Tasty Turkey Meatloaf: Crock-Pot Cooking

how to cook turkey meatloaf in crock pot

Turkey meatloaf is a delicious, comforting meal that can be easily prepared in a crockpot with minimal prep time. It is a convenient dish that can be made ahead of time, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With just 10 to 25 minutes of preparation, you can combine all the ingredients, form them into a loaf, and let your slow cooker do the rest. This foolproof recipe is a family favourite that yields tender and juicy meatloaf every time. It is also versatile, allowing for customisations like adding vegetables or using gluten-free alternatives. So, get your crockpot ready and enjoy the mouthwatering aroma of turkey meatloaf cooking slowly to perfection!

Characteristics Values
Prep time 10-25 minutes
Cook time 3-8 hours
Cook temperature 160-175°F
Ingredients Ground turkey, breadcrumbs, broth or milk, eggs, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, minced onion, olive oil, mushrooms, Italian herbs, chicken broth, carrots, zucchini, red pepper flakes, sriracha, chili sauce, gluten-free breadcrumbs, oats
Nutrition 245kcal, 13g carbohydrates, 24g protein, 11g fat, 3g saturated fat, 131mg cholesterol, 705mg sodium, 384mg potassium, 1g fiber, 8g sugar, 350IU vitamin A, 3mg vitamin C, 61mg calcium, 2mg iron
Storage Fridge (3-4 days), freezer (3 months)

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Prep and cook time: 10 minutes to prepare, 3-8 hours to cook

Cooking Turkey Meatloaf in a Crock Pot

Ingredients

  • Ground turkey
  • Eggs
  • Bread crumbs
  • Ketchup
  • Onion
  • Seasoning (salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, etc.)
  • Parsley (optional)
  • Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • Milk (optional)
  • Broth (optional)
  • Vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and celery (optional)

Instructions:

Preparing turkey meatloaf in a crock pot or slow cooker is easy and convenient, with just 10 minutes of prep time and 3-8 hours of cooking time. Here's a step-by-step guide:

  • Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl. Mix until everything is incorporated, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense and tough.
  • Form the mixture into a loaf shape that fits the size of your crock pot. You can also use a loaf pan that fits inside your crock pot or simply line the crock pot with parchment paper or foil.
  • Place the meatloaf in the crock pot and cover with a lid.
  • Set the crock pot to cook on low for 5-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The meatloaf is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 160-175°F.
  • Once cooked, transfer the meatloaf to a baking sheet lined with foil. Brush the remaining sauce or ketchup on top.
  • Place under the broiler for 1-2 minutes to form a crust. Keep a close eye on it to avoid over-browning.
  • Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips:

  • You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it into a loaf the night before. Refrigerate it for up to 12 hours before placing it in the crock pot to cook.
  • For a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free quick oats or breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
  • If you prefer a crispy crust, consider broiling or baking the meatloaf in an oven at 350°F for about 55 minutes after it's cooked in the crock pot.

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Ingredients: turkey, breadcrumbs, broth, eggs, parsley, ketchup, etc

To make a delicious turkey meatloaf in a crock pot, you'll need a variety of ingredients, including fresh produce, spices, and meat. Here's a detailed list of ingredients and some helpful tips:

Meat and Breadcrumbs:

  • Ground turkey: Opt for good-quality, lean ground turkey, preferably 93% lean. You can also use ground chicken as a substitute, but the texture will be slightly different.
  • Breadcrumbs: Italian seasoned breadcrumbs add extra flavour. If you only have plain breadcrumbs, you can increase the amount of seasoning. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or old-fashioned oats, which absorb moisture and keep the texture soft.

Broth and Eggs:

  • Broth: Chicken broth adds flavour and moisture to the meatloaf. You can also use milk as a substitute.
  • Eggs: These act as a binding agent, helping to hold the meatloaf together.

Parsley and Ketchup:

  • Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbal flavour. You can also use other herbs like Italian herbs or sage to enhance the flavour.
  • Ketchup: Ketchup is used both in the meatloaf mixture and as a glaze on top. It adds sweetness and a tangy flavour.

Additional Ingredients:

  • Vegetables: Shredded carrots, onions, zucchini, and cremini mushrooms add moisture, flavour, and bulk to the meatloaf.
  • Seasonings: Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper enhance the flavour. You can also use fresh garlic and onion, sautéed before adding to the mixture.
  • Spices: Red pepper flakes or chilli sauce add a spicy kick to the meatloaf. You can also experiment with other spices like ground sage or Aldi's Amazing Burger spice blend.

Remember to line your crock pot with parchment paper or foil for easy removal and to prevent sticking. With these ingredients and some creativity, you'll be well on your way to a mouth-watering turkey meatloaf!

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Cooking methods: Line crock pot, form loaf, cook on high/low

To cook a turkey meatloaf in a crock pot, you should first line your crock pot with parchment paper or foil. This will help you lift the loaf out at the end and makes for easier cleanup.

Next, combine the meat, breadcrumbs, broth or milk, eggs, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in a large bowl. You can also add in some vegetables such as shredded carrots, onions, and zucchini for extra moisture and nutrients. Just be sure not to overmix the meat—simply mix until everything is incorporated.

Now, form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the crock pot. You can also place the mixture into a loaf pan and then put the loaf pan into the crock pot.

Finally, cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 5-6 hours, or until the center of the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. If you don't have a temperature probe, you can use a meat thermometer to check.

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Temperature: Cook until internal temperature reaches 160-175°F

The temperature you cook your turkey meatloaf at in the crock pot is important to ensure it is cooked safely and to your desired level of doneness. The internal temperature of your meatloaf should reach at least 160°F, but can be cooked longer to an internal temperature of 175°F if you prefer a more well-done meatloaf.

To check the internal temperature of your meatloaf, use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meatloaf and ensure it is not touching any part of the crock pot. If you do not have a meat thermometer, you can estimate the temperature by gently probing the meatloaf with a knife. If the knife goes in easily and the meatloaf feels firm, it is likely done or close to being done.

The cooking time will depend on the size of your meatloaf and the temperature setting of your crock pot. A larger meatloaf will take longer to cook, and cooking on a low temperature setting will also increase the cooking time. For example, a two-pound meatloaf cooked on low may take around 6 hours, while a smaller meatloaf cooked on high may be done in 3-4 hours.

It is important to note that the cooking time and temperature can vary depending on your crock pot's specific characteristics and your desired level of doneness. Therefore, it is always a good idea to monitor the meatloaf's temperature and adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure it reaches your desired level of doneness without overcooking.

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Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days

To store your delicious crockpot turkey meatloaf, first let it cool at room temperature for no more than two hours. Then, wrap it tightly in aluminium foil or plastic wrap, or place it in an airtight container. Make sure it's sealed to maintain freshness and prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odours in the fridge.

Your meatloaf can be safely stored in the fridge at 40°F or less for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. To freeze, wrap the meatloaf tightly in freezer-safe wrap or foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Label it with the date and freeze for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen meatloaf, thaw it to room temperature first. If it was refrigerated, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Then, place it in a shallow baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 250 degrees Fahrenheit for around 20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave in one-minute intervals until heated through.

Frequently asked questions

It takes 5-6 hours on low heat or 3-4 hours on high heat.

The meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Line the crock pot with parchment paper or foil.

You will need ground turkey, breadcrumbs, broth or milk, eggs, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, garlic powder and onion powder.

Add red pepper flakes, sriracha or chilli sauce to the meatloaf sauce.

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