Ground Turkey Meatloaf

This ground turkey meatloaf is a simple and delicious dinner that takes minutes to make! Secretly low carb, a secret trick guarantees perfectly juicy and moist meatloaf every single time!

Out of all my low carb dinner recipes, those made with ground meat are my favorite. I love whipping up some meatballs or a crustless pizza. When my butcher has fresh turkey on hand, I love to use it to make a turkey meatloaf.

Why this ground turkey meatloaf recipe will be a weekly dinner staple-

• All made in one dish. Seriously, the same bowl mixes the meatloaf and then it mixes the glaze- You literally only have one bowl to wash!
• Low calorie and low carbs. Turkey is naturally low in calories and, with a few smart swaps, this meatloaf can also be keto friendly.
• It’s easy to make ahead. This meatloaf is the perfect easy dinner for a busy weeknight because you can prep it ahead of time. Once dinner time rolls around, simply throw it in the oven!
• The ingredients are affordable and easy to find. Turkey is one of the most easily available and affordable types of ground meat, and the other ingredients are pantry staples you probably have right now!

A secret trick ensures that the meatloaf is super moist, juicy, and NEVER falls apart– the addition of milk AND ketchup in the meatloaf mixture. This keeps all the juices, while keeping it tender on the outside. The glaze adds a touch of sweetness that will have you reaching for a second piece!

What you’ll need to make this recipe

For the meatloaf.

• Ground turkey– Standard or lean ground turkey can be used. Avoid using extra lean or fat free turkey, as you risk the meatloaf being quite dry and chewy. 
• Onion and garlic– Finely chopped. 
• Eggs– Room temperature eggs. 
• Ketchup– Opt for reduced sugar ketchup or sugar free ketchup. 
• Milk of choice– I used unsweetened almond milk, but any work. 
• Parsley– Finely chopped, not dried., 
• Panko bread crumbs OR low carb alternative– For a low carb option, use keto bread crumbs. 
• Salt and pepper– To taste. 
• Italian seasonings– Adds some lovely flavor with no myriad of herbs! 

For the glaze.

• Ketchup– Again, cut the sugar and carbs with keto ketchup. 
• Vinegar– White or apple cider vinegar. 
• Brown sugar or alternative– I used keto brown sugar but if you don’t follow any specific diet, the traditional kind works. 

How to make ground turkey meatloaf? 

Start by adding all the meatloaf ingredients in a mixing bowl and mix until fully combined. Transfer the mixture into a greased loaf pan and bake for 40 minutes.

While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the ketchup, vinegar, and brown sugar.

After 40 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven and brush the top with the glaze. Bake for a further 15 minutes, before letting the meatloaf sit for 10 minutes, then slice and serve.

At what temperature is turkey meatloaf done?

The best way to tell if your turkey meatloaf is cooked is by checking its internal temperature using a meat thermometer. It should be 165F in the center.

Storing, freezing, and reheating tips

• To store: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to one week.
• To freeze: Place cooked and cooled slices of the meatloaf in a ziplock bag and store them in the freezer for up to six months.
• Reheating: Microwave in 30-second spurts until warm, or in a preheated oven.

What to serve with turkey meatloaf

If you are sticking to the low carb theme, here are some delicious keto side dishes and appetizers to pair with it-

• Keto mashed potatoes
• Cauliflower potato salad
• Mac and cheese
• Mock potato salad
• Cauliflower mac and cheese

Frequently Asked Questions