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As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, the comforting aroma of a home-cooked meal can evoke nostalgia and warmth. For many, meatloaf is a quintessential dish that embodies the essence of home-cooked comfort. It was a staple in my household, especially during the cooler months. My mother’s version, with its tender texture and robust flavors, was always a highlight of our family dinners. The secret ingredient? A tangy BBQ glaze that not only added a delightful layer of flavor but also created a beautiful caramelized crust on top.

Tangy BBQ Turkey Meatloaf

Discover the ultimate comfort food with a modern twist in this Tangy BBQ Turkey Meatloaf. Perfect for cozy family dinners, this healthy version uses lean ground turkey and a delightful BBQ glaze for a flavorful kick. It's easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or potlucks. With fresh ingredients and a simple preparation, you'll create a delicious meatloaf that brings everyone to the table. Explore the recipe now and elevate your mealtime!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb ground turkey

1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs

1/2 cup onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup carrots, shredded

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1 large egg

1/4 cup milk (any variety)

1/4 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for topping)

1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1 tsp smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tsp olive oil (for sautéing)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C) to create the perfect baking environment for your meatloaf.

    Sauté Vegetables: In a small skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and shredded carrots. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. Once done, remove from the heat and allow to cool slightly.

      Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, whole wheat breadcrumbs, sautéed vegetables, chopped parsley, egg, milk, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Gently stir with a wooden spoon or your hands until everything is well-mixed but take care not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.

        Shape the Loaf: Transfer the mixture into a baking dish or a lined loaf pan. With your hands, shape the mixture into a loaf, ensuring that the top and sides are evenly smoothed out. This helps it bake uniformly.

          Add BBQ Topping: Generously spread an additional 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce over the top of the shaped meatloaf. This will create a deliciously tangy glaze as it bakes.

            Bake the Meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You should see a beautifully caramelized and brown top.

              Let it Rest: Once the meatloaf is baked to perfection, carefully remove it from the oven and let it rest for approximately 10 minutes. This resting time allows the juices within the meatloaf to redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful slice.

                Serve: Slice the meatloaf and serve warm. Drizzle any remaining BBQ sauce on top for an extra punch of flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with sides like creamy mashed potatoes or vibrant steamed vegetables.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes

                    Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

                      Servings: 4-6

                        Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, serve the slices on a platter garnished with fresh parsley sprigs and extra BBQ sauce drizzled artistically around the dish.