A Thanksgiving Star: The Ultimate Turkey Meatloaf Recipe
Thanksgiving is often associated with a majestic roast turkey, but why not shake things up this year? This recipe offers a delicious twist on the classic, using ground turkey to create a flavorful and juicy meatloaf that's perfect for a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner. This turkey meatloaf recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
Why Choose Turkey Meatloaf?
Ground turkey offers a leaner alternative to traditional beef meatloaf, making it a healthier and lighter option without compromising on taste. It's incredibly versatile, absorbing flavors beautifully and allowing for creative additions based on your preferences. This recipe focuses on maximizing the turkey's natural flavors with a blend of savory herbs and spices.
Ingredients for a Flavorful Turkey Meatloaf
This recipe yields a medium-sized meatloaf, easily serving 6-8 people. You can easily double the recipe for a larger crowd.
- 1.5 lbs Ground Turkey: Choose a higher quality ground turkey for the best flavor.
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the meatloaf.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Essential for that savory punch.
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatloaf and adds texture. Use panko for a crispier crust.
- 1/2 cup Milk or Chicken Broth: Keeps the meatloaf moist.
- 1 large Egg, lightly beaten: Acts as a binder.
- 1/4 cup Ketchup: Adds sweetness and tang.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce: Enhances the savory flavors.
- 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme: A classic herb that pairs well with turkey.
- 1 teaspoon Dried Sage: Another Thanksgiving staple that adds warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt: Adjust to your taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground is always best.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Turkey Meatloaf Perfection
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground turkey, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk (or broth), egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
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Shape the Loaf: Gently shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here!
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Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.
Serving Suggestions for Your Turkey Meatloaf Masterpiece
- Classic Mashed Potatoes: A timeless pairing that complements the savory meatloaf.
- Green Bean Casserole: Another Thanksgiving favorite that adds a touch of freshness.
- Gravy: Make a delicious pan gravy using the drippings from the meatloaf.
- Cranberry Sauce: The perfect sweet and tart counterpoint to the savory meatloaf.
Tips for Turkey Meatloaf Success
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing can result in a tough meatloaf.
- Use a meat thermometer: This ensures the meatloaf is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
- Let it rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps retain its juices.
- Get creative with additions: Feel free to add other ingredients, such as chopped vegetables, cheese, or nuts, to customize your meatloaf.
This turkey meatloaf recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a healthy and flavorful twist on a classic dish. Enjoy!
