Savory Turkey Meatloaf Recipe with Onion Gravy and Red Sauce

Hey food lovers! Welcome back to Everything About Tasty Stuff (EATS), your go-to place for all things delicious! Today, we’re diving into a classic that’s been a family favorite for generations – meatloaf. But not just any meatloaf. We’re talking about a mouthwatering, juicy Turkey Meatloaf topped with a savory onion gravy and served with a tangy red sauce. This isn’t your grandma’s meatloaf (though we love you, Grandma!). It’s healthier, tastier, and just as comforting. So, are you ready to transform your dinner game? Let’s get cooking!

If you’re a fan of comfort food with a modern twist, this turkey meatloaf recipe is for you! We’ve got everything you need to make this dish shine, including perfect pairings and variations to suit every palate. Let’s make this mealtime memorable!

Before we get our hands messy, let’s take a quick stroll down memory lane. Meatloaf has been a staple in American kitchens since the Great Depression. Why? Because it’s a genius way to stretch your meat supply. Originally made with a mix of ground meats, breadcrumbs, and whatever spices were on hand, it became a beloved dish across the country. Fast forward to today, and we’re giving it a modern twist with lean turkey, rich flavors, and a couple of fantastic sauces to bring it all together.

Turkey, you ask? Yes, turkey! It’s leaner, lighter, and absorbs flavors like a dream. Plus, it’s a healthier option, perfect for those looking to cut back on red meat without sacrificing taste. When you pair it with our rich onion gravy and tangy red sauce, you’ve got a dish that’s both wholesome and downright delicious. Ready to impress your guests or treat yourself? Let’s break it down.

Classic American Turkey Meatloaf Served Two Ways

Recipe by everythingabouttastystuff

0.0 from 0 votes

Difficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

56

minutes

This Classic American Turkey Meatloaf Served Two Ways is the perfect blend of tradition and modern flavor. It’s healthy, hearty, and oh-so-satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs Ground Turkey (85% fat, but leaner if preferred)

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat or gluten-free, if preferred)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup 1/2 cup milk (or almond milk for a dairy-free option)

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried basil

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• For Onion Gravy

• 2 large onions, thinly sliced

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)

• 2 cups beef or chicken broth

• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). We want it nice and hot for our meatloaf to bake perfectly.
• In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, beaten eggs, Worcestershire sauce, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Use your hands – it’s the best tool for this job! Mix until everything is just combined.
• Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf, pressing gently to make sure it holds together. If you’re using a baking dish, make sure it has high sides to catch any juices.
• Pop it in the oven and bake for about an hour, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C). For a crispy exterior, crank the oven up to 400°F (200°C) for the last 10 minutes.
• Making the Onion Gravy
• While the meatloaf is baking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden brown and caramelized. This takes about 20-25 minutes, but it’s worth it!
• Sprinkle flour (or cornstarch) over the onions and stir well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste.
• Gradually pour in the broth, stirring constantly. If you’re feeling fancy, add some white wine. Bring to a simmer and cook until it thickens, about 5-10 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme if you’ve got it.
• Rest, Slice, Dress
• Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute. Slice it up with a sharp knife. Arrange the slices on a serving platter or individual plates. Drizzle with the luscious onion gravy.