When you think of classic comfort food, meatloaf almost always comes to mind. But imagine giving this beloved dish a holiday-inspired makeover by blending it with the rich, savory flavors of turkey stuffing. That’s exactly what this Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf delivers—a hearty, flavorful meal that combines juicy ground turkey with seasoned stuffing mix, herbs, and a hint of sweetness, creating a dish that feels like Thanksgiving dinner any night of the week.
Moist on the inside, perfectly seasoned, and packed with flavor, this recipe is a favorite for families who want something comforting yet unique. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, and it’s just as good for a weeknight dinner as it is for impressing guests.
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Ingredients & Their Roles
2 lbs ground turkey – Lean yet tender, it forms the base of the meatloaf while soaking up all the delicious seasonings.
1 box stuffing mix (6 oz, like Stove Top) – Adds bold seasoning, herbs, and texture that makes this meatloaf stand out.
1 cup chicken broth – Hydrates the stuffing, keeping the meatloaf moist and flavorful.
2 large eggs – Bind the ingredients together for the perfect loaf structure.
1 medium onion, finely chopped – Adds natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Brings aromatic richness and enhances the savory notes.
1 tsp dried sage – A classic stuffing herb that ties the flavors together beautifully.
1 tsp dried thyme – Adds earthy balance to the turkey’s mild flavor.
½ tsp black pepper – Rounds out the seasonings with a little bite.
½ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping) – Adds tangy sweetness and keeps the loaf moist.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the stuffing mix. In a large bowl, combine the stuffing mix and chicken broth. Let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
3. Sauté the aromatics. In a skillet, cook onion and garlic over medium heat until softened and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. Let cool slightly.
4. Mix the meatloaf base. Add the ground turkey, eggs, sautéed onion/garlic, sage, thyme, pepper, and ketchup into the bowl with stuffing. Mix gently with your hands until just combined—do not overmix.
5. Shape the loaf. Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan, pressing lightly to form a loaf. Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top for a glossy finish.
6. Bake. Place in the oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Rest before slicing. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to lock in juices.
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Why This Recipe is Loved
This Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf has become a go-to for families because it combines the savory flavors of stuffing with the comforting heartiness of meatloaf. The stuffing mix simplifies prep while infusing the dish with holiday-style seasoning, making every bite taste rich and nostalgic.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Meatloaf
Don’t overmix. Gently combine the ingredients to avoid a dense texture.
Use a thermometer. Ensure the loaf reaches 165°F internally for food safety and perfect doneness.
Resting is key. Allowing the loaf to sit after baking prevents crumbling and locks in moisture.
Make it ahead. This dish can be prepped the night before and baked fresh the next day.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair this Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf with:
Mashed potatoes and a drizzle of gravy for a classic comfort combo.
Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans for balance.
Cranberry sauce on the side for a festive, Thanksgiving-inspired touch.
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette to lighten the meal.
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Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a meal that’s easy, delicious, and unforgettable, this Turkey Stuffing Meatloaf is the answer. It’s the perfect marriage of weeknight simplicity and holiday-inspired flavor. With minimal prep, budget-friendly in
gredients, and unbeatable taste, this recipe proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated.
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