The Best 1 Turkey Meatloaf Recipe

September 18, 2025

Turkey meatloaf has always been a staple in my home, a true comfort food that brings everyone to the table. I remember my mom making it every Sunday, the heavenly aroma of savory spices filling the house. Now, I’ve perfected my own version, aiming for the absolute best turkey meatloaf, one that’s incredibly moist and flavorful. This recipe is so easy, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, and I even have a fantastic way to make it a delicious turkey meatloaf without breadcrumbs if you need it! Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Turkey Meatloaf

You’re going to absolutely adore this recipe for so many reasons! It’s a true winner for busy weeknights and family dinners:

Incredibly moist and savory flavor that satisfies
Super quick prep time, ready in about 15 minutes
A fantastic healthy turkey meatloaf option
Budget-friendly ingredients that stretch your dollar
A crowd-pleasing family favorite that everyone devours
This healthy turkey meatloaf is lighter than beef versions
It’s a comforting dish that feels like a hug in a meal
Surprisingly easy to customize with your favorite spices

Turkey Meatloaf Ingredients

Gathering the right Turkey meatloaf ingredients is the first step to making a delicious and moist loaf. My recipe focuses on simple, wholesome components that create fantastic flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need for this easy turkey meatloaf:

1 1/2 lbs ground turkey (93% lean recommended) – the lean percentage keeps it from being greasy
3/4 cup plain breadcrumbs – these help bind everything together and add a lovely texture
1/2 cup milk – this is crucial for keeping the meatloaf moist
1/2 cup yellow onion, finely diced – for a savory depth of flavor
2 cloves garlic, minced – because garlic makes everything better!
2 large eggs – they act as a binder, holding all the ingredients together
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped – adds a burst of freshness
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – for that classic umami kick
2 tsp Dijon mustard – adds a subtle tang and complexity
1 tsp kosher salt – essential for bringing out all the flavors
1/2 tsp black pepper – a little heat to balance the richness
1/2 tsp dried thyme – a classic herb that pairs wonderfully with poultry
For the Meatloaf Glaze:
1/3 cup ketchup – the base for our sweet and tangy topping
2 tbsp brown sugar – for that caramelized sweetness
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar – to cut through the sweetness with a bit of tang

The Best 1 Turkey Meatloaf Recipe - Turkey Meatloaf - additional detail

How to Make Turkey Meatloaf

Making a delicious, moist turkey meatloaf from scratch is surprisingly simple and rewarding. This recipe guides you through each step to ensure a perfect, flavorful result every time. Follow these instructions and you’ll have an easy turkey meatloaf on your table in no time!

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the meatloaf cooks evenly from the start. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, or lightly grease a loaf pan if you prefer that shape.
Step 2: In a large, sturdy mixing bowl, combine the 3/4 cup plain breadcrumbs and 1/2 cup milk. Let this mixture soak for about 2-3 minutes. This step is key to a moist turkey meatloaf, as it creates a tender crumb base.
Step 3: Add the 1 1/2 lbs ground turkey, 1/2 cup finely diced yellow onion, 2 minced cloves garlic, 2 large eggs, 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 2 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp kosher salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp dried thyme to the bowl. Mix everything together gently with your hands until just combined; overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.
Step 4: Transfer the turkey mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Shape it into a loaf, roughly 8×4 inches, or press it evenly into your loaf pan. Smooth the top to help the glaze spread evenly later.
Step 5: Bake for 30 minutes. You’ll start to smell the savory aroma filling your kitchen, a good sign your easy turkey meatloaf is cooking beautifully.
Step 6: While the loaf bakes, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/3 cup ketchup, 2 tbsp brown sugar, and 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar until smooth.
Step 7: Carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven. Spread the prepared glaze evenly over the top. Return it to the oven for another 20-25 minutes. The glaze will caramelize and the meatloaf is done when an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center registers 165°F (74°C). For more cooking tips, check out foodsafety.gov.
Step 8: Once cooked, let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a truly moist turkey meatloaf and making it easier to slice cleanly.

Pro Tips for the Best Turkey Meatloaf

Want to elevate your turkey meatloaf game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make a huge difference in flavor and texture. These simple tips will help you achieve a perfectly moist and delicious result every time.

Don’t skip the milk and breadcrumb soak – it creates a “panade” that’s essential for moisture.
Gently mix the ingredients. Overworking the ground turkey can make your meatloaf tough and dry.
Letting the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking is crucial for juicy slices.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety and optimal cooking.

