Herbed Turkey Meatloaf

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 50 min
🍽 Serves: 8

This Herbed Turkey Meatloaf is a twist on the classic comfort dish, offering a lighter, herb-infused alternative to traditional beef meatloaf. It's perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • It's packed with fresh herbs for a delightful flavor boost.
  • Uses lean ground turkey, making it a healthier option.
  • Quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners.
  • Leftovers make excellent sandwiches or wraps.

Ingredients

1 1/2 lb ground turkey
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg
1/4 cup milk
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup ketchup

Ingredients Explained

Ground turkey is the lean base of this meatloaf, keeping it lighter while still satisfying. Breadcrumbs help bind the loaf together, giving it structure. A touch of Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth without overpowering the herbs. Fresh parsley and basil bring bright, herbal notes to the dish. Garlic infuses the meatloaf with a warm, aromatic flavor. The egg and milk mixture adds moisture and binds the ingredients together, while Worcestershire sauce contributes a subtle umami kick. Finally, salt and black pepper season the loaf, and a topping of ketchup adds a sweet, tangy glaze.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you don't have fresh herbs, dried ones can work too. Just use half the amount.
  • Avoid over-mixing the meat to keep the loaf tender.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's perfectly cooked without guessing.

Detailed Instructions

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it's hot and ready to bake your meatloaf when you're done mixing. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey with the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, basil, and minced garlic. Use your hands or a spatula to mix until everything is just combined — you don't want to overwork it.

In a separate small bowl, beat the egg, then whisk in the milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. This wet mixture will help bring everything together smoothly. Pour it over the turkey mixture and gently mix until it's all incorporated. Transfer this to a greased loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf with your hands.

Spread the ketchup over the top of your loaf, creating a nice, even layer. Pop it in your preheated oven and let it bake for 45-50 minutes. You'll know it's done when a thermometer inserted into the center reads 165°F (74°C). Once baked, let it rest for 10 minutes — this helps it hold together better when you slice it.

Simplified Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, basil, and minced garlic.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg and add milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the turkey mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased loaf pan and shape into a loaf.
6. Spread ketchup evenly over the top of the loaf.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Serving Suggestions

This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or a simple side salad. If you're looking for something a bit different, try serving it with roasted vegetables or a light quinoa salad. It's also great sliced cold in a sandwich with some mustard and lettuce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or beef can be used, just keep in mind the flavor and fat content will change.
How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

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