Healthy Mini Turkey Meatloaf Recipe

These Healthy Mini Turkey Meatloaves are packed with lean protein, veggies, and a delicious sweet-and-savory glaze. Made in a muffin tin for individual portions, this lean meatloaf recipe is perfect for quick dinners, meal prep, or healthy eating. Whether you’re looking for mini turkey meatloaf recipes or a small batch meatloaf, this recipe is both nutritious and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Lean – Made with ground turkey, carrots, and applesauce for a lighter alternative to traditional meatloaf.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – These individual turkey meatloaves are great for make-ahead lunches and dinners.
• Kid-Friendly and Portion-Controlled – The mini size makes them easy to serve and enjoy without waste.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 carrot, grated
• 1 egg
• ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce (or Greek yogurt)
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Glaze:

• ¼ cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly grease a muffin tin or line it with parchment muffin cups.

2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

• In a large bowl, mix the ground turkey, breadcrumbs (or almond flour), diced onion, grated carrot, egg, applesauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
• Stir until just combined—do not overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.

3. Shape the Mini Meatloaves

• Divide the mixture evenly into the muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full.

4. Prepare the Glaze

• In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard.
• Brush a small amount over each mini meatloaf.

5. Bake

• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

6. Serve

• Let the meatloaves cool for a few minutes before removing them from the muffin tin.
• Serve with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or your favorite healthy side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 mini meatloaves
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Low-Carb Option – Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a mini meatloaf recipe healthy alternative.
• Spicy Glaze – Add ½ teaspoon of sriracha or cayenne pepper to the glaze for a kick.
• Cheesy Turkey Meatloaf – Mix in ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese for a rich, cheesy flavor.
• Pioneer Woman Meatloaf Patties Style – Shape them into small patties and pan-fry instead of baking.
• Dairy-Free Option – Use unsweetened almond milk or coconut yogurt in place of Greek yogurt or applesauce.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store leftover mini meatloaves in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing – Freeze individual portions in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating – Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 30-45 seconds.

FAQs

How do I keep turkey meatloaf from drying out?

Using applesauce, Greek yogurt, or Worcestershire sauce helps add moisture to the lean turkey.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.

What sides go well with mini turkey meatloaf?

Try roasted sweet potatoes, quinoa salad, or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal.

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes! Ground chicken works well as a substitute in this ground turkey mini meatloaf recipe.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I do with leftover meatloaf?

Use it for meatloaf sandwiches, crumble it into a salad, or serve it over zucchini noodles for a healthy twist.

How do I know when my turkey meatloaf is done?

Use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I make this into one large meatloaf instead of mini meatloaves?

Yes! Bake in a loaf pan at 375°F (190°C) for about 45-50 minutes.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The mild flavors and mini portions make it perfect for kids.

Can I make this without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute the egg with ¼ cup mashed potatoes or flaxseed meal mixed with water.

Conclusion

This Healthy Mini Turkey Meatloaf Recipe is a delicious, protein-packed dish perfect for quick dinners, meal prep, or portion-controlled meals. Whether you’re looking for mini turkey meatloaf recipes, a meatloaf with ground turkey, or a lean meatloaf recipe, this version is flavorful, moist, and incredibly easy to make. Serve it with your favorite sides for a well-balanced and satisfying meal!