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Lighter Classic Meatloaf with Easy Brown Sugar Glaze

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A lighter, healthier version of classic meatloaf made with lean ground turkey and a sweet, sticky brown sugar glaze. It’s juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs lean ground turkey (93/7)
  • 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1 medium yellow onion, grated
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the long sides.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together all glaze ingredients: 1/2 cup ketchup, 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Set aside.
  3. Peel the onion and grate it using the large holes of a box grater over a bowl. Do not drain the liquid. You should have about 1/2 cup.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, grated onion with its juices, rolled oats, beaten eggs, 1/4 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and optional parsley.
  5. Using your hands, gently mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and gently press into an even shape, avoiding air pockets. Do not pack too firmly.
  7. Pour about half of the glaze over the top and spread evenly, letting it drip down the sides. Reserve the remaining glaze.
  8. Place the loaf pan on a baking sheet and bake for 45 minutes.
  9. After 45 minutes, remove from oven and spoon the remaining glaze over the top. Return to oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  10. Let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Use the parchment paper handles to lift it out, then slice and serve.

Notes

Don’t skip the rest time after baking—it ensures juicy slices. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overbaking. Grating the onion (not chopping) adds moisture and prevents raw onion bits. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes before shaping to allow oats to absorb moisture. Line the pan with parchment for easy removal. Double the glaze if you want extra for serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatloaf, lighter meatloaf, turkey meatloaf, brown sugar glaze, healthy meatloaf, easy meatloaf, comfort food

Find it online: https://cookyep.com/lighter-classic-meatloaf-with-easy-brown-sugar-glaze/