Turkey meatloaf makes a deliciously hearty meal, perfect for those winter evenings!
While turkey meatloaf is simple to make, you may sometimes end up with a texture that is too dry or crumbly. Luckily, we have some great tips to help you make the best turkey meatloaf on the block!
Mix it up!
You may have decided to opt for turkey as it is healthier and much more lean than ground beef.
While it has its health benefits, the lack of fat content can create a meatloaf that dries out quite easily. We recommend mixing the ground turkey with 30% ground pork, to help bind the meat and retain juices.
To add moisture to the meatloaf, make sure you include wet ingredients such as tomato ketchup, Worcestershire sauce or even BBQ sauce!
Just add milk!
Another great way to add moisture and help bind your meatloaf is to soak your bread in milk until it breaks down and can be blended into the mixture.
We also recommend kneading the meat as you add in the seasonings; you’ll want it to have a slightly sticky texture.
Even if you are using breadcrumbs, it’s still a good idea to add an egg to the mix, as it is a great binding agent and adds some more moisture. And that’s exactly what you want in a turkey meatloaf, moist and structured slices that melt in your mouth!
Use vegetables
When adding vegetables to your meatloaf (we love onion, carrots, bell peppers and celery!) make sure you saute them in a little extra virgin olive oil first so that they add a touch more moisture, as well as a lovely texture.
Even though you bake the meatloaf, the veggies may not cook through properly if they aren’t sauteed beforehand.
Amp up the flavor
Seasoning your meatloaf is key to adding layers of flavor, and making sure that every bite makes you want another. Season with salt and pepper, but don’t hesitate to add in your favorite herbs and seasonings, such as oregano, thyme, parsley, and perhaps even some crushed red pepper flakes for a warming punch of spice.
Allow meatloaf to rest
Once you’ve got your flavorful and moist turkey meatloaf baked and nearly ready to serve, allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing into it! You’ll see this tip when cooking most meats.
Allowing your meat to rest for a few minutes before serving lets the juices settle in the meat, rather than pouring out into the pan when cutting the meat.
Variations
There are so many fun variations for turkey meatloaf, so you can get as creative as you like!
One of our favorite additions is smoked bacon, layered on top of the meatloaf and drizzled with rich tomato ketchup.
Or, how about an Asian inspired turkey meatloaf, with soy sauce and ginger as the main ingredients? This flavor combinations will bring your meatloaf alive, and you’ll have a hard time deciding whether you prefer the original or this gourmet turkey meatloaf instead!
If you love Asian flavors, make sure you try these Thai Chili Mini Meatloaves too!