A good turkey meatloaf should be juicy, well-seasoned, and have just the right balance of tenderness and structure!
This recipe gets it right by using sautéed onions instead of raw, which adds so much richness to the final dish.
Fresh breadcrumbs soaked in chicken stock help keep everything moist, which is especially important when using lean ground turkey.
Shaping the meatloaf on a sheet pan instead of a loaf pan allows the edges to caramelize oh-so nicely, giving it an even better texture.
The best part?
It slices beautifully, holding together without crumbling, and makes the best leftovers the next day!
How to Make Ina Garten Turkey Meatloaf
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 cups Onions (chopped)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- 1 tsp Thyme (dried)
- 3 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 3/4 cup Chicken Stock
- 1 1/2 tsp Tomato Paste
- 5 pounds Ground Turkey
- 3 cups Bread Crumbs (plain, dry)
- 3 Eggs (large)
- 3/4 cup Ketchup
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
This ensures that the meatloaf cooks evenly and stays juicy.
Step 2:
In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
Add chopped onions, salt, pepper, and thyme.
Cook until onions are translucent, about 15 minutes.
Step 3:
Add Worcestershire sauce, chicken stock, and tomato paste to the onion mixture. Mix well to combine all flavors.
Allow this mixture to cool slightly.
Step 4:
In a large bowl, mix ground turkey, bread crumbs, eggs, and the cooled onion mixture.
Shape the mixture into a rectangular loaf shape on an ungreased baking sheet.
Step 5:
Spread ketchup evenly across the top of the meatloaf.
Place a pan of hot water underneath it to keep the top from cracking during baking.
Let it bake for approximately 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Flavor Balance:
Make sure to use low-sodium chicken stock, allowing the fresh ingredients to shine without overpowering with saltiness.
Bread Crumb Choice:
If you don’t have plain breadcrumbs on hand, you can use panko for an equally good texture and added crispiness.
Ketchup Layer:
Spreading the ketchup evenly helps in creating a delicious glaze. It’s worth the extra minute or two to get it just right!
Using Fresh Thyme:
While dried thyme is convenient, using fresh thyme can offer a brighter flavor. Just double the quantity for the fresh herb version.
Rest Time:
Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes after cooking. This helps in preserving the juices and makes it easier to slice.
What to Serve with Ina Garten Turkey Meatloaf
When you’re serving Ina Garten’s turkey meatloaf, you want to pick side dishes that balance the hearty and savory flavors of the dish.
Think about textures and flavors that complement the rich, meaty taste of the meatloaf.
Sweet Potato Wedges
Sweet potato wedges can add a hint of sweetness and a crispy texture that offsets the moist meatloaf beautifully!
The natural sugars caramelize when roasted, creating a delicious contrast to the savory meatloaf.
Brussels Sprout Salad
A fresh brussels sprout salad with a lemony vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch.
It can cut through the rich flavors of the meatloaf, adding a zesty twist to your plate.
Cauliflower Gratin
For something a bit different, consider a creamy cauliflower gratin.
The cheese sauce in this dish adds a layer of depth, which pairs excellently with the texture of turkey meatloaf.
Feeling adventurous yet? Try mixing in some spices or herbs for a unique flavor boost.
These side dishes can really lift the whole dining experience when having turkey meatloaf.
Variations and Substitutions
Use of Different Meats
If you’re looking to switch things up, try substituting ground turkey with a mix of beef and pork.
This combination can add a different texture and flavor profile to your meatloaf.
You can also try using ground chicken for a lighter version.
Flavorful Add-Ins
Adding herbs and spices, like rosemary or thyme, can enhance the taste of the meatloaf.
Consider mixing in some grated carrots or zucchini for a subtle veggie boost.
These additions keep the meatloaf moist and add a nutritious element.
Dairy Alternatives
If you’re avoiding dairy, swap out the milk for almond or oat milk.
You can use a lactose-free cheese alternative if you’re looking to keep the creamy texture without dairy.
These substitutes help maintain the desired consistency while catering to dietary preferences.
Gluten-Free Options
Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like crushed rice crackers or almond flour.
This adjustment ensures the meatloaf holds together while meeting gluten-free needs.
It’s a simple change that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture.
How to Store Leftover Ina Garten Turkey Meatloaf
Let’s talk about keeping your leftover Ina Garten turkey meatloaf tasty and fresh!
First, allow your turkey meatloaf to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator.
Use airtight containers for storing the meatloaf, as this helps keep the moisture intact and maintains flavor.
Covering it carefully with plastic wrap or foil works as well!
Freezing
When freezing, slice the meatloaf into portions that fit your usual meal size.
Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them into a labeled, freezer-proof bag.
Fridge Storage
For fridge storage, consume the meatloaf within 3-4 days to enjoy its best flavor.
When using the refrigerator, place the meatloaf slices in an airtight container to protect them from drying out.
Thawing
Thaw frozen meatloaf in the fridge overnight for best texture and taste.
Avoid leaving it out on the counter to ensure safety and quality.
Using these tips, you keep that meatloaf ready for a delicious meal any time! Enjoy!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overmixing the Meat
When mixing the ingredients for turkey meatloaf, it’s crucial not to get carried away.
Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough texture, which is not what you want.
Mix just until the ingredients are combined, keeping the texture soft and enjoyable.
Incorrect Baking Technique
Placing a pan of hot water under your meatloaf while baking can work wonders.
This technique helps prevent cracking by retaining moisture, thus avoiding a dried-out result.
It’s a small step with big benefits for maintaining the perfect texture.
Choosing the Wrong Pan
Using a sheet pan instead of a loaf pan promotes browning and caramelization all around.
The increased surface area allows your meatloaf to cook more evenly without becoming soggy.
Ensure you spread the mixture evenly on the sheet pan for consistent results.

Ina Garten Turkey Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 cups Onions chopped
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- 1 tsp Thyme dried
- 3 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 3/4 cup Chicken Stock
- 1 1/2 tsp Tomato Paste
- 5 pounds Ground Turkey
- 3 cups Bread Crumbs plain, dry
- 3 Eggs large
- 3/4 cup Ketchup
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
- This ensures that the meatloaf cooks evenly and stays juicy.
- In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
- Add chopped onions, salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Cook until onions are translucent, about 15 minutes.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, chicken stock, and tomato paste to the onion mixture. Mix well to combine all flavors.
- Allow this mixture to cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, mix ground turkey, bread crumbs, eggs, and the cooled onion mixture.
- Shape the mixture into a rectangular loaf shape on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Spread ketchup evenly across the top of the meatloaf.
- Place a pan of hot water underneath it to keep the top from cracking during baking.
- Let it bake for approximately 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F.