Meat Loaf (Turkey)
A hearty meat loaf combining turkey, beef, and pork with flavorful seasonings, perfect for family dinners and gatherings seeking a savory, satisfying main dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the chopped onion in butter until translucent.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground turkey, and ground pork.
- Add the browned onions, bread crumbs, oat bran, beef bouillon, eggs, salt, pepper, allspice, oregano, and paprika to the meat mixture.
- Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Form the mixture into two loaves and place them in an 8-inch baking dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes or until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister meat loaf, consider adding grated zucchini or finely chopped mushrooms to the mixture. If you don't have oat bran, you can substitute with additional bread crumbs or cooked quinoa. For a flavor boost, try using flavored bread crumbs or adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce. This recipe can also be adapted for other meats, making it versatile for various American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat loaf with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Best Veggie Dip as a fresh appetizer or side. For a complete dinner, consider a simple salad or roasted carrots to complement the rich flavors of the meat loaf.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meat loaf and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for quick meals.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf (Turkey) contains roughly 1173 calories, with 39g protein, 198g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (117% of the Daily Value), and protein (78% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2143mg per serving (93% 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 use only ground turkey for this recipe?
Yes, you can use just ground turkey if you prefer a leaner meat loaf. However, mixing in other meats like ground beef or pork adds depth of flavor and moisture to the dish. If using only turkey, consider adding a bit more fat, like olive oil or extra butter, to keep it from drying out.
How do I know when the meat loaf is fully cooked?
The best way to check if the meat loaf is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should register at least 165°F (74°C) in the center. Alternatively, you can cut into the loaf; the juices should run clear and the meat should no longer be pink in the middle.
Can I freeze meat loaf?
Absolutely! Meat loaf freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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).