Turkey Meatloaf with Cranberries

Name: Turkey Meatloaf with Cranberries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup fresh cranberries, chopped; 1/2 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 egg, beaten; 1/4 cup milk; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)

Highlighted under: Cozy Kitchen Recipes

I absolutely love making Turkey Meatloaf with Cranberries because it brings together the savory goodness of turkey with the delightful sweetness of cranberries. The combination creates a unique flavor that my family can't resist. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also makes the perfect meal for busy weeknights. When you slice into it, you'll enjoy a moist loaf that stays flavorful thanks to its ideal blend of spices and ingredients. Trust me, once you try this, you'll want to add it to your regular dinner rotation!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-23T22:18:29.579Z

When I first made this Turkey Meatloaf with Cranberries, I was experimenting with what I had in my kitchen. The cranberries were a last-minute addition, and I was pleasantly surprised at how they elevated the dish with their sweet-tart flavor. I make sure to chop the cranberries finely to distribute that burst of flavor throughout the meatloaf.

One important tip I learned is to allow the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring that each slice is perfectly moist. The combination of herbs and the natural sweetness of the cranberries transforms a simple meatloaf into something truly special!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory turkey keeps the meatloaf light and healthy
Cranberries add a burst of flavor and moisture
Great for meal prep or as leftovers for lunch

The Role of Turkey and Cranberries

The main ingredient, ground turkey, not only keeps this meatloaf light and healthy but also allows the flavors of the other ingredients to shine. Turkey has a mild flavor that blends beautifully with the tangy sweetness of cranberries, which helps to keep the dish moist and adds a burst of freshness. When choosing turkey, look for ground turkey breast for a leaner option, or a mix of white and dark meat for a richer flavor profile.

Cranberries are not just a seasonal addition; they serve a functional purpose in the meatloaf by enhancing both moisture and flavor. Fresh cranberries provide a slight tartness that balances the savory elements, while their bursting texture offers a delightful contrast in every bite. If fresh cranberries are not available, you can substitute them with dried cranberries, although they will add more sweetness, so consider reducing other sweet components accordingly.

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the right texture in a meatloaf is essential for a satisfying eating experience. Overmixing the ingredients can lead to a dense loaf, so mix gently until just combined to maintain a tender texture. Keep an eye on the moisture balance too—if your mixture feels too dry, adding another splash of milk or a tablespoon of water can help achieve a better consistency before shaping the loaf.

Using breadcrumbs is crucial as they act as a binding agent, absorbing moisture while adding structure. I recommend using plain breadcrumbs; if you can only find seasoned breadcrumbs, you might want to adjust the salt levels in the recipe. Keeping chunks of cranberries intact will also contribute to a lovely texture, allowing you to fully appreciate their burst of flavor with each slice.

Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
1/2 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg, beaten
1/4 cup milk
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a loaf pan by lightly greasing it.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, chopped cranberries, onions, garlic, the beaten egg, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until just combined.

Shape the Loaf

Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf, smoothing the top. Spread the ketchup evenly over the top.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Let it Rest

Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or using a mix of turkey and beef. You can also replace ketchup with a sweet chili sauce for a different glaze.

Storage and Leftovers

Once baked, allow your Turkey Meatloaf with Cranberries to cool completely before storing. Properly wrapped or stored in an airtight container, it can last in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes it a great candidate for meal prep, and I often make two loaves to ensure I have enough for future lunches or dinners.

If you're planning to freeze portions, slice the loaf into individual servings before wrapping each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to eat, you can reheat slices in the microwave or thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Turkey Meatloaf with Cranberries pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. I love serving it alongside mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. A fresh green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette can provide a great contrast to the savory loaf and balance the richness of the dish.

For a fun twist, consider slicing the meatloaf and placing it in a whole grain wrap with some greens and a smear of cranberry sauce for a delicious sandwich. This transforms leftovers into a satisfying lunch option that keeps the flavors vibrant and exciting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey with ground beef for a richer flavor.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this meatloaf?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatloaf or leftovers. Make sure to wrap it tightly and thaw it in the fridge before reheating.