If you’re searching for a cozy, flavor-packed twist on a classic family favorite, look no further than this Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf. Moist, savory, and brimming with nostalgic holiday flavors, this dish takes all the best parts of Thanksgiving and bundles them into an irresistible weeknight dinner. It’s simple enough for any night, yet special enough to draw rave reviews from kids and grownups alike. Trust me, you’ll want to make room in your regular rotation for this Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love most about this recipe is how every ingredient does some heavy lifting to transform a few basics into pure comfort food. A good Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf is all about those little touches—each item in the list brings a boost of flavor, tenderness, or golden color you won’t want to skip.
- Ground turkey: The ideal base: lean, juicy, and perfect for showing off the stuffing mix’s herby goodness.
- Stuffing mix: Pre-seasoned breadcrumbs pack in that cozy, savory flavor with minimal effort.
- Eggs: These bind everything together so your slices hold up beautifully.
- Milk: Softens the stuffing and keeps the meatloaf extra moist.
- Chicken broth: Adds deeper poultry flavor and ensures each bite is tender, not dry.
- Onion: Brings a subtle sweetness and a welcome pop of flavor throughout.
- Garlic powder: Adds gentle warmth without the fuss of mincing garlic.
- Dried thyme: A classic herb that complements turkey and stuffing perfectly.
- Salt and black pepper: Ensures every bite is well-seasoned and balanced.
- Ketchup or turkey gravy (optional): For a saucy topping that creates a glossy, flavorful finish. Try cranberry sauce for a festive spin!
How to Make Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf
Step 1: Mix the Stuffing Base
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan so nothing sticks. In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry stuffing mix, milk, and chicken broth. Let everything soak for about five minutes; this turns the stuffing cubes soft and pillowy, ready to infuse the Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf with serious flavor.
Step 2: Assemble the Meatloaf Mixture
Add the ground turkey, eggs, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the softened stuffing mix. Now, using your hands or a gentle spatula, mix until everything is evenly incorporated, but try not to overwork it. This is the secret to a tender, not tough, Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf – a quick, light touch!
Step 3: Shape and Top the Meatloaf
Press the mixture evenly into your prepared loaf pan, making sure to get it all the way into the corners for an even bake. If you like, spread a layer of ketchup or turkey gravy on top for extra richness and a gorgeous glaze. You can even swap in cranberry sauce for a tangy, holiday-style finish.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Slide the pan into your heated oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part hits 165°F (74°C). Let it rest for ten minutes outside the oven—this lets the juices redistribute for perfect slicing, so your Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf holds together beautifully.
How to Serve Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme right before serving makes your Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf look fresh and inviting. If you went with a ketchup or cranberry glaze, add a drizzle of extra on the side for a glossy restaurant-worthy touch that’s as pretty as it is delicious.
Side Dishes
This meatloaf practically begs for classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted green beans, or maple-glazed carrots. Don’t forget a big green salad to round things out! The stuffing flavors in the loaf pair beautifully with autumn veggies or a tart cranberry relish.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf and layering it onto soft rolls with a spoonful of leftover gravy or cranberry sauce for next-level sandwiches. You can also cube leftover meatloaf and toss it into a hash with crispy potatoes for a hearty brunch everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf keeps well for up to three days and just might taste even better on the second day after all the flavors have mingled.
Freezing
This meatloaf is a freezer superstar! Wrap individual slices or the whole cooked loaf tightly in foil and place in a freezer bag. Store for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
Gently reheat slices in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to keep things juicy, or pop them in a 350°F oven covered with foil until heated through. If you have leftover gravy, give everything a spoonful before reheating for maximum moisture.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken makes a tasty substitute and works well with the stuffing flavors. Be sure to use a bit of broth in the mix to keep the meatloaf moist, as chicken can be a bit leaner than turkey.
What type Main Course
Any traditional boxed stuffing mix, such as Stove Top, will do the trick. Feel free to experiment with herb-seasoned, cornbread, or even savory onion flavors to put your own spin on the Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, just use a gluten-free stuffing mix and check that your broth is also gluten-free. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf without the worry!
How do I prevent my meatloaf from falling apart?
The eggs and the softened stuffing mix are key for binding everything together. Make sure to let the loaf rest after baking—it’ll slice cleanly once it’s cooled a bit.
Is it okay to skip the topping?
Of course! The Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf is flavorful on its own, so you can serve it plain or add any sauce you love on the side. The toppings just add an extra bit of color and flavor but aren’t strictly necessary.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re just as excited to try this Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf as I am to share it! When you want the comfort of Thanksgiving flavors in a simple, anytime meal, this recipe absolutely delivers. Give it a go the next time you’re craving something homey and satisfying—you’ll make new fans in no time.
Print
Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf combines the flavors of a traditional stuffing with the heartiness of a classic meatloaf. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or to use up Thanksgiving leftovers!
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1½ pounds ground turkey
- 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (such as Stove Top)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Topping (Optional):
- ½ cup ketchup or turkey gravy
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Prepare the Stuffing: In a large bowl, combine the stuffing mix, milk, and chicken broth. Let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
- Mix the Meatloaf: Add the ground turkey, eggs, onion, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until well combined.
- Bake: Transfer the mixture to the loaf pan, press down evenly. Spread ketchup or gravy on top if desired. Bake for 55–65 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can swap ketchup for cranberry sauce or serve with extra gravy on the side.
- This meatloaf makes great leftovers for sandwiches.
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