Turkey meatloaf is an easy weeknight dinner, especially when it comes with a flavorful glaze or sauce. These recipes offer simple ways to keep each loaf moist and add savory flavor. Browse the ideas to find a new favorite for family dinners, meal prep, or a cozy night at home.
Helpful Tips Before You Start
A few simple steps can help your turkey meatloaf stay moist and make the glaze shine.
Choose Ground Turkey With Some Fat
Ground turkey labeled 93% lean usually makes a juicier meatloaf than extra-lean turkey. If you use very lean turkey, take care not to overbake it.
Mix Gently
Combine the ingredients just until they come together. Overmixing can make the loaf dense and firm.
Shape for Even Cooking
Shape the meatloaf into an even loaf so it cooks at a consistent rate. A rimmed baking sheet lets excess liquid drain away, while a loaf pan helps keep the shape.
Apply Glaze in Layers
Brush on some sauce before baking, then add another layer near the end. This helps prevent sugary glazes from burning while still giving the meatloaf a flavorful finish.
Check the Center Temperature
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the thickest part of the loaf. Ground turkey should reach 165°F before serving.
Classic Turkey Meatloaf with Tangy Brown Sugar Ketchup Glaze
This classic turkey meatloaf stays tender with a simple mix of breadcrumbs, milk, egg, and sautéed onion. A little Worcestershire sauce adds savory depth without overpowering the mild turkey.
The tangy brown sugar ketchup glaze turns glossy as it bakes, balancing sweetness with a splash of apple cider vinegar. Serve this comforting main dish for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed family meal.


Classic Turkey Meatloaf with Tangy Brown Sugar Ketchup Glaze
Ingredienser
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 pound ground turkey
- ½ cup plain breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup ketchup, divided
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
fremgangsmåte
- Heat the oven to 375°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Warm the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring often, until softened. Set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and cooked onion. Add 2 tablespoons of the ketchup. Mix gently until everything is evenly combined, taking care not to overwork the mixture.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 30 minutes.
- While the meatloaf bakes, stir together the remaining ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the glaze evenly over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for about 20 minutes more, until the center reaches 165°F.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold together and keeps the slices moist.
merknader
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Rimmed Baking Sheet, Parchment Paper, Small Skillet, Large Bowl, Small Bowl
Turkey Meatloaf with Honey Dijon Glaze and Roasted Green Beans
This turkey meatloaf pairs tender, seasoned meat with a honey Dijon glaze that turns glossy and lightly caramelized in the oven. Roasted green beans cook alongside it, making this a practical one-pan dinner with a savory-sweet finish.
It works well for a weeknight meal or a relaxed family dinner. The meatloaf stays moist with grated onion and breadcrumbs, while the green beans add a fresh, lightly browned contrast.


Turkey Meatloaf with Honey Dijon Glaze and Roasted Green Beans
Ingredienser
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup plain breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ small yellow onion, finely grated
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, divided
- 2 tablespoons honey, divided
- 1 pound green beans, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
fremgangsmåte
- Heat the oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed sheet pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, grated onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, 1 tablespoon of the Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon of the honey. Mix gently until combined, taking care not to pack the mixture too firmly.
- Shape the mixture into a compact loaf in the center of the prepared pan. In a small bowl, stir together the remaining tablespoon of Dijon mustard and tablespoon of honey. Brush half of this glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
- Toss the green beans with the olive oil and arrange them around the meatloaf in a single layer. Roast for 20 minutes.
- Remove the pan from the oven and brush the remaining glaze over the meatloaf. Stir or turn the green beans so they brown evenly, then return the pan to the oven.
- Roast for another 15 to 20 minutes, until the meatloaf reaches 165°F in the center and the green beans are tender with browned spots. Rest the meatloaf for 5 minutes before slicing and serving with the green beans.
merknader
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Rimmed Sheet Pan, Parchment Paper, Mixing Bowl, Small Bowl, Instant-Read Thermometer
Asian-Inspired Turkey Meatloaf with Hoisin-Sesame Glaze and Scallion Rice
This turkey meatloaf brings together savory hoisin, fresh ginger, garlic, and sesame for a tender loaf with a sticky, lightly sweet glaze. Scallions add a fresh finish, while fluffy rice makes it a satisfying all-in-one dinner.
It’s a practical choice for a weeknight meal or a relaxed dinner with friends. The glaze goes on near the end of baking, so it turns glossy without burning, and the rice is cooked with scallions for flavor in every bite.


