Click to rate this post!
[Total: 2 Average: 5]
Italian Style Turkey Meatloaf
This Italian Style Turkey Meatloaf is a delightful and nutritious meal that brings together the comforting taste of meatloaf with the vibrant flavors of Italian cuisine. The combination of ground turkey, Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a moist and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a regular on your dinner table. It’s easy to make and pairs well with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Baking sheet or loaf pan
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
- Large Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Meat thermometer
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds ground turkey
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup marinara sauce for topping
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan to prevent sticking.
Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, Italian-style breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, egg, milk, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add the sautéed onions and garlic to the mixture. Using your hands or a wooden spoon, mix everything until well combined, but be careful not to overmix as this can make the meatloaf dense.
Shape the Meatloaf:
- Transfer the meat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet or into the loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, pressing down gently to make sure it holds its shape.
Bake the Meatloaf:
- Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
Add the Marinara Sauce:
- About 10 minutes before the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and spread the marinara sauce evenly over the top. Return to the oven and continue baking for the remaining time.
Rest and Serve:
- Once the meatloaf is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes on a cooling rack. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meatloaf, making it more flavorful and moist.
- Slice the meatloaf and serve with a garnish of fresh basil leaves for a touch of color and added flavor.
Notes
Tips
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a tough and dry meatloaf.
- Use Fresh Herbs: For an extra burst of flavor, consider using fresh Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and parsley instead of dried ones.
- Make it Ahead: This meatloaf can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply shape the loaf and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and follow the baking instructions.