Description
This healthy turkey meatloaf recipe is a deliciously lean and satisfying twist on the classic comfort food. Made with ground turkey, whole wheat or gluten-free breadcrumbs, and seasoned with marjoram and a tangy ketchup-Worcestershire glaze, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner. The meatloaf is baked to juicy perfection and features a flavorful topping that complements the savory turkey base.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf
- 1.3 lb ground turkey (93% lean preferred)
- 1/2 small onion, minced
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup seasoned whole wheat or gluten-free breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp marjoram
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 cup ketchup (organic recommended)
Topping Sauce
- 2 tbsp ketchup (organic recommended)
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the meatloaf.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of ketchup with 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce. This sauce will be spooned over the meatloaf before baking for flavor and moisture.
- Sauté the Onion: Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a small skillet over low heat. Add the minced onion and cook gently, stirring occasionally, until translucent—about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Mix the Meatloaf Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine ground turkey, sautéed onions, 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup ketchup, kosher salt, and marjoram. Mix thoroughly but gently to combine all ingredients evenly without overworking the meat.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet. Make sure the loaf is evenly shaped for uniform cooking.
- Add Topping Sauce: Spoon the previously prepared ketchup-Worcestershire sauce mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it to cover the surface.
- Bake the Meatloaf: Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 55-60 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the top is set and slightly caramelized.
- Rest Before Serving: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, making slicing easier and the meatloaf juicier.
Notes
- Using lean ground turkey keeps this meatloaf healthy and lower in fat while still maintaining juicy texture.
- Seasoned whole wheat or gluten-free breadcrumbs provide texture and bind the meatloaf, choose according to your dietary preferences.
- The ketchup and Worcestershire topping adds a tangy and savory glaze that enhances flavor and moisture.
- Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing ensures it holds together well and remains juicy.
- This recipe yields about 4 servings and makes a great meal with sides like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of meatloaf
- Calories: 259 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 390 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 37 g
- Cholesterol: 104 mg
