Pin to Board A modern, lighter take on classic meatloaf, bursting with fresh herbs and comforting flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners and family gatherings.
This turkey meatloaf has become a favorite in my home, perfect for feeding the family with minimal fuss yet maximum flavor.
Ingredients
- Meat: 2 lbs (900 g) ground turkey (preferably a mix of dark and white meat)
- Vegetables & Aromatics: 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 medium carrot grated, 1 celery stalk finely diced
- Fresh Herbs: 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves chopped, 1 tbsp fresh rosemary chopped, 1 tbsp fresh chives chopped
- Binder & Seasoning: 3/4 cup (60 g) breadcrumbs (or rolled oats for gluten-free), 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk (or dairy-free alternative), 2 large eggs, 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 3/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Topping: 1/3 cup (80 ml) ketchup, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Step 2:
- In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let soak for 5 minutes.
- Step 3:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté onion, garlic, carrot, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes. Let cool slightly.
- Step 4:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, soaked breadcrumbs, sautéed vegetables, eggs, herbs, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Mix gently until just combined& do not overwork.
- Step 5:
- Transfer mixture into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top.
- Step 6:
- In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Spread evenly over the meatloaf.
- Step 7:
- Bake for 50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Step 8:
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, garnished with extra herbs if desired.
Pin to Board This recipe brings my family together every time, enjoying the hearty yet fresh flavors around the dinner table.
Required Tools
Loaf pan (9x5-inch recommended), Mixing bowls, Skillet, Chefs knife, Cutting board, Measuring cups and spoons, Spatula or wooden spoon
Allergen Information
Contains Eggs, Wheat (breadcrumbs), Milk (if not using dairy-free alternative), and may contain soy (Worcestershire sauce). For gluten-free, use gluten-free oats or breadcrumbs. Always check labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories 245, Total Fat 7 g, Carbohydrates 17 g, Protein 28 g per serving
Pin to Board 
This herb-sprigged turkey meatloaf is sure to become a weeknight favorite, combining health and flavor effortlessly.
Common Questions
- → Can I use a different meat instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken or lean beef can be substituted, but cooking times and moisture content may vary slightly.
- → How do fresh herbs affect the flavor?
Fresh parsley, thyme, rosemary, and chives add brightness and depth, complementing the lean meat with aromatic and savory notes.
- → What is the purpose of soaking breadcrumbs in milk?
Soaking breadcrumbs in milk helps retain moisture, keeping the loaf tender and preventing dryness during baking.
- → Can this loaf be made gluten-free?
Absolutely, swap breadcrumbs for gluten-free oats to maintain texture and ensure it's safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
- → How should leftovers be stored and used?
Store cooled slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They make excellent sandwich fillings or quick reheated meals.
- → What side dishes pair well with this meatloaf?
Mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a crisp salad complement the rich, herby flavors beautifully.