Name: Turkey Meatloaf Muffins - Just 5 Ingredients
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 9 muffins
Ingredients: 1/2 cup oatmeal (or breadcrumbs); 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese (shredded); 1/4 cup red onion (diced); 1/3 cup salsa (plus about 3 Tablespoons to spoon over the tops (I used peach salsa!)); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 1/4 cup cilantro, optional (chopped); 1 pound ground turkey breast

Turkey Meatloaf Muffins get a zesty infusion of Mexican flavor with the addition of salsa and cheese..and, maybe cilantro!

It’s a variation of Turkey Burgers with Mango Chutney. Both of these recipes prove that healthy turkey meatloaf does not have to be boring and you don’t need a lot of ingredients either.

It’s also a sound strategy to combat “Practice is at 5:30…what’s for dinner?”

Just heat up a protein-packed “muffin” made with ground turkey and pair it with simple, healthy sides. It’s the same thinking that’s behind Gourmet Meatloaf and Buffalo Chicken Meatloaf Cups.

Make all of these recipes ahead of time and freeze them before or after cooking.

How to make Turkey Meatloaf Muffins

To make ground turkey meatloaf, combine oatmeal (or breadcrumbs,) shredded cheese, diced onion, salsa, salt, pepper and cilantro (if using) in a large bowl.

Tip: Combine all the other ingredients before adding the meat to ensure even distribution.

Next add ground turkey to the bowl and combine.

Tip: To avoid “tough” muffins, don’t handle and mix more than you have to!

Ingredients in Healthy Turkey Meatloaf Muffins

There are 5 basic ingredients in these muffins, not counting salt and pepper. Cilantro is optional because it’s controversial. I love it. Some people hate it. I get it!!!

Ground turkey breast – It’s leaner so we use it. Ground turkey will work too!
Salsa – the type of salsa used will completely transform the flavor of these turkey meatloaf muffins. I love Newman’s Own Peach Salsa.
Cheese – try Colby Jack, Monterey Jack or Cotija cheese.
Oatmeal – we make our turkey meatloaf with oats, the old fashioned kind. There’s no need to grind it, but you can. Or, use breadcrumbs.

This recipe is low in carbs, but I’ve seen crushed pork rinds used to make meatloaf no-carb. Check out Low-Carb Mini Meatloaf to see this technique in action.

How Long to Cook Turkey Meatloaf

Cook turkey meatloaf to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. We highly recommend using a meat thermometer to get it right (see our Amazon store.)

The length of time it will take to cook turkey meatloaf in a 350 degree F oven depends on the packaging. Make this recipe into muffins, a traditional loaf, mini loaves, burgers or meatballs.

It also depends upon the oven. Muffins cook quicker than a loaf, which is the main reason we love them. Bake turkey meatloaf muffins for 20 minutes, uncovered. Check to make sure they are cooked through.

If you opt for the regular-sized meatloaf, it will take about an hour.

How to Make Ahead and Freeze Ground Turkey Meatloaf Muffins

This brings me to exactly how these little muffins help with the 5:00 p.m. rush and meal planning.

Double or triple the recipe and freeze these individual “muffins” for a healthy, protein-packed main entree in minutes, which comes in handy for the chauffeur as well. They are portable!

Freeze uncooked turkey meatloaf in the tin it will bake in. Wrap the tin in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Be sure to label it.

For best results, use within 2 months of freezing. Defrost in the refrigerator and cook according to the directions.

Or, freeze the cooked turkey meatloaf and reheat in the microwave.

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5 from 2 votes