If you’re craving a comforting dish that brings the flavors of a holiday feast right to your dinner table any night of the week, this Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with tender ground turkey combined with a flavorful stuffing mix and classic herbs, each slice offers a perfect balance of juicy meat and savory seasoning that feels both nostalgic and fresh. It’s a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that proves meatloaf can be exciting, satisfying, and easy to make.

Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beautiful simplicity of the ingredients in this recipe is what makes the Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe so irresistible. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, balancing texture, and delivering the perfect homey aroma that fills your kitchen.

1 lb ground turkey: The lean protein base providing moistness and a mild flavor that pairs wonderfully with the stuffing.
1 cup stuffing mix: Brings that classic comfort food charm and soaks up the broth for tenderness.
1/2 cup chicken broth: Moistens the stuffing and helps bind the meatloaf without drying it out.
1 egg: Acts as a natural binder, keeping everything together perfectly.
1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
1/2 cup celery, finely chopped: Brings crunch and freshness for a well-rounded texture.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the dish.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle kick and warmth.
1/2 teaspoon dried sage: The herb that evokes cozy holiday vibes each bite.
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds an aromatic punch to enrich the savory notes.
1/4 cup ketchup: Creates a tangy, slightly sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully on top.

How to Make Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Stuffing Base

Start by combining your stuffing mix with the chicken broth in a large bowl. Letting this sit allows the dry stuffing to absorb the broth and soften, creating a flavorful and moist foundation that complements the turkey perfectly.

Step 2: Mix in the Turkey and Veggies

Next, add the ground turkey, egg, chopped onion, celery, and all the seasonings—salt, pepper, dried sage, and garlic powder—to the bowl with your softened stuffing. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything thoroughly. This step ensures every ingredient is incorporated, resulting in a meatloaf full of balanced texture and flavor.

Step 3: Shape and Glaze Your Meatloaf

Transfer your mixture to a greased loaf pan, pressing it evenly to maintain a nice shape while baking. Spread the ketchup evenly on top; this will form a sticky, glossy glaze that adds a delightful tang and keeps the meatloaf moist.

Step 4: Bake Until Perfect

Place the pan in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Bake until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure your meatloaf is safely cooked yet juicy. Once done, let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing to help it hold together beautifully.

How to Serve Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or thyme leaves over each slice to add a vibrant pop of green and a hint of herbal freshness that complements the sage in the meatloaf perfectly. A drizzle of extra ketchup or a side of cranberry sauce can elevate the flavors even further.

Side Dishes

This meatloaf pairs beautifully with roasted root vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. Consider simple steamed green beans or garlic sautéed kale for some color and nutrients on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve thick slices stacked with a dollop of gravy or cranberry chutney between layers for a fun twist. You can also turn leftovers into savory sliders or crumble warmed meatloaf over a hearty grain bowl for lunch the next day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for next-day meals or busy evenings.

Freezing

To freeze, let the meatloaf cool completely, then wrap it securely in foil and place it in a freezer bag. Frozen meatloaf stays fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in the microwave or warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven wrapped in foil to retain moisture, heating until warmed through. This keeps the meatloaf juicy and delicious even after storing.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey in this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works great in this Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe and will keep it light and flavorful.

Is there a way to make this meatloaf gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap the regular stuffing mix for a gluten-free version and double-check that your chicken broth and ketchup are gluten-free. This tweak keeps all the deliciousness without any gluten.

Can I add more vegetables to the meatloaf?

Definitely! Grated carrots, chopped bell peppers, or even finely chopped spinach can be mixed into the meatloaf to add extra nutrients and flavor.

What if I don’t have a loaf pan?

You can shape the meatloaf mixture by hand into a loaf shape and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Adjust baking time slightly to ensure it cooks evenly.

How do I know when the meatloaf is done?

Using a meat thermometer is the best way—when the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C), your Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe is perfectly cooked and safe to eat.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting and satisfying about this Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe that makes it a must-try if you want easy, flavorful meals that feel like a special occasion. Whether for your weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this dish will quickly become a new favorite you’ll feel excited to share with family and friends.

Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf Recipe