Healthy Turkey Loaf

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a lighter take on the classic meatloaf, but it doesn’t skimp on flavor. The combination of turkey, veggies, and salsa creates a juicy, tender loaf that’s full of freshness. Plus, it’s super easy to make and perfect for those busy days when you need a quick and healthy dinner. You can even freeze it for later, making it a great make-ahead meal!

Ingredients

• ½ pound ground turkey

• 1 egg

• ¼ cup salsa

• ⅛ cup chopped red bell pepper

• ⅛ cup chopped yellow bell pepper

• ¼ cup chopped onion

• ¼ cup dry bread crumbs

• Lemon pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, egg, salsa, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, onion, bread crumbs, and lemon pepper. Mix well with your hands until everything is fully blended.

3. Form the loaf: Roll the mixture into a small loaf and place it on a foil-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup.

4. Bake: Bake the turkey loaf in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and golden on top.

5. Serve: Let the loaf rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. It’s perfect with steamed vegetables, a side salad, or mashed potatoes.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 5 servings.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add more veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or spinach for added nutrition.

• Cheesy twist: Mix in a small amount of shredded cheese or top the loaf with cheese during the last few minutes of baking for a melty, gooey finish.

• Spicy kick: If you like a bit of heat, add some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the mix for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat slices in the microwave or in the oven until heated through. You can also slice and serve cold in sandwiches or wraps.

Can you freeze it? Yes! This turkey loaf freezes very well. Just wrap the cooled loaf tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. It will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken will work perfectly in this recipe as a substitute for turkey.

Can I use store-bought breadcrumbs instead of dry breadcrumbs?

Yes, store-bought breadcrumbs will work, but be sure to check for added seasonings. You may want to adjust the lemon pepper if using pre-seasoned breadcrumbs.

How do I know when the turkey loaf is done?

The loaf should be golden brown on top and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Can I add more spices or herbs to the recipe?

Absolutely! You can experiment with your favorite spices and herbs like garlic powder, thyme, or paprika to enhance the flavor.

Can I make this loaf in a loaf pan?

Yes, you can! If you prefer to use a loaf pan, just shape the mixture into a loaf and bake it for about 30-35 minutes. Make sure to check the internal temperature.

Conclusion

This Healthy Turkey Loaf is a delicious, leaner alternative to traditional meatloaf, with loads of flavor from the salsa, vegetables, and lemon pepper. It’s easy to make, perfect for meal prep, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it for dinner tonight or freezing it for a quick meal later, this turkey loaf will become a favorite go-to recipe in your kitchen!

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