Turkey Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze (Printable)

A moist, flavorful turkey meatloaf topped with sweet and tangy brown sugar glaze. Comfort food made lighter but equally satisfying.

# What You'll Need:

→ Meatloaf

01 - 1.5 pounds ground turkey (93% lean)
02 - 1 cup breadcrumbs, plain or whole wheat
03 - 0.5 cup whole milk
04 - 2 large eggs
05 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 0.5 cup celery, finely chopped
08 - 0.5 cup carrot, finely chopped
09 - 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
10 - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
11 - 1.5 teaspoons salt
12 - 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
13 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning

→ Brown Sugar Glaze

14 - 0.5 cup ketchup
15 - 0.25 cup light brown sugar, packed
16 - 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 3 minutes until breadcrumbs are softened.
03 - Add ground turkey, eggs, onion, garlic, celery, carrot, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and thyme to the breadcrumb mixture. Mix gently by hand until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
04 - Shape the mixture into a loaf measuring approximately 8 by 4 inches on the prepared baking sheet, or press into a loaf pan.
05 - In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar until well combined.
06 - Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
07 - Bake for 40 minutes.
08 - Remove meatloaf from oven, spread remaining glaze on top, and return to oven. Bake for an additional 15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
09 - Allow meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The brown sugar glaze creates this perfectly caramelized crust that makes even dedicated beef lovers forget theyre eating turkey.
  • Its my go-to weeknight hero since it reheats beautifully, actually tasting better the next day for quick lunches.
02 -
  • If your meatloaf is splitting or cracking while baking, youre likely overmixing the ingredients—gentle hands make tender meatloaf.
  • The internal temperature of 165°F is non-negotiable with turkey, but dont rely on time alone—investing in a meat thermometer will transform all your cooking.
03 -
  • Grate your onion instead of chopping it for a smoother texture that disappears into the meat—perfect for picky eaters who object to onion pieces.
  • For an extra layer of flavor, brush a thin layer of the glaze on the bottom and sides of the meatloaf, not just the top—those caramelized edges become everyones favorite part.

Return