why make this recipe
Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf is a delicious twist on traditional meatloaf, bringing in the comforting flavors of stuffing. This dish is perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or any time you crave a hearty meal. It combines lean turkey with seasoned stuffing, making it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. Plus, it is easy to prepare and can be served with your favorite side dishes.
how to make Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds ground turkey (93% lean works best)
- 1 cup boxed dry stuffing mix (any flavor, like turkey or savory herb)
- ½ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Glaze:
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional but adds tang)
Directions:
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.
Soften the Stuffing Mix: In a medium bowl, combine the stuffing mix and milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes so the stuffing softens slightly and absorbs the liquid.
Mix the Meatloaf: In a large mixing bowl, add ground turkey, soaked stuffing, egg, onion, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper). Use clean hands or a spoon to mix gently until everything is evenly combined — don’t overmix, or the meatloaf can become dense.
Shape and Place in Pan: Transfer the mixture into your prepared loaf pan and gently press it into an even shape. You can also form a free-form loaf on a lined baking sheet if you prefer crispier edges.
Add the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Spread half of it evenly over the top of the meatloaf before baking.
Bake: Bake uncovered for 50–55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Finish and Rest: Remove from the oven, brush with the remaining glaze, and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and makes cleaner slices.
how to serve Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf
Serve Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf hot, sliced, and topped with extra glaze if desired. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. You can also enjoy leftovers in a sandwich or wrap for lunch.
how to store Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf
To store Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf, let it cool completely. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
tips to make Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf
- Use lean ground turkey to keep it healthier but still juicy.
- Mix gently to avoid a dense meatloaf.
- Feel free to add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or celery for added flavor and texture.
- Experiment with different stuffing flavors for a unique twist each time.
variation
You can swap the ground turkey for other meats, like ground chicken or beef, depending on your preference. Additionally, try adding shredded cheese or chopped herbs to enhance the flavor.
FAQs
Can I use homemade stuffing instead of boxed?
Yes, homemade stuffing works well. Just make sure it’s seasoned well.What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
You can omit it or replace it with soy sauce or a splash of vinegar for a similar flavor.Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and form it into a loaf, then cover and refrigerate it up to a day before baking.
Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 1.5 pounds ground turkey (93% lean)
- 1 cup boxed dry stuffing mix (any flavor, like turkey or savory herb)
- 0.5 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
For the Glaze
- 0.25 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional but adds tang)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, combine the stuffing mix and milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes so the stuffing softens slightly and absorbs the liquid.
- In a large mixing bowl, add ground turkey, soaked stuffing, egg, onion, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper). Use clean hands or a spoon to mix gently until everything is evenly combined — don’t overmix, or the meatloaf can become dense.
- Transfer the mixture into your prepared loaf pan and gently press it into an even shape. You can also form a free-form loaf on a lined baking sheet if you prefer crispier edges.
- In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Spread half of it evenly over the top of the meatloaf before baking.
- Bake uncovered for 50–55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven, brush with the remaining glaze, and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.