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Turkey Meatloaf

Turkey Meatloaf

  • Author: David
  • Total Time: 60-65 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Turkey Meatloaf recipe provides a comforting, easy-to-make meal perfect for busy evenings. Featuring lean ground turkey combined with smoked turkey bacon and melty plant-based cheese (plant-based), it delivers a flavorful and moist meatloaf with wholesome ingredients and savory accents. Ready in under an hour, this recipe is customizable, nourishing, and great for a lighter take on a classic favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 4 slices smoked turkey bacon
  • 1 cup plant-based cheese (plant-based), shredded or small cubes
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste (natural)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Variations

  • 1/2 cup finely grated carrot or zucchini (for added moisture and nutrients)
  • 1/2 tsp chili flakes or hot paprika (for spicy kick)
  • Fresh thyme, rosemary, or oregano instead of parsley (for herb infusion)
  • Additional tomato paste (natural) mixed with 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (natural) for glaze
  • Substitute ground turkey with 1 lb crumbled firm tofu or cooked lentils for a plant-based version

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Smoked Turkey Bacon and Vegetables: Cook the smoked turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, then set aside. In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant to build flavor.
  2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, crumbled cooked bacon, sautéed onions and garlic, plant-based cheese (plant-based), breadcrumbs, egg, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), tomato paste (natural), fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly to blend the flavors while avoiding compacting the mixture too much.
  3. Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture onto a lined baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape it evenly into a loaf, smoothing the top to ensure even cooking.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the meatloaf for 45-50 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the top is golden with slight caramelization.
  5. Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes outside the oven to allow juices to redistribute, resulting in tender, juicy slices.

Notes

  • Do not overmix ingredients to maintain a tender texture.
  • Use fresh herbs like parsley to brighten and balance flavors.
  • Resting the meatloaf after baking improves sliceability and juiciness.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is perfectly cooked.
  • For a tangy glaze, mix tomato paste (natural) with apple cider vinegar (natural) and brush on top before or after baking.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 of loaf)
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: turkey meatloaf, smoked turkey bacon, plant-based cheese, quick meatloaf, weeknight dinner, healthy meatloaf, gluten free meatloaf

Find it online: https://yummyrecipeszone.com/turkey-meatloaf/