If you’re looking for a delicious twist on a classic comfort food, Trisha Yearwood’s turkey meatloaf recipe is MY choice!
You’ll love how juicy and flavorful it is, thanks to the blend of spices and a touch of ketchup.
One key trick I use is to mix thoroughly without overworking the meat, which keeps the meatloaf tender.
Another thing I love about this recipe is how versatile it is; you can easily add your favorite vegetables or spices.
How to Make Trisha Yearwood’s Turkey Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs Ground Turkey
- 3/4 cup Breadcrumbs
- 1 Onion (chopped)
- 1 Egg
- 1/4 cup Ketchup
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- 2 tsp Olive Oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Step 2:
Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s softened and lightly browned.
Step 3:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, 1/4 cup of ketchup, cooked onion, salt, and black pepper.
Mix until all ingredients are fully combined.
Step 4:
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
Step 5:
Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour or until the meatloaf is cooked through.
Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Use Fresh Breadcrumbs
Fresh breadcrumbs can make a big difference in the texture of your meatloaf.
Store-bought dried breadcrumbs can be used, but homemade fresh crumbs give a better result.
Don’t Overmix
When combining the ingredients, mix just until they are combined.
Overmixing can make the meatloaf dense and tough.
Add Your Favorite Seasonings
Feel free to add other seasonings like garlic powder, parsley, or thyme to suit your taste.
A little dash of Worcestershire sauce can also enhance the flavor.
Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
This ensures your meatloaf is cooked all the way through and safe to eat.
Let It Rest
Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven.
This helps the juices redistribute and makes it easier to slice.
What to Serve with Trisha Yearwood Turkey Meatloaf Recipe
Mashed Potatoes
You can’t go wrong with a classic side of mashed potatoes.
Creamy mashed potatoes pair perfectly with turkey meatloaf, providing a comforting and satisfying meal.
Add a bit of garlic and butter to make them extra flavorful.
Green Beans
Steamed or sautéed green beans add a fresh splash of color and a healthy touch to your plate.
They’re simple to prepare and offer a nice contrast in texture to the meatloaf.
Top with slivered almonds or a splash of lemon juice for an extra zing.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
For something a bit different, try serving roasted Brussels sprouts.
When roasted, they become slightly crispy and caramelized, adding a delicious depth of flavor to the meal.
A splash of balsamic vinegar can elevate them even more.
Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are a great alternative to traditional potato sides.
The natural sweetness of the fries offers a pleasant contrast to the savory turkey meatloaf.
Sprinkle with a bit of cinnamon or paprika to enhance the taste.
Quinoa Salad
Even though quinoa is often a go-to side dish, let’s bring out a different kind of salad.
Consider a barley or farro salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light lemon vinaigrette.
It’s refreshing and adds a unique touch to your meal.
Cauliflower Rice
Cauliflower rice can be a fun and healthy twist as a side for your turkey meatloaf.
It’s light, low-carb, and can be easily seasoned to suit your taste.
Add a bit of cilantro and lime juice for a zesty flair.
Variations and Substitutions
Leaner Options
For a lighter version, you can use ground chicken instead of turkey.
Using egg whites instead of a whole egg can also reduce calories.
Vegetarian Twist
Try substituting the meat with a combination of lentils and mushrooms.
This can provide a similar texture while keeping it vegetarian-friendly.
Gluten-Free
Swap out the traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
You can also use oats for an interesting texture and added fiber.
Flavor Enhancers
For a spicy kick, add finely chopped jalapeños.
A bit of sriracha mixed into the ketchup can also add some heat.
Alternative Cheese
Instead of mozzarella, try using cheddar or pepper jack.
This can change the flavor profile and offer a new twist.
Topping Variations
Instead of ketchup, you can use a BBQ glaze for a smoky flavor.
A mixture of Dijon mustard with honey can also serve as a delicious topping.
How to Store Leftover Trisha Yearwood Turkey Meatloaf
Organize the Meat
Split the leftover turkey meatloaf into manageable portions.
This will make it easier to reheat just the amount you need later.
Make sure each portion is correctly sized for a single serving.
Use Airtight Storage
Place the portions into airtight containers or resealable bags.
Press out as much air as possible if using bags.
This will help keep the meatloaf moist and prevent freezer burn.
Label and Date
Always label your containers with the date the meatloaf was cooked.
This helps you keep track of how long you’ve stored it.
Aim to use the leftover meatloaf within three to four days if refrigerated.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Over-Mixing the Meat
It can be tempting to mix the ingredients until everything looks perfectly uniform, but over-mixing can lead to a tough and dense meatloaf.
Mix just until the ingredients are combined, leaving the mixture a little loose.
It helps the meatloaf stay juicy and tender.
Not Using a Thermometer
Estimating doneness based on time alone can result in an undercooked or overcooked meatloaf.
Using a meat thermometer ensures accuracy.
Cook your turkey meatloaf to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for the best results.
Skipping the Resting Time
Cutting into your meatloaf too soon can cause it to fall apart and lose its juices.
Let your meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
This allows the juices to redistribute and makes slicing easier.

Trisha Yearwood Turkey Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs Ground Turkey
- 3/4 cup Breadcrumbs
- 1 Onion chopped
- 1 Egg
- 1/4 cup Ketchup
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- 2 tsp Olive Oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s softened and lightly browned.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, 1/4 cup of ketchup, cooked onion, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix until all ingredients are fully combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour or until the meatloaf is cooked through.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.