BBQ Turkey Meatloaf

Name: BBQ Turkey Meatloaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds ground turkey; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup finely chopped onion; 1/2 cup finely chopped bell pepper; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (plus more for topping); 1 egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Highlighted under: Homestyle Comfort Plates

I absolutely love making BBQ Turkey Meatloaf for my family because it’s a simple yet satisfying dish that never fails to impress. The combination of ground turkey and zesty barbecue sauce creates a juicy meatloaf that’s both flavorful and a bit of a nostalgia trip for comfort food lovers. Whether served with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad, this recipe always makes me feel right at home. Plus, it's a fun way to sneak in some extra veggies, making it a healthier choice for weeknight dinners.

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2026-01-24T12:02:27.848Z

When I first decided to make BBQ Turkey Meatloaf, I wanted to create a dish that would remind me of family gatherings. After several attempts at different flavor combinations, I found that mixing in some chopped bell peppers and onions really elevates the dish, adding both moisture and a burst of flavor. This turned out to be the secret I was missing!

I also love the versatility of this recipe. It’s easily adaptable—if you don’t have turkey, you can use chicken or even a mix of ground meats. The key is to make sure you don’t overmix; that’s how you keep the meatloaf moist and tender. This has become a staple in our weekly meal rotation!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy turkey with a smoky BBQ glaze
Comforting, family-friendly flavors
Easy to prepare for busy weeknights

Choosing the Right Turkey

When making BBQ Turkey Meatloaf, selecting the right type of ground turkey can greatly affect the flavor and moisture of your dish. I recommend using ground turkey with a bit more fat, such as 93% lean or even a mix of dark and light meat, to keep the meatloaf juicy. If you choose leaner ground turkey, consider adding a bit more BBQ sauce or a small amount of olive oil to prevent it from becoming dry during baking.

Ground turkey can be quite versatile, but it’s essential to ensure that it's fresh. Check the sell-by date when purchasing. If you're making this meatloaf ahead of time or have leftovers, consider using turkey that’s been freshly ground for the best texture and taste. This can also help the meatloaf retain its shape while baking.

Tips for Flavorful Additions

The base ingredients of this meatloaf already provide a great flavor, but you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. Adding chopped carrots or zucchini can enhance the nutrition profile and add a subtle sweetness. Just make sure to finely dice any additional vegetables to ensure even cooking and a cohesive texture, as larger chunks can affect the shape of your meatloaf.

Herbs and spices also play a critical role in elevating the taste of your BBQ Turkey Meatloaf. Consider incorporating a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat. Additionally, feel free to experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to introduce a fresh element. Just remember that with any additions, it’s crucial not to exceed the total volume of the mixture to maintain its structure.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds ground turkey
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1/2 cup finely chopped bell pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup BBQ sauce (plus more for topping)
1 egg, beaten
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the meatloaf:

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, bell pepper, garlic, BBQ sauce, beaten egg, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Shape and Bake

Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Brush additional BBQ sauce on top and bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Rest and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with additional BBQ sauce on the side.

Pro Tips

For a bit of extra flavor, you can add shredded cheese to the meat mixture or use a variety of spices to suit your taste. Also, if you prefer a glaze, mix a bit of brown sugar into your BBQ sauce for a sweet topping.

Storage and Reheating

This BBQ Turkey Meatloaf can be a fantastic meal prep option. Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. You can also freeze individual slices for up to three months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to keep them fresh. When you're ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

For reheating, I recommend placing slices in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, but be careful not to overcook them, as this could lead to an undesirably tough texture.

Serving Suggestions

This BBQ Turkey Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with classic sides. My favorite is a buttery mashed potato with a hint of garlic to complement the meatloaf's smokiness. A fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the dish. Consider adding a sprinkle of chopped green onions or fresh parsley on top of the meatloaf before serving to enhance its visual appeal.

For a fun twist, try serving the sliced meatloaf on slider buns for a tasty sandwich option, adding additional BBQ sauce and a slice of cheese for extra flavor. This makes for an excellent lunch or casual dinner that feels both comforting and exciting at the same time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use lean ground beef instead of turkey?

Yes, you can substitute lean ground beef for turkey, but it may result in a richer flavor.

→ What sides go well with BBQ meatloaf?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad make excellent sides for BBQ meatloaf.

→ Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients and shape the meatloaf in advance, then store it in the fridge until you're ready to bake.

→ How can I ensure my meatloaf stays moist?

Avoid overmixing the meatloaf mixture, and consider adding grated vegetables or additional BBQ sauce for moisture.