Pin It A modern, lighter take on classic meatloaf, bursting with fresh herbs and comforting flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners and family gatherings.
This meatloaf has become a staple in our household. The fresh herbs give it a unique twist I haven't found in traditional recipes.
Ingredients
- Meat: 2 lbs (900 g) ground turkey (preferably a mix of dark and white meat)
- Vegetables & Aromatics: 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 medium carrot, grated, 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- Fresh Herbs: 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped, 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped, 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- Binder & Seasoning: 3/4 cup (60 g) breadcrumbs (or rolled oats for gluten-free), 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk (or dairy-free alternative), 2 large eggs, 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 3/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Topping: 1/3 cup (80 ml) ketchup, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Step 2:
- In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let soak for 5 minutes.
- Step 3:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté onion, garlic, carrot, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes. Let cool slightly.
- Step 4:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, soaked breadcrumbs, sautéed vegetables, eggs, herbs, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Mix gently until just combined do not overwork.
- Step 5:
- Transfer mixture into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top.
- Step 6:
- In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Spread evenly over the meatloaf.
- Step 7:
- Bake for 50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Step 8:
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, garnished with extra herbs if desired.
Pin It This recipe has become a tradition at our holiday gatherings, bringing everyone closer with its hearty and fresh taste.
Required Tools
Loaf pan (9x5-inch recommended), mixing bowls, skillet, chefs knife, cutting board, measuring cups and spoons, spatula or wooden spoon
Allergen Information
Contains Eggs, Wheat (breadcrumbs), Milk (if not using dairy-free alternative), and may contain soy (Worcestershire sauce). For gluten-free, use gluten-free oats or breadcrumbs. Always check labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 245, Total Fat 7 g, Carbohydrates 17 g, Protein 28 g
Pin It This herb-sprigged turkey meatloaf is a delicious and healthy twist on a classic, sure to become a family favorite.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use gluten-free ingredients?
Yes, replacing breadcrumbs with rolled oats makes this suitable for gluten-free diets without losing moisture.
- → What is the best way to ensure the loaf stays moist?
Adding grated zucchini or using a blend of dark and white turkey meat helps retain moisture and enhance texture.
- → How should I prepare the vegetables?
Finely chop onion, garlic, carrot, and celery before sautéing them until soft to bring out their natural sweetness.
- → What temperature and time are optimal for baking?
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe cooking.
- → Can leftovers be repurposed?
Leftover slices make excellent sandwiches and can be enjoyed cold or reheated.