This is the basic recipe for the best classic ground turkey meatloaf. Of course, quality and fresh meat are also crucial here. Another essential factor is the amount and mix of herbs used, influencing the final flavors of this traditional turkey meatloaf. You have plenty of room to adjust according to your taste and enhance the recipe. It’s straightforward, and you can easily memorize it. If you’re interested in a meatloaf recipe commonly made in the Czech Republic, check this one out.
Recipe
Ingredients in this recipe
- 1.5 lbs of good quality ground turkey
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 to 3 cloves of minced garlic
- 1/2 cup ketchup or tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Optional: other spices according to your taste
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-step instructions
Mix breadcrumbs and milk in a bowl. Let them soak for a few minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb all the milk. Adjust with a little more milk or breadcrumbs if needed.
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, soaked breadcrumbs, beaten egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined. For better distribution, consider mixing the spices, onion, and garlic separately and then adding them to the other ingredients in the bowl.
Turn on and preheat your oven to 190 °C (375 °F).
Mix all the ingredients well in place with your hands. When you achieve the desired consistency, create a loaf using a mold or your hands directly on the baking sheet. Place in a greased or paper-lined baking pan.
Optionally, cover the top of the meatloaf with a thin layer of ketchup or homemade tomato sauce for added flavor and to prevent drying during baking.
Place the roasting dish with the ground turkey in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches approximately 74 °C (165 °F). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Take the finished meatloaf out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes to allow the meat to settle. Then you can start slicing and serving, or place the entire meatloaf in the middle of the table and let everyone cut their piece.
Serve the turkey meatloaf with your preferred side dish. Options include mashed potatoes, boiled potatoes, sweet potatoes, vegetables, a fresh salad, or bread. This meatloaf is also great cold. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding herbs, spices, or any other ingredients you like to incorporate into the turkey mixture. Enjoy your delicious homemade traditional turkey meatloaf, and please let me know how you make this meatloaf!