Description
This Ground Turkey Meatloaf recipe is a healthy and flavorful twist on the classic meatloaf, cooked to perfection in an air fryer. Featuring ground turkey blended with fresh onions, dried cranberries, aromatic herbs, and a tangy cranberry glaze, this easy-to-make dish is ideal for a nutritious family meal with a moist, sweet, and savory balance.
Ingredients
Meatloaf Mixture
- 16 ounces ground turkey (1 pound / 453.59 grams)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh yellow onion (1 medium)
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose cream
- 1 medium egg
- 1/4 teaspoon granulated garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon rubbed sage
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (add more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper (add more to taste)
Cranberry Sauce Glaze
- 250 grams whole cranberry sauce
- 3 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (191°C) and set the timer for 45 minutes to prepare for cooking the meatloaf.
- Prepare Breadcrumbs Mixture: In a bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the all-purpose cream, mixing well to allow the breadcrumbs to absorb the moisture.
- Mix Cranberry Sauce Glaze: In a separate bowl, stir together the whole cranberry sauce and ketchup until evenly combined. Add the two sprigs of fresh rosemary and cover with the sauce to infuse flavor.
- Combine Dried Herbs: In a small saucer, mix the dried rosemary, dried thyme, and rubbed sage to create the herb seasoning blend.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients Part 1: In a large shallow bowl, add the ground turkey, chopped onions, dried cranberries, breadcrumb mixture, half of the dried herb blend, kosher salt, and black pepper. Lightly combine the ingredients without overworking the meat.
- Add Egg and Remaining Herbs: In a separate bowl, beat the egg and pour it over the meatloaf mixture along with the remaining dried herbs. Gently mix all the ingredients together until just combined, careful not to over-mix to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Line the air fryer tray with parchment paper, then place the meatloaf mixture diagonally on top and shape it into your desired loaf form.
- Position in Air Fryer (Oven Style): If using an air fryer oven, gently insert the tray into the middle cooking chamber, near the rotisserie catch.
- Position in Air Fryer (Basket Style): If using an air fryer with a basket, place the parchment paper and shaped meatloaf mixture in the basket.
- Start Air Frying: Air fry the meatloaf at 375°F (191°C) for the first 10 minutes.
- Glaze First Half: After 10 minutes, spread half of the cranberry sauce glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Continue Cooking: Lower the air fryer temperature to 350°F (177°C) and air fry the glazed meatloaf for an additional 20 to 25 minutes.
- Glaze Final Layer: Spread the remaining cranberry sauce glaze over the meatloaf for the last 10 minutes of cooking. Reduce the temperature to 333°F (167°C) and continue to air fry until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest: Remove the meatloaf from the air fryer and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing to retain juices and enhance flavor.
Notes
- Do not over-mix the meatloaf mixture to maintain a tender texture.
- Use a food thermometer to ensure the meatloaf reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Line the air fryer tray or basket with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Fresh rosemary sprigs in the cranberry sauce add a subtle aromatic flavor but can be removed if preferred.
- This recipe can be doubled but may require longer cooking times depending on your air fryer capacity.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
