground turkey makes all the difference in flavor and juiciness.
Leftovers That Hit Just As Hard
Leftover turkey meatloaf stores beautifully. Let it cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or extra glaze if needed to restore moisture.
This meatloaf makes excellent leftovers for sandwiches, grain bowls, or quick weeknight dinners that feel like comfort food all over again.
Turkey Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients
Meatloaf:
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2-3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley or 2 teaspoons dried
- ¼ cup whole milk or beef broth with additional if needed
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 large eggs lightly beaten
- 2 pounds 90% lean ground turkey or a combination of 1 pound each ground beef and turkey
- 1 ¼ teaspoons Kosher salt
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- ½ cup ketchup or barbecue sauce or a combination of both
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Prepare a baking sheet or a 9×5-inch loaf pan by lining it with aluminum foil and coating it with a light layer of nonstick spray. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, panko breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir just until incorporated to maintain a tender texture.
- Shape the blended mixture into a loaf and position it on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a separate small bowl, blend together the ketchup (or BBQ sauce) with the brown sugar. Spread the sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. For additional flavor, freshly ground pepper can be sprinkled on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Once done, let the meatloaf rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing into 8 to 10 pieces.
