Turkey Meatloaf with Glaze and Green Beans

Rainy Tuesday evenings used to mean calling for takeout until I discovered how forgiving and satisfying a turkey meatloaf could be. The kitchen filled with that nostalgic blend of savory herbs and roasting meat, and suddenly takeout menus lost their appeal. My husband actually asked for seconds, which pretty much never happens with anything labeled healthy.

Last winter my sister dropped by unexpectedly when this was in the oven. She kept asking what smelled so incredible and ended up staying for dinner, sending me home with an empty container and three new requests for the recipe. Sometimes the best meals happen without any planning at all.

Ingredients

• Ground turkey: The lighter alternative that still delivers incredible moisture when handled properly
• Breadcrumbs and milk: This combo keeps the meatloaf from drying out, and do not skip soaking them together first
• Egg: The binder that holds everything together without making the texture rubbery
• Onion and garlic: Fresh aromatics make such a difference here, so do not swap for dried versions
• Fresh parsley and dried thyme: These herbs give that classic comfort flavor profile everyone recognizes
• Ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard: The holy trinity of meatloaf glaze that creates those beautiful caramelized edges
• Green beans: They roast right alongside the meatloaf and pick up all those delicious pan juices

Instructions

Get your oven ready:

Preheat to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easiest cleanup ever

Whisk up the glaze:

Mix ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire in a small bowl until smooth

Build the meatloaf base:

Combine turkey, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper in a large bowl, mixing gently until just combined

Shape and glaze:

Form into an 8x4 inch loaf on your prepared sheet and spread half that glaze all over the top

First bake:

Slide into the oven for 35 minutes while you toss green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper

Add the beans and more glaze:

Pull out the meatloaf, brush on remaining glaze, and arrange those seasoned green beans right around the loaf

Finish cooking:

Return to oven for 20 more minutes until meatloaf hits 165°F internally and beans are tender crisp

Rest and serve:

Let meatloaf stand for 5 minutes before slicing into thick pieces and serving alongside those roasted beans with lemon wedges

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This recipe saved a chaotic weeknight when nothing was going according to plan. Somehow pulling that steaming meatloaf out of the oven made everything feel manageable again, especially with those perfectly roasted green beans alongside.

Making It Your Own

Grated carrot or zucchini folded into the mixture adds moisture without changing the flavor profile much. Ground chicken works beautifully if turkey is not your thing, though the texture will be slightly more delicate.

Side Dish Magic

Mashed potatoes feel obvious but roasted sweet potatoes bring this lovely sweetness that plays off the tangy glaze. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly.

Make Ahead Wisdom

The uncooked meatloaf freezes exceptionally well for up to a month. Just wrap it tightly in plastic and foil, thaw overnight in the fridge, and bake as directed. Glaze right before it goes into the oven.

• Leftover slices reheat beautifully in the microwave with a damp paper towel
• Crumble cold meatloaf over pasta sauce or scrambled eggs
• The glaze recipe doubles easily if you want extra for dipping

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There is something deeply comforting about a recipe that delivers such big flavors with such little fuss. Here is to many more cozy nights with this reliable favorite.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I keep turkey meatloaf moist?

The combination of milk, breadcrumbs, and careful mixing prevents the turkey from drying out. Avoid overmixing the meat mixture, and consider adding grated vegetables like zucchini or carrot for extra moisture during cooking.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the meatloaf and refrigerate it uncooked for up to 24 hours before baking. The glaze can also be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Leftovers reheat beautifully and make excellent sandwiches the next day.

→ What temperature should turkey meatloaf reach?

Turkey meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Using an instant-read thermometer takes the guesswork out and ensures perfectly cooked meat without drying it out.

→ Can I substitute the ground turkey?

Ground chicken works equally well in this preparation. For a richer version, you could use a blend of turkey and beef, though this will increase the fat content. Just maintain the same quantity and follow the same method.

→ What sides pair well with this meatloaf?

Mashed potatoes, roasted sweet potatoes, or wild rice complement the flavors beautifully. A simple side salad or crusty bread also rounds out the meal nicely. The green beans included already provide a fresh vegetable element.

→ How do I know when the green beans are done?

Perfect green beans should be tender when pierced with a fork but still retain some crunch. They typically take about 20 minutes roasting at 375°F. Toss them halfway through cooking for even browning.