Name: Turkey Meatloaf Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 5 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil, divided; 1 1/4 cups finely chopped yellow onion (1 medium); 1 Tbsp minced garlic (3 cloves); 3/4 cup bread crumbs homemade or store-bought; 1/3 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1/2 cup (1.4 oz) finely shredded parmesan cheese; 1 1/2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1/3 cup ketchup; 1 Tbsp ketchup (divided); 1 Tbsp dijon mustard; 3 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 1 large egg; 1 large egg yolk; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 2 lbs. 93% lean ground turkey

There’s something wonderfully comforting about a homemade meatloaf that fills your kitchen with warm aromas and promises a hearty, satisfying meal. This Turkey Meatloaf Recipe strikes the perfect balance—moist and flavorful, yet lighter than the traditional beef versions, making it a staple I keep coming back to!

A loaf-shaped meat dish covered with a shiny red sauce and sprinkled with chopped green herbs sits on a white plate. Two slices have been cut from the front, showing a light brown, moist interior mixed with small green bits. A knife with a black handle lies next to the loaf on the plate. The background is a white marbled surface with some scattered green herbs and a bunch of fresh green parsley slightly blurred on the right side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Turkey Meatloaf Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Turkey Meatloaf Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Turkey Meatloaf Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Turkey Meatloaf Recipe is one of those dishes that instantly feels like home. I love how the blend of ingredients creates a moist, tender loaf with just the right amount of tang from the ketchup and Worcestershire sauce—a combo that always gets rave reviews from my family and friends.

Balanced Flavor: The mix of parmesan, garlic, and fresh parsley gives a bright, savory depth without overpowering the mild turkey taste.
Moist Texture: Using chicken broth and eggs keeps the loaf juicy and tender, preventing that dry texture turkey is sometimes known for.
Simple Techniques: You don’t need fancy skills here—just some stirring, sautéing, and shaping. It’s perfect for cooks of all levels.
Flexible & Customizable: Whether you want to add your favorite herbs or swap bread crumbs, this recipe adapts easily to your taste and pantry staples.

The image shows a white oval plate with a sliced meatloaf on a white marbled surface. The meatloaf has a smooth, shiny red glaze on top and is sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs. There are nine slices arranged neatly on the plate, each slice showing a light brown interior with green herbs mixed inside. The meatloaf end piece remains whole, with the same red glaze and herb garnish. A knife with a black handle rests on the edge of the plate, with some herbs scattered around. Fresh green parsley is partially visible in the top right corner, adding a fresh touch. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient in this Turkey Meatloaf Recipe plays a special role in building layers of flavor and ensuring the right texture. Let me walk you through the essentials and share a few tips for picking them up at the store.

Flat lay of a small white ceramic bowl of golden olive oil, a medium yellow onion finely chopped on a white ceramic plate, a small white bowl filled with peeled garlic cloves minced, a small mound of light golden bread crumbs on a white ceramic dish, a small white bowl containing clear light chicken broth, a small white bowl with finely shredded pale yellow parmesan cheese, a small white bowl with dark reddish-brown Worcestershire sauce, a small white bowl holding bright red ketchup, a small white bowl with smooth pale yellow dijon mustard, a small cluster of vibrant green chopped fresh parsley on a white ceramic plate, a small white bowl with dried pale green thyme leaves, one large whole brown egg with a clean uncracked shell, one large whole egg yolk with a clean uncracked shell beside it, a small white bowl of fine white salt, a small white bowl of freshly ground black pepper, and a mound of raw pinkish ground turkey arranged perfectly symmetrical on a simple white ceramic plate placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Olive oil: Used to sauté the onions and garlic, bringing out their natural sweetness and adding richness without heaviness.
Yellow onion: Provides a subtle savory base that caramelizes nicely for a lovely mellow flavor.
Garlic: Freshly minced gives that aromatic punch that makes this loaf irresistible.
Bread crumbs: These bind the loaf and soak up moisture; homemade is great, but store-bought works fine—if using panko, just add a little extra since it’s lighter.
Chicken broth: Keeps the loaf tender and juicy without adding excess fat.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, savory umami boost that makes every bite sing.
Worcestershire sauce: Its complex, tangy flavor pairs beautifully with turkey, deepening the savory profile.
Ketchup: A classic topping ingredient that adds sweetness and moisture; it also forms that lovely glossy glaze once baked.
Dijon mustard: Gives a subtle tang and sharp note that cuts through the richness for balance.
Fresh parsley: Brightens the mixture with herby freshness, and a sprinkle on top finishes it beautifully.
Dried thyme: Adds an earthy, slightly floral note that complements the turkey perfectly.
Egg & egg yolk: Act as binding agents, holding everything together firmly but tenderly.
Salt & black pepper: Essential for seasoning, amplifying all the other flavors.
Ground turkey (93% lean): The star protein, lean but juicy enough when combined with these ingredients.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I’m a big fan of keeping this Turkey Meatloaf Recipe straightforward, but it’s also super easy to customize. Sometimes I toss in a handful of finely chopped bell peppers or add a little smoked paprika for a smoky twist—don’t hesitate to experiment!

