Savory Sun-Dried Tomato Turkey Loaves
Indulge in these Savory Sun-Dried Tomato Turkey Loaves, a delightful twist on traditional meatloaf that elevates your dinner table with vibrant flavors and a healthier twist. Crafted from lean ground turkey and enhanced with the rich, tangy goodness of sun-dried tomatoes, these mini loaves are a feast for the eyes and the palate. With the aromatic infusion of fresh thyme and sage, complemented by the creamy texture of parmesan cheese, each bite is a celebration of taste. Easy to prepare without the need for mini loaf pans, these hand-formed loaves are baked to perfection on a simple baking sheet, making them not just delicious, but also incredibly convenient. Enjoy a lighter yet satisfying meal that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Sun-dried tomatoes
1/2 cup (not oil-packed, chopped)
Boiling water
1/4 cup (for soaking tomatoes)
Extra-lean ground turkey
1 lb (raw)
Old fashioned oats
1/2 cup (dry)
Freshly shredded parmesan cheese
1/2 cup (shredded)
Eggs
2 (beaten)
Medium onion
1 (diced)
Fresh thyme
1 tablespoon (chopped)
Fresh ground pepper
1 teaspoon (to taste)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
Fresh sage leaves
8 large (for garnish)
Extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon (for drizzling)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
3
In a small bowl, combine sun-dried tomatoes and boiling water. Cover and let them sit for 5 minutes to soften.
4
Once softened, drain the tomatoes and allow them to cool slightly. Squeeze out any excess moisture and chop them finely.
5
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, ground turkey, oats, parmesan cheese, eggs, diced onion, fresh thyme, ground pepper, and salt. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a tender texture.
6
Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Using your hands, gently shape each portion into a loaf shape.
7
Place the formed loaves on the lined baking sheet. Take two fresh sage leaves and press them onto the top of each loaf for added flavor and presentation.
8
Drizzle olive oil over the loaves to enhance their richness and help them brown.
9
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 170°F (76°C) and the loaves are cooked through. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
10
Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Sun-Dried Tomato Turkey Loaves?
They are a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional meatloaf made with lean ground turkey, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs.
What is the main protein used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 1 lb of extra-lean ground turkey as the main protein source.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to produce 4 individual servings.
Do I need a mini loaf pan for these turkey loaves?
No, these are hand-formed loaves that can be baked directly on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
What is the required oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How do I prepare the sun-dried tomatoes?
Soak the tomatoes in boiling water for 5 minutes, drain, squeeze out excess moisture, and chop them finely.
Can I use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes?
The recipe specifies not oil-packed tomatoes; if using oil-packed, ensure they are thoroughly drained and dried.
What type of oats should be used?
Use 1/2 cup of dry old fashioned oats.
Why are oats included in the turkey loaves?
Oats act as a binder and help maintain moisture in the lean ground turkey.
What kind of cheese is added to the mixture?
The recipe includes 1/2 cup of freshly shredded parmesan cheese.
How many eggs are needed?
Two beaten eggs are required to help bind the ingredients together.
How do I prevent the loaves from sticking to the pan?
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
How long do the sun-dried tomatoes need to soak?
They should soak in boiling water for approximately 5 minutes to soften.
Which fresh herbs are used for flavoring?
The recipe uses fresh thyme inside the loaves and fresh sage leaves for garnish.
How do I shape the loaves?
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and use your hands to gently shape each into a loaf.
What is the target internal temperature for doneness?
The loaves should reach an internal temperature of 170°F (76°C).
How long is the baking time?
The loaves take approximately 25 to 30 minutes to bake.
What is the purpose of the sage leaves?
Two large sage leaves are pressed onto the top of each loaf for added flavor and visual presentation.
Can I substitute ground beef for turkey?
While the recipe specifies turkey, ground beef could be used, though it will change the nutritional profile and potentially the cooking time.
Is this recipe considered a healthy meal option?
Yes, it uses lean turkey, oats, and fresh ingredients to provide a lighter version of traditional comfort food.
How many loaves should I form?
The mixture should be divided and formed into four equal mini loaves.
Should I overmix the turkey mixture?
No, you should gently combine the ingredients to ensure the loaves maintain a tender texture.
Is resting the loaves after baking necessary?
Yes, let the loaves rest for a few minutes after taking them out of the oven to help them retain their juices.
Why is olive oil drizzled over the loaves?
The olive oil enhances the richness of the turkey and helps the loaves brown while baking.
Can I use quick oats instead of old fashioned oats?
While the recipe calls for old fashioned oats, quick oats can generally be substituted as a binder.
What size onion should be used?
The recipe requires one medium-sized onion, finely diced.
How much fresh thyme is used?
Use 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh thyme.
Are salt and pepper included in the seasonings?
Yes, it uses 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of fresh ground pepper, both to taste.
How do I know when the loaves are done?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure they have reached the safe internal temperature of 170°F.
Are these loaves easy to prepare?
Yes, the recipe involves simple mixing and hand-shaping, making it convenient for weeknight dinners.