Asian-Inspired Turkey Meatloaf with Hoisin-Sesame Glaze and Scallion Rice
Ingredienser
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 ¼ cups water
- 1 pound ground turkey
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced, white and green parts separated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon finely grated fresh ginger
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce, divided
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ cup hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
fremgangsmåte
- Rinse the jasmine rice under cool water until the water runs mostly clear. Add it to a saucepan with the water and the sliced scallion whites. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Cook according to the rice package directions, then let it stand covered while you prepare the meatloaf.
- Heat the oven to 375°F. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, panko, egg, garlic, ginger, 1 tablespoon of the soy sauce, sesame oil, black pepper, and half of the scallion greens. Mix gently just until combined.
- Shape the mixture into a compact loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake until the center reaches 160°F, about 35 to 45 minutes.
- While the loaf bakes, stir together the hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and remaining 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. When the meatloaf reaches 160°F, brush the glaze over the top and sides.
- Return the loaf to the oven for 5 to 8 minutes, until the glaze is glossy and the center reaches 165°F. Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the remaining scallion greens. Serve the sliced meatloaf over or alongside the rice, with sesame seeds scattered on top.
merknader
Cuisine: Asian
Equipment: Saucepan, Large Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Parchment Paper, Instant-Read Thermometer
Turkey Meatloaf with Cranberry Balsamic Glaze and Garlic Mashed Potatoes
This turkey meatloaf pairs tender, savory slices with a tangy-sweet cranberry balsamic glaze. Garlic mashed potatoes make it a comforting dinner that feels special enough for a holiday meal but simple enough for a weeknight.
The glaze adds a bright, glossy finish, while the potatoes are smooth and rich with roasted garlic flavor. Serve them together for a satisfying plate with plenty of sauce to spoon over each slice.


Turkey Meatloaf with Cranberry Balsamic Glaze and Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Ingredienser
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup whole-berry cranberry sauce
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 1/2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup milk, warmed
fremgangsmåte
- Heat the oven to 375°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, 1 tablespoon milk, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix gently just until combined.
- Shape the mixture into a compact loaf on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes while you prepare the glaze and potatoes.
- In a small saucepan, stir together the cranberry sauce, balsamic vinegar, and brown sugar. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, then cook for 3 to 5 minutes until glossy and slightly thickened.
- Spoon about half of the cranberry balsamic glaze over the meatloaf. Return it to the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes more, until the center reaches 165°F. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- While the meatloaf bakes, place the potatoes and garlic cloves in a pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are very tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain well.
- Return the potatoes and garlic to the pot. Add the butter and warmed milk, then mash until smooth. Serve the meatloaf with the mashed potatoes and the remaining cranberry balsamic glaze.
merknader
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Rimmed Baking Sheet, Parchment Paper, Large Bowl, Small Saucepan, Pot, Potato Masher
Smoky Chipotle Turkey Meatloaf with Tomato Adobo Glaze
Smoky chipotle and adobo sauce give lean turkey meatloaf a warm, savory kick, while a tomato glaze keeps each slice moist. It’s a satisfying weeknight dinner with a little smoky heat and a tender texture.
This loaf works well for a cozy family meal or a make-ahead dinner. Serve it with simple rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad to balance the rich, tangy glaze.


