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Healthy Turkey Meatloaf Recipe

4.6 from 127 reviews
  • Author: Nora
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

A hearty and flavorful turkey meatloaf made with lean ground turkey, seasoned with fresh parsley, Worcestershire sauce, and a blend of spices, topped with a tangy ketchup and brown sugar glaze. This lighter twist on classic meatloaf delivers moistness and tenderness while being packed with protein.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 pounds 90% lean ground turkey (or 1 pound ground beef and 1 pound ground turkey)
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup whole milk (or beef broth, plus more as needed)
  • 2 large eggs, whisked
  • 2-3 Tablespoons fresh parsley (or 2 teaspoons dried parsley)
  • 2 Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 Tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons Kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

Topping

  • 1/2 cup ketchup or BBQ sauce (I like to mix half and half)
  • 2 Tablespoons light brown sugar


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet or 9×5-inch loaf pan with foil, then lightly spray with nonstick spray and set aside.
  2. Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, panko breadcrumbs, whole milk, whisked eggs, fresh parsley, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix gently until just combined to avoid a tough meatloaf.
  3. Shape the Meatloaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape on the prepared baking sheet or place it into the loaf pan.
  4. Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup and/or BBQ sauce with the light brown sugar to create a sweet and tangy glaze. Pour this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Optionally, add a sprinkle of black pepper atop the glaze for extra flavor.
  5. Bake: Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, ensuring it is fully cooked but remains moist.
  6. Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute. Slice into 8 to 10 portions and serve warm.

Notes

  • This turkey meatloaf is a lighter alternative to traditional meatloaf, delivering a moist and tender texture with a flavorful profile.
  • Using lean ground turkey helps reduce fat content while maintaining protein richness.
  • Mix the glaze and apply it evenly for the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors on top.
  • Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing ensures juiciness and prevents dryness.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (about 1/8th of loaf)
  • Calories: 244 kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 717 mg
  • Fat: 11 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 13 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 24 g
  • Cholesterol: 131 mg