What’s the secret to perfect turkey meatloaf?

The real secret is the moisture! Using moist binders like milk-soaked breadcrumbs and not overmixing the ground turkey are key. Following the correct turkey meatloaf cooking time also ensures it’s cooked through without drying out. For more recipe inspiration, explore our recipes.

Can I make turkey meatloaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the entire meatloaf mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. Just shape it and bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s very cold.

How do I avoid common mistakes with turkey meatloaf?

The biggest mistake is overmixing, which leads to a dry, dense texture. Another common pitfall is not cooking it long enough, or too long. To avoid a dry turkey meatloaf, ensure you use the recommended binders and cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Best Ways to Serve Turkey Meatloaf

Once your delicious turkey meatloaf is out of the oven and rested, you’ll want to serve it with sides that complement its savory flavor. These turkey meatloaf serving suggestions are perfect for creating a complete, comforting meal. You might also enjoy our ground beef zucchini casserole for another family-friendly option.

Classic Comfort: Pair a thick slice with creamy mashed potatoes and green beans. The textures and flavors are a match made in heaven!
Hearty Meal: Serve it alongside roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnins, and a dollop of your favorite gravy.
Lighter Option: Enjoy a slice with a fresh side salad and some baked sweet potato fries for a balanced and satisfying dinner.

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Nutrition Facts for Turkey Meatloaf

This recipe offers a satisfying and flavorful meal, and here’s a breakdown of the nutrition per serving. It’s a great way to enjoy a classic comfort food while keeping things relatively healthy.

Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 700mg
Cholesterol: 120mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes used. For more information on nutrition, you can consult resources like the MyPlate program.

How to Store and Reheat Turkey Meatloaf

Leftover turkey meatloaf is a blessing, making for delicious lunches or quick weeknight meals. Once your savory turkey meatloaf has cooled completely, it’s time to store it properly. For refrigeration, wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, or place them in airtight containers. It will keep well in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it for longer, this turkey meatloaf freezes beautifully! Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then foil, or use a freezer-safe bag, and it can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you have a few reheating options. For a single slice, the microwave is quick, or you can gently reheat it in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth. For a larger portion, cover it loosely with foil and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through. If you’re looking for other meatball recipes, try our coconut chicken meatballs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Meatloaf

What’s the best kind of ground turkey meatloaf to use?

For the best results, I recommend using 93% lean ground turkey. This fat content is ideal because it helps keep the meatloaf moist and flavorful without being greasy. Using leaner ground turkey, like 99%, can sometimes result in a drier meatloaf, so 93% is my go-to.

Can I make turkey meatloaf with oats instead of breadcrumbs?

Yes, you absolutely can! If you’re looking for a turkey meatloaf without breadcrumbs or want to try something different, rolled oats are a fantastic substitute. Use the same amount of oats as you would breadcrumbs. They absorb moisture similarly and add a nice texture to the loaf. This is a great option if you’re also interested in hamburger mushroom bake variations.

How do I ensure my turkey meatloaf is moist and not dry?

The key to a moist turkey meatloaf is to avoid overmixing the ingredients, as this can make it tough. Also, don’t skip the binder, like the milk-soaked breadcrumbs or oats. Using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is crucial for perfectly cooked, tender meat.

What are some good turkey meatloaf serving suggestions?

This versatile dish pairs wonderfully with so many sides! Classic mashed potatoes and a simple green salad are always a hit. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts, or even alongside a comforting serving of mac and cheese for a truly hearty meal. For a different flavor profile, consider our Indian butter chicken recipe.

Variations of Turkey Meatloaf You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, don’t be afraid to experiment! There are so many ways to customize this dish to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Gluten-Free Turkey Meatloaf: Simply swap the breadcrumbs for a gluten-free breadcrumb alternative or use gluten-free rolled oats. This works beautifully and keeps all the flavor intact.
Low-Carb Turkey Meatloaf: For a low-carb version, skip the breadcrumbs entirely and use almond flour or crushed pork rinds as your binder. You can also omit the brown sugar from the glaze for fewer carbs.
Turkey Meatloaf with Oats: Replace the breadcrumbs with rolled oats for a heartier texture and added fiber. It’s a simple substitution that makes a subtle but delicious difference.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meat mixture for a little heat.