Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf

This Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf is a comforting and flavorful twist on traditional meatloaf, combining the savory goodness of herb-seasoned stuffing with lean ground turkey. Perfect for holiday meals or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is topped with a rich homemade gravy for an extra touch of indulgence.

📋 Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 4 cups herb-seasoned stuffing mix , divided
• 4 cups turkey stock , divided
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 1½ cups onion , finely diced
• 1 cup celery , finely diced
• 2 teaspoons fresh garlic , minced
• 1 tablespoon Bell’s Seasoning
• 4 large eggs , beaten
• 2 pounds ground turkey , 85% lean
• 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Gravy:

• 2 cups reserved turkey stock
• 3½ tablespoons butter
• 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon Kitchen Bouquet (optional, for color)
• Salt and pepper , to taste

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
2. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and lightly spray it with cooking spray for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine 3 cups of stuffing mix with 2 cups of turkey stock . Let the mixture soften for about 5–10 minutes while you prepare the vegetables.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

1. Melt 6 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat .
2. Add the onions , celery , and garlic , and cook until softened, about 5–7 minutes , stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the Bell’s Seasoning and remove from heat. Let the mixture cool slightly.

Step 4: Process Remaining Stuffing

1. Place the remaining 1 cup of stuffing mix in a food processor and pulse until it becomes fine crumbs. This will help bind the meatloaf together.

Step 5: Combine Meatloaf Ingredients

1. In the large bowl with the softened stuffing mixture, add the ground turkey , beaten eggs , kosher salt , and black pepper . Mix gently to combine.
2. Fold in the cooled vegetable mixture and the processed stuffing crumbs until evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.

Step 6: Shape and Bake the Meatloaf

1. Using wet hands to prevent sticking, shape the mixture into a loaf on the prepared sheet pan. Aim for an even shape to ensure even cooking.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 55–60 minutes , or until the internal temperature reaches 155°F (68°C) .
3. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meatloaf moist.

Step 7: Make the Gravy

1. While the meatloaf rests, prepare the gravy.
2. Melt 3½ tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat . Whisk in the flour and cook for 2–3 minutes , stirring constantly to create a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the reserved 2 cups of turkey stock , ensuring no lumps form. Add the Kitchen Bouquet for color, if desired.
4. Simmer the gravy, stirring frequently, until it thickens, about 5–7 minutes . Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 8: Serve

1. Slice the rested meatloaf and serve with the warm gravy drizzled over the top.
2. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful dish alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.

Tips for Success

• Binding Tip: The processed stuffing crumbs act as a binder to hold the meatloaf together. If you don’t have a food processor, you can crush the stuffing mix by hand in a resealable plastic bag.
• Lean Turkey: Use 85% lean ground turkey for a balance of moisture and flavor. Avoid using extra-lean turkey, as it can dry out during baking.
• Gravy Adjustment: If the gravy is too thick, thin it with additional turkey stock. If it’s too thin, simmer longer to reduce.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days . Reheat slices in the oven or microwave with a splash of stock or gravy to keep them moist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf brings the comforting flavors of Thanksgiving stuffing into a hearty meatloaf format. The herb-seasoned stuffing mix adds incredible depth of flavor, while the lean ground turkey keeps it light and healthy. Topped with a rich, homemade gravy, this dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Dive into this savory, satisfying dish and let it bring warmth to your table!

⏱ Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Resting Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: ~1 hour 45 minutes

🍽 Servings:

8 servings

🔥 Calories (Approximate):

~400 kcal per serving (varies based on portion size and gravy amount)