Turkey Meatloaf with Tomato Glaze (Print version)
A moist and flavorful turkey meatloaf topped with a tangy tomato glaze, perfect for a comforting family dinner.
# What you'll need:
→ Meatloaf
01 - 2 pounds ground turkey
02 - 1 cup breadcrumbs
03 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 2 large eggs
06 - 1/2 cup milk
07 - 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
08 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
09 - 1 teaspoon salt
10 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
11 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
→ Tomato Glaze
12 - 1/2 cup ketchup
13 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste
14 - 2 tablespoons brown sugar
15 - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
16 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
17 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
# How to make it:
01 - Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
02 - In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley. Mix gently until just combined; take care not to overmix the ingredients.
03 - Shape the prepared mixture into a loaf on the lined baking sheet, or press it firmly into the greased loaf pan.
04 - In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, tomato paste, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika until smooth to create the tangy tomato glaze.
05 - Spread half of the prepared tomato glaze evenly over the top surface of the meatloaf.
06 - Bake the meatloaf for 40 minutes. Carefully remove it from the oven, then spread the remaining glaze over the top. Return the meatloaf to the oven.
07 - Continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness.
08 - Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps retain moisture and makes for easier carving.
# Expert suggestions:
01 -
- It's surprisingly forgiving, letting you get dinner on the table even on a busy weeknight.
- The tangy glaze is the secret handshake that makes everyone ask for seconds, seriously.
02 -
- Don't overmix the meatloaf mixture; a gentle hand keeps it tender and prevents a rubbery texture.
- Letting the meatloaf rest for those crucial ten minutes really does make a difference in its juiciness and how cleanly it slices.
03 -
- For an extra layer of flavor, caramelize the finely chopped onion slightly before adding it to the mixture.
- If you're not a fan of traditional ketchup, try a BBQ sauce base for your glaze for a different but equally delicious twist.