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Home » Recipes » Single Serving Dinners

By Joanie Zisk Published: Feb 1, 2022 · Updated: Feb 1, 2022 · This post may contain affiliate links · Please read my disclosure

Mini Turkey Meatloaf

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slices of turkey meatloaf on a white plate

This is the best turkey meatloaf recipe! This incredibly moist and tender mini turkey meatloaf is filled with flavor and is the perfect amount for one or two people.

three slices of turkey meatloaf on a white plate

Using ground turkey instead of the usual ground beef can truly lighten up a meatloaf. Ground turkey is lower in fat than ground beef but that also means that it can be dry and bland. The key to making a perfect turkey meatloaf is to add flavor and moisture without adding a whole lot of fat. With our mini turkey meatloaf recipe, we've done just that.

This turkey meatloaf is generously seasoned with sautéed onions and garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, and is topped with a sweet and tangy glaze. It's a recipe that you'll want to make over and over again.

Why This Recipe Works

  • Made with easy-to-find ingredients: I love this easy turkey meatloaf recipe because it's made with simple ingredients that you may likely already have on hand.
  • Super moist and tender: The secret to a ultra-moist meatloaf is to sauté the onions and garlic in olive oil before adding them to the ground turkey. This brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables and adds moisture to the turkey.
  • Lower in fat and calories: Turkey meatloaf has fewer calories than traditional meatloaf and less than half the saturated fat.
  • The perfect size: This mini turkey meatloaf recipe yields the perfect amount for one or two people. If you'd like to serve two, consider adding one or two side dishes to go along with your meatloaf.

Ingredients

ingredients needed to make a small turkey meatloaf on a wooden cutting board
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Ingredient Notes

To make the best small turkey meatloaf, you will need:

  • Olive oil: I use extra virgin olive oil in this mini turkey meatloaf recipe as well as in every other recipe on One Dish Kitchen that calls for olive oil. Extra virgin olive oil is the least processed form of olive oil. It is an unrefined oil and the highest-quality olive oil you can buy. Because of the way extra virgin olive oil is made, it retains more true olive taste. It also contains more of the vitamins and minerals found in olives. It's my favorite type of olive oil to use but you may use a lighter olive oil instead.
  • Onions, garlic, and parsley: Finely chopped onions and garlic add quite a lot of flavor to this meatloaf, definitely don't leave them out. I also use 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley.
  • Seasonings:  I keep it simple by using Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. The main herbs found in Italian seasoning are basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. If you don't have Italian seasoning, use one or two of these herbs instead.
  • Ground turkey: Use 6-ounces of ground turkey. 
  • Parmesan cheese: Grated parmesan cheese acts as a binder, along with the breadcrumbs in meatloaf. It also helps to flavor the turkey meatloaf.
  • One egg: This ingredient adds moisture but also acts as a binder to hold the meatloaf together.
  • Breadcrumbs: Along with the egg, breadcrumbs keep meatloaf from falling apart. Use store-bought or homemade breadcrumbs.
  • Worcestershire sauce: A key ingredient in meatloaf. It adds a rich depth of flavor.
  • Ketchup and brown sugar: These ingredients are used in the delicious meatloaf glaze.

See below for ways to use leftover ingredients.

How To Make A Mini Turkey Meatloaf

See the recipe box below for ingredient amounts and full recipe instructions.

  1. Heat oven to 350 degrees F (177 degrees C). Heat oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook, stirring occasionally for 2 minutes.
chopped onions in a black saute pan
  1. Add the chopped garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently for 1 minute. Remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside.
onions, garlic, and seasonings in a small frying pan on a stove
  1. Place the ground turkey in a medium-sized bowl. Add the seasoned vegetables, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, Parmesan cheese, egg, and breadcrumbs to the bowl. Using a large spoon, mix the meat and all of the ingredients together until fully combined.
ground turkey, vegetables, egg, and breadcrumbs in a mixing bowl
  1. Shape the meatloaf into an oval and transfer it to a small baking dish. Bake for 30 minutes.
unbaked turkey meatloaf in a small baking dish
  1. Remove the turkey meatloaf from the oven. In a small bowl, stir together ketchup and brown sugar. Spoon over the top of the meatloaf and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
ketchup and brown sugar glaze spooned over meatloaf
  1. Remove the meatloaf from the oven, cover, and let the meat rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
a mini meatloaf in a small baking dish on a wooden counter

