Jamie Oliver Turkey Meatloaf Recipe: A Delicious Twist on a Classic

Behind Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Meatloaf

Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Meatloaf is a delicious and healthy twist on a classic comfort food. Inspired by his commitment to using fresh, wholesome ingredients, this recipe swaps out traditional ground beef for lean ground turkey, delivering a lighter, yet still satisfying meal.

This meatloaf is packed with flavor thanks to a blend of aromatic herbs and spices, and it’s incredibly moist thanks to the addition of finely chopped vegetables. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner option that’s both nutritious and easy to make.

Get ready to enjoy a meatloaf that’s good for you and your taste buds!

Jamie Oliver Turkey Meatloaf Recipe Card

This delightful twist on the classic meatloaf is a healthier alternative to traditional beef, packed with juicy turkey and flavorful spices.

• Servings: 4-6 people
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (20-25 minutes at 200°C / 400°F, then 25-30 minutes at 180°C / 350°F)

The perfect combination of flavors and textures will have you coming back for more. Try this Jamie Oliver Turkey Meatloaf Recipe tonight!

Key Ingredients: 500g / 1.1lb ground turkey, 1 onion, 2 cloves of garlic, 1 cup / 240g breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 1/2 cup / 120g grated cheddar cheese, 1 tablespoon tomato paste, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, salt, and pepper.

Get the full recipe and cooking instructions on our website. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Meatloaf

To make Jamie Oliver’s delicious turkey meatloaf, gather the following ingredients:

• 500 g / 1.1 lb ground turkey
• 1 large onion, finely chopped (approximately 250 g / 1 cup)
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced (about 6 g / 2 teaspoons)
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup / 120 g breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup / 120 g grated cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon / 15 g olive oil
• 1 teaspoon / 5 g dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon / 2 g salt
• 1/4 teaspoon / 1 g black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon / 1 g paprika
• Optional ingredients:
  • 1/4 cup / 30 g chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup / 30 g chopped fresh basil
  • 1-2 diced bell peppers (about 100 g / 3.5 oz each)

These ingredients will help create a flavorful and moist turkey meatloaf, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Preheat the oven to 180 °C / 350 °F before starting the preparation.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Meatloaf

This turkey meatloaf recipe is a healthy and flavorful twist on a classic comfort food. Follow these detailed instructions to create a delicious and satisfying meal.

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
   Grease a loaf pan with oil.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, grated carrot, chopped herbs (parsley, thyme, rosemary), garlic, eggs, and seasoning (salt and pepper).
3. Mix the ingredients thoroughly with a spoon until well combined.
4. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared loaf pan.
5. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the top of the meatloaf.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).
7. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Serve the turkey meatloaf with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, or roasted vegetables.

Pro Tips for Making the Perfect Turkey Meatloaf

Get the most out of your Jamie Oliver turkey meatloaf recipe with these expert tips and tricks.

Choose the Right Meat

• Opt for lean ground turkey (5-7% fat) for a moist and flavorful meatloaf.
• Avoid over-processing the meat, which can make it dense and dry.

Don’t Overmix the Batter

Mix wet and dry ingredients separately before gently combining them. Overmixing can lead to a tough meatloaf.

Temperature Control is Key

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) for a perfectly cooked meatloaf. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

1. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can cause the meatloaf to steam instead of brown.
2. Avoid opening the oven door too often, as this can disrupt the cooking process.

By following these pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a juicy and flavorful turkey meatloaf that’s sure to impress.

Substitutions and Replacements in Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Meatloaf Recipe

To accommodate various dietary needs, several ingredients in Jamie Oliver’s turkey meatloaf recipe can be substituted or replaced. For a gluten-free option, replace 120 g / 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs with an equal amount of gluten-free oats or almond meal.

• For a dairy-free alternative, swap 60 g / 1/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese with the same amount of nutritional yeast, which provides a similar nutty flavor.
• To reduce sodium, use 1/2 teaspoon of salt instead of 1 teaspoon, and omit 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper if using a high-sodium tomato sauce.
• For egg allergies, replace 1 large egg with 60 g / 1/4 cup of mashed banana or 15 g / 1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 30 ml / 2 tablespoons of water.

When making substitutions, note that flavor and texture may vary slightly. Bake the meatloaf at 180°C / 350°F for 45-50 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C / 165°F. Always check the ingredient labels to ensure the substitutions align with the desired dietary restrictions.

Variations on Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Meatloaf Recipe

Love Jamie Oliver’s turkey meatloaf but want to shake things up? Here are a few ideas to personalize your next batch.

Spice It Up

• Italian Flair: Add 1 teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon dried basil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture. Serve with a side of marinara sauce for a true Italian twist.
• Mexican Fiesta: Incorporate 1 teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon cumin, and ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika. Top with your favorite salsa and a dollop of sour cream before baking.

Topping Transformations

1. Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the meatloaf during the last 15 minutes of baking for a gooey, cheesy topping.
2. Cranberry Crunch: Combine ½ cup dried cranberries with ¼ cup chopped pecans and sprinkle over the meatloaf in the last 10 minutes of baking. The sweetness of the cranberries pairs beautifully with the savory turkey.

