When it comes to hearty, comforting meals that bring a taste of Thanksgiving to any day of the year, Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf is a standout choice. Combining the classic flavors of turkey and stuffing, this meatloaf recipe is perfect for a satisfying family dinner. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious dish and explore why it should be a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 stalks celery, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground turkey
1/2 pound ground pork
1 cup stuffing mix (dry)
1 large egg
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried sage
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Directions:
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and celery, cooking until they are softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, ground pork, stuffing mix, chicken broth, egg, dried sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and the cooked onion mixture. Mix until everything is well combined.
Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on the prepared baking sheet or in the loaf pan.
Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, blend together ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Spread this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake: Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serving Tips:
Let It Rest: After baking, allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
Slice with Care: Use a serrated knife to cut the meatloaf into even slices. This will help maintain the loaf’s shape and ensure clean cuts.
Pairing Suggestions: Serve your Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with roasted vegetables or a side of cranberry sauce.
Garnish: For an extra touch, garnish the meatloaf with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or additional herbs.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 4 days.
Freezing: If you need to store it for a longer period, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw the meatloaf in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. For best results, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also microwave individual slices, but be aware that this may affect the texture.
Portioning: Consider slicing and portioning the meatloaf before freezing. This makes it easier to defrost only the amount you need.
Yes, you can use only ground turkey if you prefer. The addition of ground pork adds extra moisture and flavor, but if you want to keep it leaner or just have ground turkey on hand, it will still be delicious. Just be sure to monitor the cooking time, as it might be slightly different.
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Alternatively, you can bake it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I substitute the stuffing mix with something else?
Yes, you can substitute the stuffing mix with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers if needed. Just ensure to adjust the amount of chicken broth to maintain the right consistency of the meat mixture. Adding a bit of extra seasoning or herbs can help mimic the flavor of the stuffing mix.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The best way to check if your meatloaf is done is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, ensure the meatloaf is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear.
Conclusion:
Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf is a delicious blend of Thanksgiving flavors, perfect for any family dinner. With its savory, herb-infused meat and a tangy glaze, it promises comfort in every bite. Easy to prepare and satisfying, it’s a go-to recipe for a hearty meal any time of the year.
This Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf combines the comforting flavors of Thanksgiving turkey and stuffing in a single, hearty dish. Perfect for a family dinner, this savory meatloaf is enhanced with a flavorful glaze and a blend of aromatic herbs. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that delivers a deliciously moist and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 stalks celery, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground turkey
1/2 pound ground pork
1 cup stuffing mix (dry)
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 large egg
1 teaspoon dried sage
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and celery until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, ground pork, stuffing mix, chicken broth, egg, dried sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and the cooked onion mixture. Mix until well combined.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place on the prepared baking sheet or in the loaf pan.
In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Spread this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Bake for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For a leaner option, you can use only ground turkey. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
If making ahead, store the uncooked meatloaf in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or bake and reheat before serving.
You can substitute stuffing mix with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers; adjust the chicken broth as needed.