Master the art of smoked turkey meatloaf! Easy-to-follow recipe, bold flavors, and tips for a perfectly juicy, smoky dish every time. Try it today!
Course Main Course
Prep Time 20 minutesmins
Cook Time 3 hourshrs
Servings 6
Ingredients
Meatloaf:
2lbsground turkeypreferably a mix of light and dark meat
1cupbreadcrumbsor gluten-free substitute like almond flour or crushed GF crackers
2large eggs
1medium onionfinely diced
3clovesgarlicminced
½cupmilk
1tablespoonWorcestershire sauce
2teaspoonsmoked paprika
1teaspoondried thyme
1teaspoonkosher salt
½teaspoonblack pepper
Homemade Glaze:
½cupketchup
2tablespoonapple cider vinegar
2tablespoonbrown sugar
1tablespoonDijon mustard
1teaspoonsmoked paprika
Instructions
Prepare the Smoker
Preheat your smoker to 225°F. Add your choice of wood chips (apple or cherry are ideal for a subtle sweetness).
Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, milk, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Over-mixing can make the meatloaf dense.
Shape the Loaf
Form the mixture into a loaf shape on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Alternatively, use a loaf pan if you prefer a structured shape.
Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika. Set aside half for basting and the other half for serving.
Apply the Glaze
Brush a generous layer of glaze over the top of the meatloaf, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
Smoke the Meatloaf
Place the meatloaf directly on the smoker grates or leave it on the foil-lined baking sheet. Close the smoker lid and smoke for 2–3 hours or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Baste During Smoking
About halfway through cooking, brush another layer of glaze on the meatloaf to enhance the flavor and create a caramelized crust.
Rest the Meatloaf
Once the meatloaf reaches 160°F, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for 15 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.
Slice and Serve
Slice the meatloaf into even portions and serve with the remaining glaze on the side.