Smoky Chipotle Turkey Meatloaf with Tomato Adobo Glaze
Ingredienser
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 1 tablespoon minced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce
- 1 teaspoon adobo sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/3 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
fremgangsmåte
- Heat the oven to 375°F. Line a small rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently just until evenly combined. Avoid overmixing, which can make the loaf dense.
- Shape the mixture into a compact loaf on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, stir together the tomato sauce, tomato paste, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Spread about half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake for 30 minutes. Spread the remaining glaze over the loaf, then bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, until the center reaches 165°F.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the slices hold together and keeps the juices in the loaf.
merknader
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Oven, Rimmed Baking Sheet, Parchment Paper, Large Mixing Bowl, Small Bowl, Instant-Read Thermometer
Italian Turkey Meatloaf with Marinara Glaze and Parmesan Polenta
This Italian-inspired turkey meatloaf pairs tender meat seasoned with herbs, garlic, and Parmesan with a tangy marinara glaze. A little milk and breadcrumbs help keep the loaf moist without making it heavy.
Serve it over creamy Parmesan polenta for a comforting dinner that works well for a weeknight meal or a relaxed family gathering. The soft polenta balances the savory meatloaf and bright tomato glaze.


Italian Turkey Meatloaf with Marinara Glaze and Parmesan Polenta
Ingredienser
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup plain breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup whole milk
- ⅓ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup marinara sauce, divided
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup coarse yellow cornmeal
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
fremgangsmåte
- Heat the oven to 375°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk the egg with the milk. Stir in the breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and ¼ cup Parmesan. Add the ground turkey and mix gently until combined. Avoid overmixing so the meatloaf stays tender.
- Shape the mixture into a compact loaf on the prepared baking sheet. Spread ¼ cup marinara sauce over the top.
- Bake until the center reaches 165°F on an instant-read thermometer, about 45 to 55 minutes. Spoon the remaining ¼ cup marinara over the loaf during the final 10 minutes of baking. Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- While the meatloaf bakes, bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Slowly whisk in the cornmeal. Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring often, until thick and creamy, about 20 to 25 minutes.
- Remove the polenta from the heat. Stir in the butter and remaining Parmesan until smooth. Serve the sliced meatloaf over the warm polenta.
merknader
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment: Rimmed Baking Sheet, Parchment Paper, Large Mixing Bowl, Medium Saucepan, Whisk, Instant-Read Thermometer
Turkey Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy and Buttered Egg Noodles
This turkey meatloaf pairs a tender, savory loaf with a rich mushroom gravy and buttery egg noodles. The gravy adds plenty of moisture and earthy flavor, making this a cozy meal for a family dinner.
It is a practical choice when you want a comforting meat-and-noodles dinner without a long list of ingredients. Serve the gravy over both the sliced meatloaf and the noodles so every bite has a little extra savory sauce.


Turkey Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy and Buttered Egg Noodles
Ingredienser
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup plain breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ cup finely diced yellow onion, divided
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces wide egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
fremgangsmåte
- Heat the oven to 375°F. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, half of the diced onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until combined, taking care not to pack the mixture too firmly.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf on a lightly oiled rimmed baking sheet. Bake until the center reaches 165°F, about 40 to 50 minutes. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- While the meatloaf bakes, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and remaining diced onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are browned and the onion is tender, about 8 minutes.
- Stir the flour into the mushrooms and cook for 1 minute. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring to smooth out any lumps. Simmer until the gravy thickens, about 4 to 5 minutes, then stir in the heavy cream. Keep the gravy warm over low heat.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package directions. Drain well, then toss with the butter until coated.
- Slice the rested meatloaf and spoon the mushroom gravy over it. Serve with the buttered egg noodles and sprinkle the parsley over the top.
merknader
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Rimmed Baking Sheet, Large Mixing Bowl, Large Skillet, Large Pot
Thai-Inspired Turkey Meatloaf with Sweet Chili-Lime Glaze and Cucumber Salad
This turkey meatloaf brings together savory ginger, garlic, and fish sauce with a sweet chili-lime glaze. A little cilantro and scallion keep the loaf bright, while the lime gives the glaze a lively sweet-tart finish.
Serve it for an easy weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. Cool cucumber salad adds a crisp, refreshing contrast to the tender meatloaf and its sticky glaze.


Thai-Inspired Turkey Meatloaf with Sweet Chili-Lime Glaze and Cucumber Salad
Ingredienser
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, divided
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 garlic clove, finely grated
- ⅓ cup sweet chili sauce, divided
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, divided
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
fremgangsmåte
- Heat the oven to 375°F. Line a small rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, egg, panko, scallions, 1 tablespoon of the cilantro, fish sauce, ginger, garlic, 1 tablespoon of the sweet chili sauce, and 1 tablespoon of the lime juice. Mix gently just until combined.
- Shape the mixture into a compact loaf on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes.
- While the meatloaf bakes, stir together the remaining sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and soy sauce in a small bowl.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush the glaze over the top and sides. Return it to the oven and bake until the center reaches 165°F, about 10 to 15 minutes more. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Meanwhile, place the cucumber in a bowl. Add the sugar, salt, and remaining cilantro, then toss gently. Let the salad stand while the meatloaf finishes baking so the cucumber releases a little juice.
- Serve the sliced meatloaf with the cucumber salad alongside.
merknader
Cuisine: Asian
Equipment: Rimmed Baking Sheet, Parchment Paper, Mixing Bowl, Small Bowl, Instant-Read Thermometer
Turkey Meatloaf with Pesto Glaze and Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
This turkey meatloaf gets a savory, herby finish from a simple pesto glaze, while cherry tomatoes roast alongside it until soft and lightly blistered. The tomatoes add a bright, juicy contrast to the tender loaf.
It’s a cozy main dish for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. Serve slices with the roasted tomatoes and spoon any juices from the pan over the top.


Turkey Meatloaf with Pesto Glaze and Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Ingredienser
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup plain breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅓ cup prepared basil pesto, divided
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
fremgangsmåte
- Heat the oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, onion, milk, salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons of the pesto. Mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing, which can make the loaf dense.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf about 8 inches long and place it in the center of the prepared baking sheet. Spread the remaining pesto over the top and sides.
- Toss the cherry tomatoes with the olive oil. Arrange them around the meatloaf in a single layer.
- Bake until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches 165°F in the center, about 40 to 45 minutes. The tomatoes should be softened and lightly blistered. Rest the meatloaf for 5 minutes before slicing, then serve with the roasted tomatoes and their pan juices.
merknader
Cuisine: Italian-American
Equipment: Mixing Bowl, Rimmed Baking Sheet, Parchment Paper, Meat Thermometer
Barbecue Turkey Meatloaf with Bourbon-Peach Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash
This turkey meatloaf pairs smoky barbecue flavor with a sweet, tangy bourbon-peach glaze. A little grated onion keeps the loaf moist, while panko helps it hold together without becoming dense.
Serve it over creamy sweet potato mash for a cozy weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. The glazed top gets sticky and savory as it bakes, and the mash brings a naturally sweet contrast.


Barbecue Turkey Meatloaf with Bourbon-Peach Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash
Ingredienser
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated yellow onion
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce, divided
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/3 cup peach preserves
- 1 tablespoon bourbon
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 1/2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup milk
fremgangsmåte
- Heat the oven to 375°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, panko, egg, grated onion, 2 tablespoons of the barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into a compact loaf on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes.
- While the meatloaf bakes, stir together the peach preserves, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, and remaining 2 tablespoons of barbecue sauce in a small saucepan. Warm over low heat, stirring until smooth, then remove from the heat.
- Spoon the bourbon-peach glaze over the meatloaf. Return it to the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the center reaches 165°F. Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Meanwhile, place the sweet potato chunks in a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then simmer until the potatoes are very tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain well.
- Mash the sweet potatoes with the butter and milk until smooth. Serve the slices of glazed meatloaf over the mash.
merknader
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Rimmed Baking Sheet, Parchment Paper, Large Mixing Bowl, Small Saucepan, Saucepan, Potato Masher