Vegetable Add-ins: I once added shredded zucchini and carrots for extra moisture and nutrients—worked like a charm, and my kids never noticed!
Spice It Up: If you love heat, a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes mixed into the loaf amps the flavor without overpowering.
Grain-Free Option: Swap out bread crumbs for crushed pork rinds or almond flour if you’re avoiding gluten or carbs.
Herb Swaps: Fresh basil, oregano, or chives can change up the flavor profile depending on what you’re craving.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Turkey Meatloaf Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics to Perfection

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat in a skillet. Toss in the finely chopped yellow onion and sauté until it softens and starts to turn golden—this usually takes about 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and let that cook for just 30 seconds more—too long and it’ll get bitter. This simple step builds the backbone of flavor, so don’t rush it.

Step 2: Combine Bread Crumbs and Broth, Then Chill

While the aromatics cool slightly, mix your breadcrumbs with the low-sodium chicken broth in a large bowl. When your onion mixture is ready, stir it into the breadcrumbs and pop the whole bowl into the fridge for about 15 to 20 minutes. Letting this mixture cool ensures the next steps don’t start cooking your eggs prematurely and helps the flavors meld.

Step 3: Add the Flavor Players

Once the breadcrumb mixture is chilled, add in grated parmesan, Worcestershire sauce, a tablespoon of ketchup, Dijon mustard, chopped parsley, dried thyme, eggs, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to blend well—this is where your Turkey Meatloaf Recipe really comes alive with depth and balance.

Step 4: Fold in the Turkey and Shape Your Loaf

Bring in the star of the show—the ground turkey. Use your hands to gently toss and combine everything evenly. Be careful not to over-mix, as that can make the loaf dense. Shape the mixture into a roughly 9x4-inch loaf on a lined baking sheet. Brush the top with the remaining olive oil—it helps develop a nice crust when baked.

Step 5: Bake, Glaze & Finish

Bake the loaf at 375°F for 45 minutes. Remove it to brush on the remaining ketchup glaze, return it to the oven, and bake until the internal temperature reads 165°F—in my experience, checking the loaf in three spots ensures even cooking. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This rest time locks in all those juicy flavors.

Top Tip

I’ve made this Turkey Meatloaf Recipe dozens of times and learned a few tricks that make a noticeable difference. They’ve helped me avoid dryness and ensure each bite is full of flavor.

Don’t Skip Letting the Breadcrumbs Cool: Mixing hot onions with breadcrumbs right away can scramble your eggs slightly—cooling helps keep the texture tender.
Check Temperature in Several Spots: Meatloaf can cook unevenly, so multiple checks ensure it reaches 165°F safely without overcooking.
Light Touch When Mixing: Using your hands gently avoids compacting the mixture, keeping the loaf moist and fluffy.
Use Fresh Herbs: I’ve found fresh parsley elevates the flavor far beyond dried alone, so I always include both.

How to Serve Turkey Meatloaf Recipe

Garnishes

I like to finish this Turkey Meatloaf Recipe with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley—it not only looks pretty but adds a fresh, herby note that brightens the rich flavors of the loaf. Sometimes I also add a few cracked black peppercorns on top for texture and a little kick.

Side Dishes

Pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables is my go-to—both soak up the meatloaf’s delicious juices perfectly. If I’m feeling lighter, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve shaped the meatloaf into mini loaves or even muffins—great for portion control and they look adorable on a platter. Another fun twist I tried was stuffing the center with cheese and spinach for a surprise filling everyone loved.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover meatloaf keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I usually slice it first, so it’s quick to reheat—and it tastes fantastic cold too for a sandwich the next day!

Freezing

I’ve frozen whole turkey meatloafs wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil without any texture loss. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently. This is a lifesaver for busy weeks.

Reheating

To keep the loaf moist, I reheat slices in a covered dish with a splash of broth or water in the microwave or oven. This prevents drying out and revives the fresh-baked taste.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works fine as a substitute, but because it’s generally leaner, you may want to add a little extra olive oil or an egg to keep it moist.

What’s the best way to tell when the turkey meatloaf is cooked?

Using a meat thermometer is your best bet. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F in the thickest part of the loaf to ensure it’s safely cooked but still juicy.

Can I prepare this Turkey Meatloaf Recipe in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the mixture a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Shape and bake it when you’re ready—this makes dinner prep super easy.

What sides pair best with turkey meatloaf?

Classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a simple green salad are perfect. They balance the rich meatloaf and round out the meal beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Turkey Meatloaf Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen rotation because it brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels both nutritious and indulgent. It’s the kind of comforting dinner that hits the spot any night, yet it’s approachable enough to make a newbie feel proud. Give it a try—I’m confident it’ll become one of your favorites, just like it did for me.