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.
đź“‹ 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
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
- Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and lightly spray it with cooking spray for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing Mixture
- 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
- Melt 6 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat .
- Add the onions , celery , and garlic , and cook until softened, about 5–7 minutes , stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the Bell’s Seasoning and remove from heat. Let the mixture cool slightly.
Step 4: Process Remaining Stuffing
- 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
- In the large bowl with the softened stuffing mixture, add the ground turkey , beaten eggs , kosher salt , and black pepper . Mix gently to combine.
- 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
- 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.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55–60 minutes , or until the internal temperature reaches 155°F (68°C) .
- 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
- While the meatloaf rests, prepare the gravy.
- 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.
- Gradually whisk in the reserved 2 cups of turkey stock , ensuring no lumps form. Add the Kitchen Bouquet for color, if desired.
- Simmer the gravy, stirring frequently, until it thickens, about 5–7 minutes . Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 8: Serve
- Slice the rested meatloaf and serve with the warm gravy drizzled over the top.
- 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)