This Homestyle Turkey Meatloaf brings comfort to your table with its juicy, flavorful bite and a twist on a classic. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners.
Ground turkey is the star here, providing a lean protein base that’s both healthy and satisfying. Breadcrumbs act as a binder, soaking up the milk to keep everything moist. Speaking of milk, it ensures tenderness throughout the loaf. The classic ketchup adds a sweet, tangy note, while onion and garlic bring depth and aroma. An egg helps bind everything together, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce adds a savory umami kick. Seasoning with salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and dried oregano rounds out the flavors, giving it a homely, comforting taste.
This meatloaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or a simple green salad. For a comforting twist, serve it with roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts. A dash of gravy on top never hurts either!
First thing’s first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). You want the oven nice and hot when the meatloaf goes in. While that’s happening, grab a large mixing bowl and pour in the breadcrumbs and milk. Give them a few minutes to soak – this little trick keeps your meatloaf from turning into a dry brick.
Next, add the ground turkey, ketchup, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, thyme, and oregano into the breadcrumb mixture. Mix everything gently. Trust me, overmixing is the enemy of a tender meatloaf. Once combined, shape the mixture into a loaf and pop it into a lightly greased loaf pan.
Slide the pan into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 55 minutes. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), which guarantees it’s cooked through but still juicy. Once done, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is moist and flavorful.