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Pumpkin Spice Turkey Meatloaf

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This cozy pumpkin spice turkey meatloaf combines lean ground turkey, pumpkin puree, and warming autumn spices for a tender, flavorful, and healthy comfort food dinner. It’s easy to make, perfect for fall gatherings, and sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs ground turkey (preferably 93% lean)
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 3/4 cup old-fashioned oats (use gluten-free if needed)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 small yellow onion, grated (about 1/2 cup)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/4 tsp allspice
  • 1 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
  2. Grate the onion and mince the garlic. If adding extra veggies (like carrot or zucchini), grate and squeeze out excess moisture.
  3. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, pumpkin puree, oats, eggs, grated onion, and minced garlic.
  4. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, allspice, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with clean hands or a sturdy spatula until just combined.
  5. Spoon the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and gently press in, smoothing the top. (Or shape into a loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet.)
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard. Spread half the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
  7. Bake for 40 minutes. Remove from oven and spread remaining glaze on top.
  8. Return to oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the loaf is firm and browned at the edges (total bake time: 55-60 minutes).
  9. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil for the last 15 minutes.
  10. Let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve thick slices with extra glaze and your favorite fall sides.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free oats or almond flour. Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep the loaf tender. Let the meatloaf rest before slicing for clean cuts. You can assemble the loaf a day ahead and bake when ready. Leftovers freeze well and are great in sandwiches or salads.

Nutrition

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