Presentation Play

Instead of shaping the meatloaf into a traditional loaf, try forming individual turkey meatloaves for a fun and unique presentation. Cooking time will remain the same, but adjust baking temperature to 180°C (350°F) to prevent overcooking.

Storing and Reheating Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Meatloaf

Once cooked, your turkey meatloaf is best stored in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and safety.

• Refrigerate the meatloaf within two hours of cooking, at a temperature of 4°C (39°F) or below.
• Store the meatloaf in an airtight container, such as a glass or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid.

Freezing the Turkey Meatloaf

For longer storage, you can freeze the meatloaf. This will help preserve its texture and flavor.

• Allow the meatloaf to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped meatloaf in a freezer-safe bag or container and store it at -18°C (0°F) or below.

Reheating the Turkey Meatloaf

To reheat the meatloaf, follow these steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Remove the meatloaf from the freezer and let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
3. Place the thawed meatloaf in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F).

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Meatloaf

Even with a trusted recipe like Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Meatloaf, issues can arise. To ensure a moist and flavorful dish, it’s essential to identify and address common problems.

Common Problems and Fixes:

• Dryness: This can occur when the meatloaf is overcooked or when the turkey is leaner than expected. To fix, cook the meatloaf at 180°C / 350°F for a shorter time, and make sure to not overmix the ingredients. Adding more moisture with 60 ml / 1/4 cup of ketchup or 15 g / 1 tablespoon of olive oil can also help.
• Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 74°C / 165°F. If the meatloaf is already cooked, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
• Underseasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning before cooking. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor. Mix well to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the 480 g / 1.1 lb turkey mixture.

By being aware of these potential issues and taking steps to prevent them, the result will be a delicious and satisfying turkey meatloaf, just like Jamie Oliver intended.

Nutritional Information for Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Meatloaf

This delicious turkey meatloaf is packed with flavor and protein, making it a satisfying and healthy meal option.

Serving Size: 1/6 of the meatloaf

Calories: 280 kcal

• Protein: 25 g
• Carbs: 15 g
• Fat: 12 g

This recipe is a good source of lean protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. It’s also relatively low in saturated fat and cholesterol.

Diet Tags: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Frequently Asked Questions about Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Meatloaf

Get answers to common questions about this delicious and healthy recipe.

Cooking Time and Temperature

Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Meatloaf is best cooked at 200°C (400°F) for 35-40 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). You can check the temperature with a meat thermometer.

Ingredient Substitutions

• For a gluten-free version, replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
• For a vegetarian option, replace the ground turkey with a plant-based ground meat substitute or a mixture of sautéed mushrooms and lentils.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Turkey Meatloaf with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also top it with a tangy ketchup glaze or a creamy mashed potato topping.

Storage and Reheating

Let the Turkey Meatloaf cool completely before refrigerating or freezing it. Reheat it in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes, or until it’s hot and steaming.

Key Takeaways from Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Meatloaf Recipe

This recipe stands out for its clever combination of ingredients and techniques. Essential ingredients include 500g / 1.1lb ground turkey, 120g / 1/2 cup finely chopped onion, and 60g / 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese.

• Preheat the oven to 200°C / 400°F for even cooking.
• Combine the ground turkey with egg, finely chopped onion, and grated cheese for a moist and flavorful mixture.
• Use a food processor to finely chop the onion and mix the ingredients efficiently.

Pro tips from Jamie Oliver’s recipe include not overmixing the meat mixture and letting it rest before slicing. This ensures the meatloaf stays juicy and holds its shape. By following these key takeaways, you’ll be able to create a delicious and satisfying turkey meatloaf that’s sure to impress.

A Few Notes on Jamie’s Turkey Meatloaf

Jamie Oliver’s turkey meatloaf recipe is a real winner in my book. It’s flavorful, moist, and surprisingly healthy compared to traditional beef meatloaf. I’ve made it countless times, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

One thing I love about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out the breadcrumbs for oats or crushed crackers for a different texture. And feel free to experiment with the herbs and spices! A teaspoon of smoked paprika adds a lovely depth of flavor, while a sprinkle of fresh thyme brings a bright, herbaceous note.

If you’re looking for a lighter option, try reducing the amount of oil or using a nonstick pan to avoid overcooking. And don’t be afraid to get creative with the glaze! A simple mixture of ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard is always delicious, but you can also try a balsamic glaze or a honey-mustard glaze for a more complex flavor profile.

No matter how you make it, Jamie’s turkey meatloaf is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Meatloaf Recipe

This turkey meatloaf recipe from Jamie Oliver is a game-changer for anyone looking for a healthier, flavorful alternative to traditional beef meatloaf. With its lean turkey and aromatic spices, this dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare and requires minimal cleanup. Whether you’re a meatloaf newbie or a seasoned chef, this recipe is a must-try. So, go ahead and give it a shot – your taste buds and waistline will thank you. And if you’re looking for more recipe inspiration, be sure to check out Jamie Oliver’s other tasty creations.