Quick Ground Turkey Meatloaf Muffins

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I’ve always loved the comfort and nostalgia of a good meatloaf, but let’s be honest — sometimes the whole loaf is just too much. That’s exactly why I started making these Quick Ground Turkey Meatloaf Muffins. They’re packed with all the flavor of a traditional meatloaf but in a fun, fast, and portion-friendly way. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, these mini meatloaves are made with lean ground turkey, baked in a muffin tin, and topped with tangy marinara and melted cheese for a comforting finish.

These muffins aren’t just cute — they’re a lifesaver when I need a wholesome dinner in under 30 minutes. The texture stays moist, the flavor is rich, and they reheat like a dream. Plus, they’re naturally high in protein and kid-approved. Whether you’re feeding a family or just trying to simplify your weekly meals, this recipe hits the mark in both taste and convenience.

Why You’ll Love This Quick Ground Turkey Meatloaf Muffins

• They cook in half the time of traditional meatloaf
• Made with lean ground turkey for a healthier twist
• Ideal for portion control and meal prep
• Freezer-friendly and great for leftovers
• That cheesy, saucy topping is impossible to resist

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What Kind of Ground Turkey Should I Use?

I’ve found that using 93% lean ground turkey gives you the perfect balance between flavor and moisture. Anything leaner tends to dry out a bit in the oven, while fattier blends can get a little greasy. Look for fresh ground turkey that’s pink and firm — avoid anything that looks watery or mushy.

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Options for Substitutions

You can easily tweak this recipe to match your tastes or dietary needs:

• Ground meat: Swap turkey for lean ground beef, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative.
• Breadcrumbs: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or rolled oats for a wheat-free version.
• Cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully, but you can sub with provolone, cheddar, or even dairy-free cheese.
• Marinara sauce: Use any tomato-based pasta sauce, or try BBQ sauce for a tangy twist.
• Egg: For an egg-free version, use a flax egg or skip it and add a tablespoon of olive oil to help bind the mix.

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Ingredients for Quick Ground Turkey Meatloaf Muffins

Ground Turkey (93% lean) – This is the star of the dish, offering a healthy, protein-packed base without being too dry.

Breadcrumbs – These help bind the meatloaf mixture and keep the texture light. You can use plain, Italian-seasoned, or even panko.

Egg – Acts as a binder to hold everything together and provide a soft, tender bite.

Onion (finely chopped) – Adds moisture, flavor, and a slight sweetness to balance the savory meat.

Garlic (minced) – Infuses the muffins with bold, aromatic flavor.

Worcestershire Sauce – Adds depth and umami that elevates the entire dish.

Italian Seasoning – A perfect blend of herbs to season the meat evenly.

Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance and balance all other flavors.

Marinara Sauce – Spoon this over the top for that tangy, comforting tomato layer.

Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Melts into a bubbly, golden topping that makes these irresistible.

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Step 1: Prep the Oven and Muffin Tin

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin or line with silicone baking cups to prevent sticking and make clean-up easier.

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Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture tender.

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Step 3: Portion the Mixture

Divide the mixture evenly among the 12 muffin cups. Press the mixture down lightly into each cup to form a rounded top, like a mini meatloaf.

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Step 4: Add Sauce and Bake

Spoon a tablespoon of marinara sauce over each meatloaf muffin. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

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Step 5: Add Cheese and Broil

Remove the muffin tin from the oven and sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top of each muffin. Return to the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.

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Step 6: Let Them Rest

Allow the muffins to rest in the pan for about 5 minutes before carefully removing them. This helps them set and makes lifting them easier.

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Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired. These muffins are perfect on their own or alongside your favorite sides.

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How Long to Prepare Quick Ground Turkey Meatloaf Muffins

Prep Time: You’ll need about 15 minutes to get everything ready — that includes chopping the onion and garlic, mixing the ingredients, and dividing the mixture into muffin cups. It’s quick and doesn’t require any special equipment beyond a muffin tin and a mixing bowl.

Cook Time: These muffins bake in just 20-22 minutes, plus a couple of extra minutes under the broiler to melt the cheese. That puts the total cooking time under 30 minutes, making them perfect for weeknights or quick lunch prep.

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Tips for Perfect Quick Ground Turkey Meatloaf Muffins

• Don’t overmix the meat mixture — it can make the muffins tough.
• Use an ice cream scoop or measuring cup to portion evenly and ensure even cooking.
• Finely chop your onion and garlic to avoid uneven bites.
• Always check internal temperature with a thermometer — 165°F is your target.
• Resting after baking helps them hold shape when removing from the tin.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using extra-lean turkey: It can lead to dry muffins. Stick with 93% lean for best results.
• Skipping the egg or breadcrumbs: These are crucial for binding — don’t leave them out unless you’re using a tested substitute.
• Not greasing the muffin tin: Even with nonstick pans, these muffins can stick without a little oil or spray.
• Overloading with sauce: Too much marinara before baking can make the tops soggy.
• Skipping the rest period: Removing them too quickly from the pan can cause them to fall apart.

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What to Serve With Quick Ground Turkey Meatloaf Muffins?

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes pair perfectly with the savory meatloaf flavor.

2. Roasted Green Beans

Light, crisp, and healthy — a great way to add color and nutrients to your plate.

3. Macaroni and Cheese

For a comfort food combo, you can’t go wrong with cheesy pasta.

4. Simple Side Salad

Fresh greens with vinaigrette help cut through the richness of the meatloaf.

5. Dinner Rolls

Soft, fluffy rolls are perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce and cheese.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or until warmed through.

Freezer: These freeze beautifully! Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge.

Meal Prep Tip: Make a double batch and freeze half for quick dinners or lunches throughout the week.

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Estimated Nutrition (per muffin)

• Calories: ~180 kcal
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 360mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep turkey meatloaf muffins from drying out?

Use a mix with a bit of fat (93% lean is ideal) and don’t overbake. Adding the marinara and cheese helps lock in moisture too.

Can I make these in advance?

Absolutely! You can fully cook them and store in the fridge or freezer. They reheat beautifully.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

Try rolled oats, almond flour, crushed crackers, or gluten-free crumbs.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use two muffin tins or bake in batches. This recipe scales very well.

Are these kid-friendly?

Definitely! They’re the perfect size, easy to eat, and have that cheesy topping kids love.

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Conclusion

Quick Ground Turkey Meatloaf Muffins are everything I want in a weeknight dinner — fast, flavorful, and family-approved. They’re the kind of meal you can prep on a Sunday and enjoy all week without ever getting bored. Whether you’re serving them with classic mashed potatoes or a crisp side salad, these muffins are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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