Expert Tips

  • Be sure to cook the vegetables before adding them to the ground turkey. It might be tempting to just toss the onions, garlic, and spices into the meatloaf mixture - but don't. Take a few minutes and sauté the vegetables, they will add more flavor and moisture to the meat.
  • Don't overmix the meatloaf mixture. Otherwise, the meatloaf won't turn out as tender.
  • Leave a little room in the baking dish or pan when baking the meatloaf. I use a 4x6-inch or a 5-inch baking dish. For best results, use a baking dish that comfortably holds the meatloaf. You could even use a small sheet pan. Giving the turkey meatloaf some space helps the edges caramelize nicely.
  • Don't forget the glaze. I like to use a combination of ketchup and brown sugar for my turkey meatloaf glaze. I love the sweet and tart flavor. For a sweeter sauce, feel free to add a bit more brown sugar. If you prefer a more tangy flavor, simply reduce the amount of brown sugar. You can also use honey, molasses, maple syrup, or agave nectar instead of brown sugar. Barbecue sauce also makes a great meatloaf topping, feel free to use your favorite sauce instead.
  • Let the turkey meatloaf rest after taking it out of the oven. Tent it with a sheet of foil to keep the meatloaf hot before slicing. This helps the loaf set up for easier slicing and locks in the delicious juices.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Will Turkey Meatloaf Stay Good In The Refrigerator?

Keep baked turkey meatloaf in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to 5 days.

Can I Double This Meatloaf Recipe?

Yes! You can double the ingredients in this turkey meatloaf recipe.

You may need to bake the meatloaf for 40-45 minutes before adding the glaze. I use my digital instant-read meat thermometer as a guide to let me know when the meatloaf is fully cooked. Turkey meatloaf should cook to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.

How Can I Make Meatloaf Gluten-Free?

To make a gluten-free turkey meatloaf, use gluten-free breadcrumbs, certified gluten-free rolled oats, crushed nuts, gluten-free crackers, or Corn Chex cereal instead of regular breadcrumbs.

If the brand of Worcestershire sauce you use is not gluten-free use ½ teaspoon of apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar instead.

What Size Baking Dish Should I Use?

I use a 4x6-inch baking dish that has a base area of 24 square inches. You can also use a 5x5-inch baking dish that has a base area of 25 square inches. For best results, use a baking dish that comfortably holds the meatloaf, allowing some room around the sides.

These baking dishes can be viewed on our Store page.

If you would like additional information on the cooking and baking dishes I use in our “recipes for one”, please visit our FAQ page.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Yes! Not only is turkey meatloaf delicious, but it's also easy to make in advance.

  • To make the meatloaf mixture a day in advance: Follow the recipe, but stop just before forming the meatloaf into an oval and baking. Keep the raw meatloaf mixture in the refrigerator up to 1 day before baking. When you are ready to bake, form the meatloaf into an oval and bake as directed in the recipe.
  • To freeze unbaked meatloaf: Follow the turkey meatloaf recipe instructions. Form the meatloaf into an oval, wrap it in plastic wrap and place inside a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
  • To freeze baked meatloaf: Let the baked meatloaf cool, and then wrap it in foil or plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Freeze baked meatloaf for up to 1 month.

Serving Suggestions

I love to enjoy a hearty meatloaf alongside traditional sides like mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables. They compliment the meatloaf so well.

Here are a few other single serving side dish suggestions:

  • Sautéed green beans
  • Macaroni and cheese
  • French bread
  • Biscuits
  • Cheese grits
  • Tomato salad
  • Buttered Noodles
a mini turkey meatloaf topped with a tomato based glaze in a white baking dish

Slow Cooker Turkey Meatloaf Instructions

I recommend using a small 1.5 to 3-quart slow cooker.

Follow steps 1-3 in the recipe.

Then, form the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in your slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for 5 hours or on low for 3 hours, until meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 165 F.

Ways To Use Leftover Ingredients

If you have any ingredients leftover from this moist turkey meatloaf recipe, you might like to consider using them in any of these single serving and small batch recipes:

  • Ground turkey: Turkey Chili, Sloppy Joe, Turkey Meatballs, Lasagna
  • Olive oil: Taco Soup, Shepherd's Pie, Tortellini Soup, Carne Asada
  • Onions: French Onion Soup, Baked Stuffed Fish, Beef Enchiladas, Ratatouille
  • Garlic: Steak Fajitas, Lemon Garlic Chicken, Baba Ganoush, Meat Sauce
  • Italian seasoning: Chicken Stew, Pork Tenderloin, Cioppino, Lentil Stew
  • Parsley: Spaghetti and Meatballs, Chicken Margherita, Shrimp Scampi, Crawfish Beignets
  • Parmesan cheese: Pasta Carbonara, Cheesy Baked Eggs, Smashed Potatoes, Bruschetta
  • Worcestershire sauce: Salisbury Steak, Shepherd's Pie, Seafood Gumbo, Irish Stew
  • Eggs: Frittata, Crustless Quiche Lorraine, Mini Boston Cream Pie, Pancakes
  • Breadcrumbs: Buffalo Chicken Tenders, Eggplant Parmesan, Giant Italian Meatball, Tuna Casserole
  • Ketchup: Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf, Reuben Sandwich, Baked Beans, Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken
  • Brown sugar: Ham Steak, Bananas Foster, Deep Dish Chocolate Chip Cookie, Butter Pecan Granola

If you’ve tried this mini turkey meatloaf or any recipe on One Dish Kitchen please let me know how you liked it by rating the recipe and telling me about it in the comment section below.

