Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy and delicious meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This barbecue turkey meatloaf recipe is your answer. It's packed with flavor, moist, and surprisingly simple to whip up, making it the perfect quick dinner idea for busy weeknights. This recipe is a testament to how homemade cooking can be both satisfying and effortless. It's a delicious dish the whole family will adore, proving that healthy meals don't have to be boring.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean or higher)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite kind!)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional, for added freshness)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan (approximately 9x5 inches). This simple step ensures easy removal of your perfectly baked meatloaf.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, barbecue sauce, onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. If using, add the cilantro now. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatloaf tough. Just mix until everything is evenly distributed.
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Shape the Loaf: Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a neat loaf.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through – this is crucial for food safety.
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Rest & Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf. Serve with your favorite sides – mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad all pair wonderfully.
Tips for the Best Barbecue Turkey Meatloaf:
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can result in a tough, dense loaf. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Add Some Veggies: Finely chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots can be added to the mixture for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Get Creative with BBQ Sauce: Experiment with different types of barbecue sauce to find your favorite flavor profile.
Variations:
- Spicy Meatloaf: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Meatloaf: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the meatloaf during the last 15 minutes of baking.
- Herb-infused Meatloaf: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a more aromatic meatloaf.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This easy recipe is a perfect example of how delicious and healthy food can be prepared with minimal effort. It's a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and best recipes, ideal for busy weeknights. Enjoy!