Turkey Meatloaf Muffins: The Ultimate Turkey Meatloaf Muffins Recipe
Introduction to Turkey Meatloaf Muffins
Turkey meatloaf muffins are a delightful twist on the classic meatloaf, offering all the comforting flavors you love in a convenient, portion-controlled format. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, these muffins are packed with protein and can be paired with a variety of sides, making them a versatile choice for any family dinner.
A Personal Story Behind My Turkey Meatloaf Muffins Journey
Growing up, my family often enjoyed traditional meatloaf for Sunday dinner. It was a dish filled with love and memories, bringing us together around the dinner table. As I started cooking for my own family, I wanted to recreate that same warmth but in a fun, modern way. That’s when I discovered turkey meatloaf muffins! Not only are they easy to make, but they also remind me of those cozy family gatherings, now with a healthier twist.
What Makes This Turkey Meatloaf Muffins Recipe Special?
These turkey meatloaf muffins stand out because they combine lean ground turkey with a medley of flavorful ingredients, ensuring each bite is juicy and satisfying. The use of Panko crumbs adds a delightful texture, while the melty cheese on top brings a comforting richness. Plus, they’re perfect for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome meal even on your busiest days!
The Full Turkey Meatloaf Muffins Recipe
Ingredients
- Cooking spray
- 1 1/2 pounds ground turkey
- 3/4 cup ketchup, divided
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
- 1 cup Panko crumbs
- 3/4 cup 2% milk
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3/4 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray 8 standard muffin cups with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, 1/2 cup of ketchup, diced onion, shredded cheese, Panko crumbs, milk, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, poultry seasoning, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed. This ensures that the flavors meld beautifully.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Evenly distribute the turkey mixture into the 8 muffin cups, mounding the mixture slightly on top. Brush the remaining 1/4 cup of ketchup over the tops for added flavor. Don’t be shy with the ketchup; it adds a nice glaze!
- Bake: Place the muffin tin on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting an instant-read thermometer into the center of a muffin; it should read 170°F (77°C). This step is crucial for ensuring that your meatloaf muffins are cooked through.
- Serve: Let the muffins cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the muffin tin. Enjoy your delicious turkey meatloaf muffins! They’re great on their own or served with your favorite side dishes.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Turkey Meatloaf Muffins
These turkey meatloaf muffins are incredibly versatile! Serve them alongside steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or even mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. If you’re looking to spice things up, consider adding chopped bell peppers or jalapeños to the mixture for an extra kick. You can also swap out the cheese for your favorite variety or try different herbs to customize the flavors. These muffins can be frozen, making them an excellent option for meal prep—simply reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Meatloaf Muffins
Can I use ground beef instead of turkey? Yes, you can substitute ground beef if you prefer a richer flavor. However, this will change the nutritional content of the dish.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Can I make these meatloaf muffins gluten-free? Absolutely! Just use gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
What’s the best way to reheat them? Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 200
- Servings: 8
Turkey Meatloaf Muffins
Equipment
- Oven Preheat to 350°F (175°C)
- Muffin tin 8 standard muffin cups
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds ground turkey
- 0.75 cup ketchup
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
- 1 cup Panko crumbs
- 0.75 cup 2% milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.75 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray 8 muffin cups with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, mix together ground turkey, 1/2 cup ketchup, diced onion, cheese, Panko crumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, poultry seasoning, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Distribute the mixture evenly into muffin cups, mounding slightly, and brush tops with remaining ketchup.
- Place the muffin tin on a baking sheet and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, checking for an internal temperature of 170°F (77°C).
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before removing from the muffin tin and serve warm.