Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Loaf
A savory turkey meatloaf glazed with tangy cranberry sauce, combining herbs, vegetables, and spices for a flavorful family-friendly dish perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the sausage in a heavy skillet until browned, stirring to crumble.
- Add diced onion and celery; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Drain well.
- Combine the sausage mixture, ground turkey, stuffing mix, evaporated milk, parsley, eggs, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl; mix well.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place in a lightly greased 8 x 4 x 3-inch loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 55 to 60 minutes or until done.
- Pour off excess liquid from the loaf.
- Transfer the loaf to a serving platter and spoon 1/2 cup Cranberry Glaze over the top. Serve the remaining glaze with the loaf.
Tips & Substitutions
For a leaner option, you can substitute the pork sausage with turkey sausage or omit it entirely, adding extra seasonings to enhance flavor. If you prefer a moister loaf, consider adding grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots. Additionally, using a mix of fresh herbs instead of just parsley can elevate the taste. Make sure to monitor the loaf for doneness with a meat thermometer, aiming for 165°F.
Serving Suggestions
This turkey loaf pairs beautifully with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad. For a heartier meal, serve with creamy casserole dishes like Daddy'S Buttermilk Corn Bread or roasted vegetables. Drizzle additional cranberry glaze over the slices for extra flavor, and consider serving with a tangy cranberry salad for a festive touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, reheating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Loaf contains roughly 528 calories, with 15g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 631mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this turkey loaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the turkey loaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just shape it into a loaf and bake it when you're ready to serve. This makes it a convenient option for holiday meals or busy weeknights.
What can I use if I don't have stuffing mix?
If you don't have stuffing mix, you can use breadcrumbs combined with your favorite herbs and spices to mimic the flavor of stuffing. Alternatively, crushed crackers or cooked rice can work as substitutes, adjusting the liquid content as necessary.
How do I know when the turkey loaf is cooked through?
To ensure the turkey loaf is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F. Additionally, the surface should be golden brown, and juices should run clear when you cut into it.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).