This Cheesy Turkey Meat Loaf is a delicious twist on the classic comfort food. Made with lean ground turkey, it’s a healthier option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The meatloaf is infused with a mix of savory herbs, spices, and a generous helping of cheddar cheese, making every bite tender, juicy, and bursting with cheesy goodness. The addition of breadcrumbs and eggs helps to bind the ingredients together, ensuring a moist texture, while a tangy ketchup glaze on top adds a perfect, slightly sweet contrast. This meatloaf is perfect for weeknight dinners and pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ lbs ground turkey
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup ketchup (for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (for glaze)
- 1 teaspoon mustard (for glaze)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, minced garlic, milk, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly combined, but avoid over-mixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing down lightly to shape it into a loaf.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together ½ cup ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meatloaf, keeping it moist. Serve warm, and enjoy with your favorite sides!
This Cheesy Turkey Meat Loaf makes great leftovers and is even better the next day in a sandwich!
