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Classic Turkey Meatloaf

Ground turkey is mixed with breadcrumbs and seasonings, shaped into a loaf, and baked with a tangy ketchup glaze for a lighter take on the classic.

⏱ 15 minPrep time
🔥 55 minCook time
🍽 6Servings
🏷 DinnerCategory
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Classic Turkey Meatloaf with ketchup glaze, mashed potatoes and green beans

Meatloaf has been an American home cooking staple since the late 19th century, gaining widespread popularity during the Great Depression as a frugal way to stretch ground meat. The turkey version emerged in the late 20th century as a leaner alternative to traditional beef meatloaf, popular among health-conscious home cooks.

Lean, savory, and topped with a tangy glaze

Ground turkey is mixed with breadcrumbs and seasonings, shaped into a loaf, and baked with a tangy ketchup glaze for a lighter take on the classic.

Step by stepInstructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 175°C and line a loaf pan or baking sheet.
  2. Soak the breadcrumbs in milk for 5 minutes.
  3. Combine the turkey, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
  4. Shape into a loaf and place in the pan.
  5. Whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar, and brush half over the loaf.
  6. Bake 45-50 minutes, brushing with more glaze halfway through, until cooked through.

💡 Chef tips & storage

Ground turkey is leaner than beef, so avoid overmixing or overbaking to prevent it from drying out. Let the meatloaf rest 10 minutes before slicing to keep it from falling apart.

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Recipe details

Prep15 min
Cook55 min
Servings6
CategoryDinner
PublishedAugust 12, 2026
Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes

Hi, I'm Emily 🧡

Hi, I'm Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes. Simple, tested comfort food for real weeknights, written down the way grandma would. Pull up a chair. More about me →