Save to Pinterest A modern, lighter take on classic meatloaf, bursting with fresh herbs and comforting flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners and family gatherings.
I made this meatloaf on a busy weeknight and it was a hit with the whole family, easy to prepare and satisfying.
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
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Soak Breadcrumbs:
- In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let soak for 5 minutes.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté onion, garlic, carrot, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes. Let cool slightly.
- Mix Ingredients:
- 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.
- Prepare Loaf:
- Transfer mixture into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top.
- Make Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Spread evenly over the meatloaf.
- Bake:
- Bake for 50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve:
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, garnished with extra herbs if desired.
Save to Pinterest This recipe always brings smiles at our family dinner tables and encourages everyone to enjoy more lean proteins and fresh herbs.
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
Save to Pinterest This herb-sprigged turkey meatloaf is a perfect flavorful meal that fits well into a healthy lifestyle and family dinners.
Recipe FAQs
- → What herbs are used in this turkey dish?
Fresh parsley, thyme, rosemary, and chives are combined to give a bright and savory herbal profile.
- → Can breadcrumbs be substituted for a gluten-free alternative?
Yes, rolled oats can replace breadcrumbs to make a gluten-free version with similar texture.
- → How can I ensure the mixture stays moist during cooking?
Soaking the breadcrumbs in milk and adding sautéed vegetables helps retain moisture. You can also add grated zucchini for extra juiciness.
- → What is the recommended cooking temperature and time?
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 50 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- → What sides complement this herb-spiced turkey loaf?
It pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a crisp salad for a balanced meal.
- → Are there common allergens in this dish?
Contains eggs, wheat (from breadcrumbs), and dairy unless a dairy-free milk alternative is used. Worcestershire sauce may contain soy.