Pin it A modern, lighter take on classic meatloaf, bursting with fresh herbs and comforting flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners and family gatherings.
This recipe has become a staple in our house. The herbs make it especially flavorful and we enjoy it any time of year.
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 meatloaf brings my family together every time we sit down for dinner and enjoy a homemade meal filled with love.
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
Calories 245, Total Fat 7 g, Carbohydrates 17 g, Protein 28 g (per serving)
Pin it 
This herb-sprigged turkey meatloaf is a delicious, lighter alternative that your family will love on any night.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use different ground meat instead of turkey?
Yes, lean ground beef or chicken can be substituted, but cooking times and moisture levels may vary slightly.
- → How can I keep the meatloaf moist?
Adding grated vegetables like zucchini and not overmixing the ingredients will help retain moisture.
- → Are there gluten-free binder alternatives?
Gluten-free oats or gluten-free breadcrumbs work well as substitutes to keep the loaf together.
- → What is the purpose of the glaze on top?
The glaze adds a tangy, slightly sweet finish that balances the savory flavors and enhances browning.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the mixture, cover, and refrigerate for a few hours before baking to save time.