The BEST Turkey Meatloaf with Ketchup-Brown Sugar Glaze

Looking for a classic comfort food that won’t weigh you down? This Turkey Meatloaf with Ketchup–Brown Sugar Glaze is a wholesome, flavorful twist on a traditional favorite. Made with lean ground turkey and topped with a perfectly sweet-and-savory glaze, this dish is moist, satisfying, and family-friendly. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or even as a leftover sandwich filling the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lean Protein: Ground turkey keeps it light while delivering hearty flavor.
Sweet & Tangy Glaze: The ketchup-brown sugar topping caramelizes to a delicious finish.
Moist & Juicy Texture: No more dry meatloaf! This one stays tender thanks to just the right ingredients.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping ahead and freezing for busy nights.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 ½ lbs lean ground turkey
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• ⅓ cup rolled oats or whole wheat breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Glaze:

• ¼ cup ketchup
• 1 tbsp brown sugar (or brown sugar substitute)
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions

Preheat & Prepare

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.

Mix the Meatloaf

In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, onion, garlic, egg, oats, milk, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined—avoid overmixing to keep it tender.

Form the Loaf

Shape the mixture into a loaf shape on the prepared baking sheet or press it evenly into a loaf pan.

Add the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar. Spread half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.

Bake

Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Glaze Again & Finish

Remove from oven, spread the remaining glaze over the top, and return to the oven for another 5–10 minutes to caramelize.

Rest & Serve

Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve with mashed cauliflower, steamed greens, or roasted vegetables.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 240 | Protein: 27g | Carbs: 10g | Fat: 9g | Fiber: 1g

Tips for Success

• Use Rolled Oats for Texture: They help bind the loaf while keeping it moist and adding fiber.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently mix the ingredients just until combined for a tender texture.
• Rest Before Slicing: Letting the meatloaf rest keeps it from falling apart when you slice it.
• Double the Glaze: For extra saucy slices, double the glaze and serve some on the side.

Why This Recipe Works

• Healthier Take on a Classic: Swapping ground turkey for beef cuts down on saturated fat while still delivering hearty, meaty flavor.
• Balanced Flavor: The glaze is just sweet enough to complement the savory loaf, creating a perfect harmony.
• Simple, Real Ingredients: Nothing fancy—just wholesome kitchen staples that come together beautifully.

This Turkey Meatloaf with Ketchup–Brown Sugar Glaze is your answer to a comforting, feel-good dinner that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for health. Moist, flavorful, and coated in a sticky, crave-worthy glaze, it’s a crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to make and easy to love. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy a dinner that warms both your heart and your taste buds.