If you take a picture please tag us on Instagram (@onedishkitchen) we’d love to see it!

slices of turkey meatloaf on a white plate

Mini Turkey Meatloaf

This is the best turkey meatloaf recipe! This incredibly moist and tender mini turkey meatloaf is filled with flavor and is the perfect amount for one or two people.
5 from 4 votes
Print Pin Rate
See the post above for expert tips,
FAQs and ways to use leftover ingredients.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Servings: 1 serving
Calories: 638kcal
Author: Joanie Zisk

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • 10-inch skillet
  • meat thermometer

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ cup chopped onions
  • 1 clove garlic , minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
  • 6 ounces ground turkey
  • ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 tablespoons breadcrumbs

For the glaze

  • ¼ cup ketchup
  • ½ tablespoon brown sugar
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Heat oven to 350 degrees F (177 degrees C). Heat oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook, stirring occasionally for 2 minutes.
  • Add the chopped garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently for 1 minute. Remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside.
  • Place the ground turkey in a medium-sized bowl. Add the seasoned vegetables, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, Parmesan cheese, egg, and breadcrumbs to the bowl. Using a large spoon, mix the meat and all of the ingredients together until fully combined.
  • Shape the meatloaf into an oval and transfer it to a small lightly greased baking dish. Bake for 30 minutes.
  • Remove the turkey meatloaf from the oven. In a small bowl, stir together ketchup and brown sugar. Spoon over the top of the meatloaf and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
  • Remove the meatloaf from the oven, cover, and let the meat rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Expert Tips
  • Be sure to cook the vegetables before adding them to the ground turkey. It might be tempting to just toss the onions, garlic, and spices into the meatloaf mixture - but don't. Take a few minutes and sauté the vegetables, they will add more flavor and moisture to the meat.
  • Don't overmix the meatloaf mixture. Otherwise, the meatloaf won't turn out as tender.
  • Leave a little room in the baking dish or pan when baking the meatloaf. I use a 4x6-inch or a 5-inch baking dish. For best results, use a baking dish that comfortably holds the meatloaf. You could even use a small sheet pan. Giving the turkey meatloaf some space helps the edges caramelize nicely.
  • Don't forget the glaze. I like to use a combination of ketchup and brown sugar for my turkey meatloaf glaze. I love the sweet and tart flavor. For a sweeter sauce, feel free to add a bit more brown sugar. If you prefer a more tangy flavor, simply reduce the amount of brown sugar. You can also use honey, molasses, maple syrup, or agave nectar instead of brown sugar. Barbecue sauce also makes a great meatloaf topping, feel free to use your favorite sauce instead.
  • Let the turkey meatloaf rest after taking it out of the oven. Tent it with a sheet of foil to keep the meatloaf hot before slicing. This helps the loaf set up for easier slicing and locks in the delicious juices.
Nutrition Facts
Mini Turkey Meatloaf
Amount Per Serving (1 serving)
Calories 638 Calories from Fat 216
% Daily Value*
Fat 24g37%
Saturated Fat 9g56%
Trans Fat 1g
Polyunsaturated Fat 8g
Monounsaturated Fat 18g
Cholesterol 321mg107%
Sodium 1857mg81%
Potassium 878mg25%
Carbohydrates 48g16%
Fiber 4g17%
Sugar 25g28%
Protein 48g96%
Vitamin A 827IU17%
Vitamin C 10mg12%
Calcium 304mg30%
Iron 6mg33%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.

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About Joanie Zisk

Joanie Zisk is the creator of OneDishKitchen.com, the number one go-to site for single serving recipes. The aim of One Dish Kitchen is to inspire individuals with access to single serving recipes that will enable them to enjoy the preparation of a meal that will nourish both body and soul. Her website is filled with hundreds of easy, flavorful recipes that are tailored for those cooking for one. Joanie is the author of "The Ultimate Cooking For One Cookbook" and her recipes and food photography have been featured in various publications including, TODAY.com, Huffington Post, Real Simple, Self.com,Women’s Day, Buzzfeed, and others. Come say hello and follow Joanie on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Robert De Montmorency says

    May 03, 2022 at 12:58 pm

    I have found by using your website over the past three months, I have found ways to reduce food costs, and make delicious meals, bread and desserts for my self and grandkids when they come over. I have even recommended your website to others.

    Reply
    • Joanie Zisk says

      May 04, 2022 at 9:14 am

      Thank you so much, Robert. I'm so happy to know our recipes are helpful to you.

      Reply
  2. MaryAnn Avon says

    February 04, 2022 at 7:55 pm

    Excellent recipe!! Delicious Dinner for Two!

    Reply

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