Are you tired of the same old weeknight dinners? Craving something delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Tiny Garlic and Herb Turkey Meatloaf recipe is your new go-to for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal the whole family will love. Forget those hefty, time-consuming meatloaf recipes; this version is perfectly portioned for individual servings, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping. It’s packed with flavor from fresh herbs and garlic, lean turkey for a healthier twist, and it’s ready in under an hour!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean or higher)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup milk or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- Olive oil spray
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin or individual ramekins with olive oil spray. This will prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
Mix the Magic: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, parsley, thyme, egg, milk (or broth), salt, pepper, and oregano. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf. Just mix until everything is evenly distributed.
Portion and Bake: Divide the turkey mixture evenly among the prepared muffin tin cups or ramekins. Fill each about ¾ full.
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the turkey meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can check the doneness using a meat thermometer.
Rest and Serve: Let the tiny meatloaves rest for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the muffin tin. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture will make it tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs add a vibrant flavor that dried herbs can't match.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or more garlic for a stronger garlicky flavor.
- Add vegetables: Sneak in some finely chopped vegetables like carrots or zucchini for added nutrients and flavor.
Variations:
- Cheesy Turkey Meatloaf: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each meatloaf before baking.
- Mediterranean Meatloaf: Add 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese and 1 tablespoon chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the mixture.
- Spicy Meatloaf: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This Tiny Garlic and Herb Turkey Meatloaf recipe is a fantastic example of healthy, delicious homemade cooking. It's a versatile dish that you can easily customize to your preferences and dietary needs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prepping, or even a light lunch, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy!