A flavorful recipe by Ina Garten is this Turkey Meatloaf that you can easily prepare for a hearty meal with family or friends. It’s made with ground turkey, yellow onions, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. This savory Turkey Meatloaf recipe is perfect for dinner and takes about 2 hours to prepare and cook, serving up to 8 to 10 people.
Ina Garten Turkey Meatloaf Ingredients
- 3 cups yellow onions, chopped (2 large onions)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
- 1/3 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 3/4 cup chicken stock
- 1 1/2 teaspoons tomato paste
- 5 pounds of ground turkey breast
- 1 1/2 cups plain dry bread crumbs
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 3/4 cup ketchup
How To Make Ina Garten Turkey Meatloaf
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C), making sure it’s hot and ready to go before you get into the meatloaf prep.
- Cook the Onions: In a medium pan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the chopped onions, salt, pepper, and thyme, cooking for about 15 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent, stirring occasionally.
- Add the Liquids: Stir the Worcestershire sauce, chicken stock, and tomato paste into the onions. Mix it all up, then turn off the heat and allow the mixture to cool down to room temperature.
- Mix the Meatloaf Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, plain breadcrumbs, and beaten eggs. Once your onion mixture has cooled, add that into the bowl and mix everything together until fully combined.
- Shape the Meatloaf: On an ungreased baking sheet, shape your turkey mixture into a rectangular loaf. Be sure the loaf is evenly shaped for even cooking.
- Add the Topping: Spread an even layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf, ensuring the entire top is covered for extra flavor and moisture during baking.
- Bake the Meatloaf: Bake your meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). For extra moisture, you can place a pan of hot water in the oven on the rack below the meatloaf. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes, then serve hot, at room temperature, or even cold for sandwiches later!
Recipe Tips
- Add more moisture to the meatloaf: If you want a juicier meatloaf, mix in a quarter cup of grated zucchini or carrot to the turkey mixture before shaping it.
- Let the meatloaf rest before slicing: After baking, let the meatloaf sit for 10 minutes to retain its juices, preventing it from falling apart when you slice it.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness: For accuracy, ensure the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C) before removing it from the oven.
- Add herbs for extra flavor: Incorporate fresh parsley or basil into the turkey mixture to enhance the flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
What To Serve With Turkey Meatloaf
Serve your hearty Turkey Meatloaf with roasted Brussels sprouts, sweet potato mash, quinoa salad, sautéed kale with garlic, and herb-roasted carrots for a balanced and creative dinner.
You can also pair it with spicy roasted cauliflower or creamy polenta to bring unique textures and flavors that complement the turkey perfectly.
How To Store Turkey Meatloaf
To Refrigerate: Once your meatloaf has cooled to room temperature, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to four days.
To Freeze: You can freeze turkey meatloaf by wrapping it tightly in aluminum foil or placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months without losing flavor or texture.
How To Reheat Turkey Meatloaf
In The Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C), wrap the meatloaf slices in foil, and place them on a baking sheet. Heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through, maintaining its moisture and preventing dryness.
In The Microwave: Place the meatloaf slices on a microwave-safe plate, covering them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium heat for about two minutes, checking halfway to avoid overheating and drying the meatloaf.
In The Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 325°F (163°C) and place the meatloaf slices in the basket. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning halfway to ensure the slices warm evenly without becoming dry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce mixed with a little bit of vinegar or balsamic vinegar to maintain the tangy flavor.
What is the best way to store leftover turkey meatloaf?
Store leftover turkey meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, use the oven, microwave, or air fryer to maintain its moisture.
Can I use ground beef instead of ground turkey?
Yes, you can use ground beef instead of ground turkey. Just note that ground beef will give the meatloaf a richer flavor and cooking times may need to be adjusted slightly.
Can I freeze turkey meatloaf before cooking it?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.
Check out More Recipes From Ina Garten:
Ina Garten Turkey Meatloaf
Description
A flavorful recipe by Ina Garten is this Turkey Meatloaf that you can easily prepare for a hearty meal with family or friends. It’s made with ground turkey, yellow onions, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. This savory Turkey Meatloaf recipe is perfect for dinner and takes about 2 hours to prepare and cook, serving up to 8 to 10 people.
Ina Garten Turkey Meatloaf Ingredients
How To Make Ina Garten Turkey Meatloaf
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C), making sure it’s hot and ready to go before you get into the meatloaf prep.
- Cook the Onions: In a medium pan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the chopped onions, salt, pepper, and thyme, cooking for about 15 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent, stirring occasionally.
- Add the Liquids: Stir the Worcestershire sauce, chicken stock, and tomato paste into the onions. Mix it all up, then turn off the heat and allow the mixture to cool down to room temperature.
- Mix the Meatloaf Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, plain breadcrumbs, and beaten eggs. Once your onion mixture has cooled, add that into the bowl and mix everything together until fully combined.
- Shape the Meatloaf: On an ungreased baking sheet, shape your turkey mixture into a rectangular loaf. Be sure the loaf is evenly shaped for even cooking.
- Add the Topping: Spread an even layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf, ensuring the entire top is covered for extra flavor and moisture during baking.
- Bake the Meatloaf: Bake your meatloaf in the preheated oven for about 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). For extra moisture, you can place a pan of hot water in the oven on the rack below the meatloaf. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes, then serve hot, at room temperature, or even cold for sandwiches later!