Turkey And Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that combines two classic holiday favorites into one hearty dish, you are going to adore this Turkey And Stuffing Meatloaf. It’s a wonderful twist on traditional meatloaf, blending lean ground turkey with herb-seasoned stuffing and a savory turkey gravy that keeps every bite juicy and full of flavor. Perfect for family dinners or whenever you want a homestyle meal that’s satisfying and effortless to prepare.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Turkey And Stuffing Meatloaf is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the tender ground turkey adding lean protein to the stuffing mix delivering just the right herbs and texture. The fresh vegetables give sweetness and depth, while the turkey gravy ties everything together for that irresistible savory finish.

• 2 pounds ground turkey: The lean, succulent base that keeps this meatloaf light yet hearty.
• 1 (6 oz.) box herb-seasoned stove-top stuffing: Adds classic herb flavor and a delightful texture contrast.
• 1 cup McCormick Simply Better Turkey Gravy, divided: Brings moistness and rich, comforting flavor.
• 1/2 cup carrots, diced: Offers a subtle sweetness and lovely color.
• 1/2 cup yellow onion, diced: Adds a natural savory sweetness when sautéed.
• 1/2 cup celery, diced: Gives a mild freshness and crunch.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic warmth and depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon McCormick ground thyme or thyme leaves: Infuses an earthy herbal note classic in Thanksgiving flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon McCormick ground sage or sage leaves: Complements the turkey perfectly with its slightly peppery and piney essence.
• 2 large eggs: Bind everything together so your meatloaf holds beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Helps soften and flavor the sautéed veggies.
• 2 tablespoons milk: Keeps the meatloaf moist and tender.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.

How to Make Turkey And Stuffing Meatloaf

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by heating the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in your diced onion, carrot, and celery, sautéing them gently for 6 to 8 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. Then add the minced garlic, allowing its aroma to bloom over the next 1 to 2 minutes. Once cooked, season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in 3 tablespoons of turkey gravy to infuse savory richness, cook for 2 more minutes, and then set aside to cool. This veggie base forms the aromatic backbone of your Turkey And Stuffing Meatloaf.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, herb-seasoned stuffing mix, eggs, and milk. Once your sautéed vegetables have cooled, fold them gently into the mixture along with your ground thyme, sage, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Using either two forks or clean hands, mix everything together just until fully incorporated — this prevents the meatloaf from becoming dense, ensuring a tender final dish.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and transfer the meat mixture into it, pressing it down evenly. Pour the remaining 1/4 cup of turkey gravy over the top for a glossy, flavorful finish. Place the pan in a preheated 350º F oven and bake for 40 minutes. The aroma filling your kitchen at this stage is truly unbeatable!

How to Serve Turkey And Stuffing Meatloaf

Garnishes

To elevate your Turkey And Stuffing Meatloaf, consider a simple garnish of fresh chopped parsley or thyme leaves. These add a burst of color and an herbal brightness that complements the earthiness of the sage and thyme baked inside.

Side Dishes

This meatloaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables, which soak up the turkey gravy perfectly. A crisp green salad or steamed green beans offer a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, slice the Turkey And Stuffing Meatloaf into thick pieces and serve atop a bed of creamy mashed sweet potatoes. Or turn it into a sandwich filling on crusty rolls with a dollop of cranberry sauce for a delicious midweek twist on Thanksgiving flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, leftover Turkey And Stuffing Meatloaf keeps well refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners during a busy week.

Freezing

You can freeze the meatloaf either before or after baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container. It will maintain its flavor and texture for up to 2 months when stored properly.

Reheating

To reheat, cover slices with a bit of extra turkey gravy in a microwave-safe dish and warm gently to prevent drying out. Alternatively, reheat in a 325º F oven covered with foil until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken is a lean alternative that works well in this recipe, though turkey provides a slightly richer flavor that complements the herbs and stuffing perfectly.

Is it necessary to use the boxed stuffing mix?

While the boxed herb-seasoned stuffing adds convenience and consistent flavor, you can use homemade stuffing if you prefer. Just make sure it’s well seasoned to keep the classic taste profile of the Turkey And Stuffing Meatloaf.

Can I prepare this meatloaf without dairy?

Yes. You can substitute the milk with a plant-based milk alternative and use a dairy-free butter substitute, ensuring the meatloaf stays moist and flavorful without any dairy ingredients.

How do I know when the meatloaf is done?

Check for an internal temperature of 165º F using a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is fully cooked and safe to eat. The meatloaf should also be firm to the touch.

What can I do with leftover turkey gravy?

Leftover turkey gravy is perfect drizzled over mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even used as a flavorful sauce for sandwiches made with the meatloaf slices.

Final Thoughts

This Turkey And Stuffing Meatloaf is a delightful way to enjoy familiar holiday flavors any time of the year, delivered in a simple, satisfying dish. I can’t recommend it enough for anyone seeking that perfect balance of comfort food with a touch of elegance. Get ready to make this recipe a new family favorite!

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