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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes evoke the same sense of nostalgia as meatloaf. With its rich history rooted in American cuisine, meatloaf has been a staple at family dinners for generations. This hearty dish embodies warmth and satisfaction, often served alongside mashed potatoes or green beans. However, the traditional beef meatloaf can sometimes feel heavy, leading many home cooks to seek lighter alternatives that still deliver on flavor. Enter Tangy BBQ Turkey Meatloaf—a modern take on a classic that swaps ground beef for turkey, making it a healthier choice without sacrificing taste.

Tangy BBQ Turkey Meatloaf

Discover a deliciously modern take on comfort food with Tangy BBQ Turkey Meatloaf! This healthier version swaps traditional ground beef for lean turkey, infusing each bite with a delightful BBQ flavor that will have your taste buds dancing. Packed with wholesome ingredients like whole wheat breadcrumbs and fresh aromatics, this meatloaf is perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Easy to make and nutritious, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Get ready to elevate your meatloaf game!

Ingredients
  

1 ½ lbs ground turkey

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 large egg

¼ cup milk

¼ cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for topping)

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried oregano

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Fresh parsley for garnishing

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.

    Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. If you're using cheese, add that as well.

      Mix Well: Use your hands or a wooden spoon to mix all ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as it can make the meatloaf dense.

        Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and press it evenly to form a traditional loaf shape.

          Add Topping: Spread a thin layer of BBQ sauce over the top of the meatloaf for extra flavor and moisture.

            Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the top is nicely caramelized.

              Rest and Garnish: Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

                Serve: Cut into slices and serve with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or roasted veggies, for a delicious meal!

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes | Servings: 6